Casting a line for smallmouth bass is not just about the thrill of the catch; it’s about connecting with nature and discovering some of the best fishing spots the U.S. has to offer. Each location brings its own set of challenges and rewards, from the deep, crystal-clear waters of northern lakes to the bustling, flowing rivers that carve through rugged landscapes. I’ve had my share of days on the water, each one a new adventure, whether I’m navigating the quiet coves of a massive lake or wading through a swiftly moving stream. These places are more than just coordinates on a map; they’re where we anglers go to find peace, excitement, and maybe—if we’re lucky—the smallmouth of a lifetime. So grab your tackle box and your sense of adventure, because these waters are ready to show you what real fishing is all about.
Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River
Fishing Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River is like hitting the jackpot in the smallmouth bass world. Covering an impressive 7,320 square miles and stretching 743 miles, respectively, these waters are vast playgrounds for anglers like us.
Ever since round gobies entered the picture, the smallmouth here have been thriving like never before. I’ve had some of my best catches using Ned Rigs and Drop Shots around the shoals where these gobies hang out. Trust me, the size and fight of these bass can make any old fishing tale you’ve heard seem tame. And if you need proof, just check out the Bassmaster Elite scores—these waters demand over 100 pounds for a win.
Lake Erie
Lake Erie is a beast in its own right and a paradise for targeting trophy smallmouth. With its sprawling 9,940 square miles, it’s a massive arena for anglers. And those bass aren’t just numerous; they’re giants, with the lake record tipping scales at over 10 pounds. When I gear up for Erie, I’m all about the tube baits, especially snapped along those deep shelf lines—it’s a surefire way to stir up some big boys.
Erie’s size means these fish have room to roam and dodge the crowds, which is perfect for us fishing during the peak seasons. The gobies here? They’re like a double-edged sword—great for bass growth but tough on the spawn. But hey, it seems the smallmouth have adapted well, and the population is booming. Whether you’re launching from Buffalo, Erie, or Sandusky, you’re in for a treat. You’ll want to rig up with your best Ned Rig or Drop Shot, or toss a blade bait when the water’s chilly.
Mille Lacs Lake
Mille Lacs Lake in the Midwest might cover just 207 square miles, but don’t let its relatively small size fool you. This lake is a powerhouse when it comes to smallmouth bass fishing. thanks to the lake’s copious baitfish and expansive shallow waters. This unique environment allows the smallmouth population to thrive, with minimal pressure from anglers, giving these fish plenty of space to grow to impressive sizes.
If you’re planning a trip to Mille Lacs, consider focusing on the large boulders scattered in 10- to 20-foot depths off the bank. These spots offer prime ambush opportunities for smallmouth. From what I’ve gathered watching tournament coverage, a heavier ½-ounce to ¾-ounce chatterbait is key in these shallower sections. Cast near the boulders and get ready for action. The moment your bait deflects off a rock, a Mille Lacs smallmouth is likely to strike, offering a thrilling challenge to even the most seasoned anglers.
Cayuga Lake
Cayuga Lake, nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York, may seem small at 66 square miles, but it packs a serious punch in the bass fishing world. The lake’s deep waters and varied structure create perfect conditions for trophy smallmouth bass. Anglers here often find themselves quickly on schools of smallmouth that frequent the mid-lake’s rocky bottoms and deep grass lines, particularly near Ithaca. This setup not only promises exciting smallmouth action but also the delightful chance of landing a hefty largemouth bass for a satisfying mixed bag.
To effectively target these elusive smallmouth, I’ve found that nothing beats a drop shot when fishing the deeper sections, especially where rocks meet grass. However, don’t hesitate to switch it up with swimbaits, jigs, or Damiki rigs to see what the bass are hitting that day. Once you lock into what they’re biting, keep at it. Cayuga Lake is one of those special places where, with the right approach and a bit of local knowledge, you can experience some of the best bass fishing the Northeast has to offer.
Susquehanna River
The Susquehanna River stretches its welcoming waters across New York and Pennsylvania, offering diverse fishing experiences for every type of angler. Whether wading in the gravelly shallows of New York’s North Branch or cruising in a bass boat above Sunbury, Pennsylvania, this river is a prime spot for chasing smallmouth bass. With its mix of ledges, rocks, grass beds, and timber, the river provides abundant hiding spots for bronzebacks, making every fishing trip an exciting challenge.
