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Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass in South Carolina are a non-native species successfully introduced in the 1980s through limited stockings in the northwestern part of the state and central piedmont.

These bronze-backed fighters are considered exceptional sportfish for their fighting qualities.

Physical Characteristics:
  • These bronze-backed fighters display bronze to olive green coloration with dark brown to bronze specks that sometimes appear as vertical bars, distinguished by three dark stripes extending from red eyes and lacking the horizontal stripe of largemouth bass.
  • South Carolina smallmouth average 10-18 inches and ½-2 pounds, with 6-pound fish considered large for the state.
  • The current state record is an impressive 9 pounds 7 ounces caught from Lake Jocassee in 2001.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit cooler waters of foothill reservoirs and clear, cool streams, primarily found in Lakes Jocassee and Keowee, plus the Broad River system from Gaffney to Columbia.

Key Locations

  • Target Lakes Jocassee and Keowee for reservoir fishing, with Devils Fork State Park providing excellent Lake Jocassee access.
  • The Broad River offers outstanding river fishing from public access points including Columbia riverwalks and Neal Shoals Dam.
  • They're primarily found in Lakes Jocassee and Keowee, plus the Broad River system from Gaffney to Columbia.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on pool sections adjacent to current seams, rocky banks, dam riprap, and woody structure.
  • In streams, they limit their range to one pool or several adjacent pools.

Smallmouth Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Smallmouth Bass in South Carolina?

Crankbaits and soft plastics as primary choices, with crayfish-pattern lures being especially effective since crayfish are a primary forage species.

What flies work for Smallmouth Bass in South Carolina?

Productive fly patterns include subsurface streamers like Clouser minnows and woolly buggers, plus sliding poppers such as sneaky pete or diver varieties. Popular colors follow the smallmouth angler sayings: 'if it isn't chartreuse, it's no use' and 'if it isn't black, put it back.' Size 2-4 flies work best.

When is the best time to fish for Smallmouth Bass in South Carolina?

Spring and fall being prime seasons when water temperatures range between 60-75°F. Winter fishing can be productive around warm water discharges, particularly near power plants. Avoid fishing during April-May spawning period to protect nesting fish and ensure future populations.

How do you catch Smallmouth Bass in South Carolina?

Quick retrieves can trigger aggressive strikes, and any lure bounced off river rocks can provoke reaction strikes. Target current seams where different water speeds create aquatic buffet lines of bugs, crayfish, and baitfish.

What do Smallmouth Bass eat?

Young smallmouth eat microcrustaceans, aquatic insects, tadpoles, and fish larvae, progressing to crayfish, darters, minnows, yellow perch, and sunfish as they mature. They're opportunistic ambush predators that prowl for food and commonly feed on organisms dislodged by bottom-disturbing activities.

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