Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are pound-for-pound the hardest-fighting freshwater fish. They prefer clear, rocky water with moderate current and are known for blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. Jordanelle Reservoir and Flaming Gorge are Utah's top smallmouth destinations.
Top Techniques
Best Lures for Smallmouth Bass
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spring Lures
The most versatile smallmouth presentation. Fish a 2.75 inch TRD on a 1/6 oz mushroom head on rocky points in 6-15 feet. The buoyant ElaZtech material stands the tail up on the bottom.
Smallmouth simply cannot resist a well-presented jerkbait in clear water. The darting action mimics a wounded shad perfectly. Essential for Jordanelle and Flaming Gorge.
Product: Megabass Vision 110
Classic smallmouth bait that has been producing since the 1970s. Fish it on a 3/16 oz internal jig head dragged slowly on the bottom. Green pumpkin and smoke are top colors.
summer Lures
Summer smallmouth in clear Utah reservoirs go deep. A drop shot with a 4-inch finesse worm in 15-25 feet on main lake structure is the most reliable pattern from July through August.
Summer smallmouth go absolutely wild on topwater at first light. A Zara Spook or similar walking bait worked over the main lake points at sunrise produces some of the season's biggest fish.
fall Lures
Fall smallmouth stack on main lake points and humps chasing shad. A 1/2 oz blade bait jigged vertically in 15-30 feet produces trophy fish. Swedish Pimple and Heddon Sonar are classics.
winter Lures
Winter smallmouth are lethargic but will eat a suspending jerkbait worked painfully slowly. Pause 10-15 seconds between twitches on 6-8 lb fluorocarbon in the clearest water possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lures for Smallmouth Bass?
Top lures for Smallmouth Bass include: Drop Shot (4-inch Finesse Worm), Ned Rig (Z-Man TRD), Blade Bait (Jigging), Suspending Jerkbait, Megabass Vision 110 (Jerkbait).
Where can I catch Smallmouth Bass in Utah?
Good Utah lakes for Smallmouth Bass include: Jordanelle Reservoir, Deer Creek Reservoir, Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
What techniques work best for Smallmouth Bass?
Ned rig, Drop shot, Tube jig are among the most effective techniques.