With the best fishing in spring and late fall, expect to reel in 30 to 40 bass on a typical day, with the tantalizing possibility of landing a trophy—the New York Department of Environmental Conservation once confirmed a 7-pounder here. For baits, think tubes, stickbaits, and spinnerbaits to crankbaits; they’re all effective in these prolific waters.
Snake River
The Snake River, with its long and rugged expanse, offers an angler’s paradise through Idaho and Washington. From the placid waters of Brownlee Reservoir to the swift currents of Hells Canyon, this river is a testament to the variety of smallmouth bass habitats. Focus on a 10-mile stretch near Lewiston, Idaho, and Clarkston, Washington, for consistent catches of large bass, thanks to favorable water conditions and diverse cover.
Meanwhile, further upstream, the river requires a sturdy jet sled for navigation, but the rewards are worth it. Whether you’re after big trophy catches in spring or just a fun day of plentiful catches in summer, the Snake River offers something for every smallmouth enthusiast looking to connect with nature and enjoy some thrilling fishing.
Black River
Nestled in the White Mountains, two hours east of Phoenix, the Black River carves a path through ancient rock, creating a stunning backdrop that’s almost as breathtaking as the fishing. Stocked with bronzebacks six decades ago, this river has become a top spot for snagging sizable smallmouth bass. What sets the Black River apart isn’t just the fishing—it’s the elevation. At 4,000 to 6,500 feet, it’s among the highest smallmouth habitats in the nation.
Getting to the best spots along the Black requires a bit of adventure, with most areas accessible only by foot. Spanning over 70 miles, the river serves as a boundary between the San Carlos and White Mountain Apache reservations. You’ll need a tribal permit, available from the San Carlos side, to fish these waters. While nearby towns like Globe and Safford offer lodging, for the full experience, I recommend camping out by the river itself. It’s the kind of place where a day spent hiking and fishing deep in the Arizona wilderness can end with a campfire under the stars—just you, the pines, and the quiet splash of a tail in the moonlight.
New River
Flowing through Virginia and West Virginia, the New River is steeped in history and big catches. Despite its name, this is the world’s second-oldest river, renowned not just for its age but for its vibrant smallmouth bass fishing. Here, trophy seekers can chase the shadows of record-breaking bronzebacks, including the Virginia state record—an 8-pound, 1-ounce behemoth.
The New River Gorge National River area near Beckley, W. Va., offers not only spectacular Appalachian scenery but also equally impressive fishing. With several boat ramps provided by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, launching a float trip here comes highly recommended. Imagine drifting along this ancient river, where each cast beneath the towering cliffs could yield the next record-breaking smallmouth. It’s a place where every angler can find a story, and maybe, just maybe, a bass that will make history.
Lake St. Clair
Lake St. Clair, straddling Michigan and Ontario, is a true gem for any bass enthusiast. Imagine clear days where you can sight fish for smallmouth in shallow waters, picking out the larger trophies as they spawn. The lake spans 420 square miles with a cozy maximum depth of 25 feet, making every inch a prime spot for smallmouth action.
The clarity of the lake, thanks to zebra mussels, has transformed its ecology, allowing vegetation like milfoil and coontail to flourish deeper, creating perfect ambush points for bass. Techniques? Anything from spinnerbaits to suspending minnowbaits tossed erratically can stir up some action. And when things slow down, the trusty tube or a Texas rig can keep the bites coming. Whether it’s a brisk morning or a lazy summer afternoon, Lake St. Clair delivers unforgettable bass fishing experiences.
Sturgeon Bay
Nestled in Wisconsin’s Door County, Sturgeon Bay offers an iconic American smallmouth bass scene. With its 100-mile stretch peppered with rocky flats, reefs, and humps, it’s a smallmouth haven that’s visually breathtaking and equally prolific. Snagging a hundred bass in a day during peak season isn’t just possible, it’s expected. And we’re not talking small fry—multiple five-pounders are often part of the haul.
As you cast in these crystal-clear waters, it feels like every retrieve might pull in a smallmouth—or a bronze convoy, as locals might say. The best time to visit? Aim for June when the spawn is in full swing, or September for some top-notch crankbait action with both walleyes and smallmouths along rocky breaks. Sturgeon Bay isn’t just another fishing spot; it’s a dynamic ecosystem where every cast could yield the catch of a lifetime, under the vast skies of the north. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a casual caster, this bay promises a pure, thrilling connection with nature and some serious smallmouth bass.
*This article was created with the assistance of AI.
