Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass in Delaware are an introduced species that have established populations in select waterways. These bronze-colored fighters are known for being pound-for-pound the hardest fighting bass and often striking lures multiple times.
As a good natural indicator of healthy water quality, smallmouth bass are intolerant of pollution, making them excellent markers of stream health.
Scientific Name: Micropterus dolomieu
- Bronze-colored fighters are generally brown with dark brown vertical bands and distinctive red eyes.
- Delaware smallmouth are typically caught at lengths of less than 12 inches, though the state record stands at 4 pounds 15.5 ounces caught by Jerry Proffitt in 1989.
Fishing in Delaware
Delaware River
Lums Pond
Delaware Bay
Cohansey River
Leipsic River
Maurice River
Susquehanna River
Nantuxent Cove
Mispillion River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found in select waterways in Delaware, where their abundance is considered uncommon.
- Prefer rocky areas with good current flow.
Key Locations
- Brandywine Creek, lower White Clay Creek, lower Red Clay Creek, and the Christina River.
Specific Spots
- Lurk among woody debris, boulders, overhangs, and other structures in streams.
- Target rocky structures, current seams, and areas with woody debris or boulders.
- In moving water, target eddies, current breaks, and areas behind rocks where smallmouth ambush prey.
Smallmouth Bass FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Smallmouth Bass in Delaware?
Spinnerbaits, jigs, tube lures, and topwater lures that imitate fish and crayfish. Minnows and crayfish are proven live baits.
What flies work for Smallmouth Bass in Delaware?
Patterns that imitate crayfish, minnows, and aquatic insects - Clouser Deep Minnows in white, brown, and chartreuse bucktail are particularly effective. Other productive fly patterns include streamers, hellgrammite patterns for streams with good substrates, and beetle patterns during terrestrial seasons.
When is the best time to fish for Smallmouth Bass in Delaware?
The best time for smallmouth fishing in Delaware is late June through October, with prime action occurring during the Roaring 40s period when water temperatures climb from 40°F to 50°F in early spring.
How do you catch Smallmouth Bass in Delaware?
Target rocky structures, current seams, and areas with woody debris or boulders. In moving water, target eddies, current breaks, and areas behind rocks where smallmouth ambush prey. Use presentations that allow lures or flies to drift naturally with slight twitches to trigger strikes.
What do Smallmouth Bass eat?
Feed primarily on crayfish, amphibians, and fishes, making them opportunistic predators that will strike at various prey items.
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