Georgia wildlife
Smallmouth Bass
Micropterus dolomieu
Thrives in clear, rocky streams and reservoirs of north Georgia
See the Smallmouth Bass up close
Best months
Apr · May · Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep
Best fishing from late spring through early fall; check Georgia DNR fishing report for current conditions.
Where to look
Lake LanierLake Allatoona
Conservation status
Native only to Georgia's Tennessee River drainage; introduced (non-native) elsewhere in the state
Good to know
What is the best bait for smallmouth bass?
Crayfish imitations, spinnerbaits, and soft plastic jerkbaits work well.
Are smallmouth bass native to Georgia?
No, they were introduced and have established populations in several northern Georgia reservoirs.
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