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Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass are a popular non-native species in Utah, first introduced to Lake Powell in 1982 from Flaming Gorge Reservoir broodstock.

Known locally as 'bronzebacks,' these fish are distinguished from largemouth bass by their vertical stripes, bronze coloration, continuous dorsal fin, and smaller mouths.

Scientific Name: Micropterus dolomieu

Also known as bronzebacks

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished from largemouth bass by their vertical stripes, bronze coloration, continuous dorsal fin, and smaller mouths.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer clearer, cooler water than largemouth bass and are typically found in rocky habitats around structure like rock piles, downed trees, and shoreline areas.

Key Locations

  • Smallmouth bass populations exist in numerous Utah waters including Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Lake Powell, Starvation Reservoir, Pineview Reservoir, East Canyon Reservoir, Jordanelle Reservoir, Echo Reservoir, Deer Creek Reservoir, Rockport Reservoir, and Minersville Reservoir.
  • Prime locations include Flaming Gorge Reservoir (considered the top smallmouth destination), Lake Powell's rocky shorelines and canyon areas, Starvation Reservoir for consistent action, and the Heber Valley lakes including Deer Creek, Jordanelle, and Rockport reservoirs.

Specific Spots

  • Fish rocky shorelines, points, drop-offs, and areas with hard bottom structure.
  • Target shallow water (under 10 feet) post-spawn when fish are actively feeding in rocky areas and around structure.

Smallmouth Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Dr.op shots with straight-tail worms (6-inch Strike King Filler worms work well), Ned rigs, swimbaits (2-4 inches), jig head minnows, and topwater lures like walking baits and ploppers. Successful colors include natural browns and blacks in clear water, with brighter colors effective in turbid conditions or deep water.

What flies work for Smallmouth Bass in Utah?

Effective patterns include poppers (white is particularly effective), streamers like woolly buggers in olive and black, hellgrammite patterns, crayfish imitations, and beetle patterns.

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

The best smallmouth bass fishing in Utah occurs during late spring through early fall, particularly when water temperatures are between 68-80°F after the spawning period ends. April through June and September through October are generally the most productive seasons.

How do you catch Smallmouth Bass in Utah?

For conventional tackle, finesse techniques excel including drop shots, Ned rigs, swimbaits, jig head minnows, and topwater techniques. Focus on depths of 20-30 feet in early spring, moving to 10-15 feet during pre-spawn, then targeting shallow water (under 10 feet) post-spawn when fish are actively feeding.

What do Smallmouth Bass eat?

Their diet consists primarily of crayfish (60-90% of consumption), various fish species, insects, and aquatic invertebrates.

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