SMALLMOUTH BASS (Micropterus dolomieu)
ALIAS: Bronzeback, brownie, smallie, bronze bass
IDENTIFICATION: Elongate, compressed; back dark olive to brown, sides greenish yellow with bronze reflections, diffuse midlateral bars form dark mottlings. Mouth extends to eye. 16-18 pectoral soft rays; median fins olive; dorsal fins joined, 10 spines, 13-14 soft rays; 3 anal fin spines, 11 soft rays. Lateral line complete, 67-79 scales; 11-13 scale rows above lateral line, 20-23 below; scales on bases of soft dorsal and anal fins; 29-31 caudal peduncle scale rows.
DIET: Crayfish, small fish (such as chubs, sculpins, stonerollers, darters, and suckers), insects, and frogs.
HABITAT: Cool, clear streams with moderate to swift current over gravel and rocks; lakes and reservoirs.
SPAWNING: Early-March to mid-May when water temperatures are 55-65̊ F. Nests are constructed in 1 to 4’ of water on firm sand and gravel bottoms.
FISHING TIPS: Artificial lures and live baits such as crayfish and fathead minnows are popular for smallmouth bass in the late spring.
USE: Available East Slope Only; Call to Confirm
**MINIMUM: 25 FISH**