The Species
About Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth bass are the scrappy cousin of the largemouth — smaller on average, but far more acrobatic fighters. A 3-pound smallmouth on light tackle feels like a 6-pound largemouth. They prefer cooler, clearer, harder-bottomed water than their largemouth cousins, which is why they're less common in our warm, weedy South Bay reservoirs.
In the South Bay, Coyote Lake is your best bet for smallmouth. They hold near the rocky structure along the dam and points. Coyote Creek is also worth targeting in cooler months when flows are good. Treat each smallmouth you land with care — they're a prized part of this fishery.
How to Catch Them
Rigs, Lures & Techniques
The #1 smallmouth technique. 6–10 lb fluorocarbon, small finesse worm, kept just off the bottom near rocky structure.
Small ElaZtech worm on a mushroom jig. Let it sit on the bottom — smallmouth will inhale it.
Classic smallmouth catcher. Drag it slowly across rocky bottoms, mimicking a crawfish.
Shallow-diving crankbaits in crawfish colors worked along rocky banks. Great in spring and fall.
A classic smallmouth technique. Steady retrieve through deeper pools and runs.
A crawfish-colored football jig dragged slowly over hard rocky bottom. Catches big smallmouth.
By Season
When to Target Them
Smallmouth spawn in shallower rocky areas in April–May. Highly aggressive biters near gravel and rocky banks.
Smallmouth suspend in deeper, cooler water. Drop shots in 12–20 ft near rocky structure are most productive.
Excellent fall bite as water cools. Crankbaits and tube baits in shallow rocky areas produce well.
Smallmouth are among the least active bass in cold water. Finesse rigs fished slowly are your only real option.
California Regulations
Rules to Know
- Minimum size: 12 inches (statewide, combined black bass limit)
- Daily bag limit: 5 fish combined largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass
- Open year-round — no seasonal closure for black bass in California
- Live bait prohibited at Santa Clara County reservoirs
- Santa Clara County reservoirs are catch-and-release only
- California Sport Fishing License required for anglers 16 and older
Always verify at CDFW.ca.gov.
Where to Find Them
