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Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass in Wyoming are non-native but well-established fish known for their bronze coloration and aggressive fighting ability.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Known for their bronze coloration.
  • They typically measure 10-15 inches, with some impressive catches reaching up to 18 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They're found primarily in cooler, clearer waters.
  • Smallmouth prefer rocky substrates, clear running water, and areas with submerged structure like boulders and drop-offs.

Key Locations

  • Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Jim Bridger Pond near Green River and Rock Springs, and Bighorn Lake (Yellowtail Reservoir) in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.

Specific Spots

  • Target rocky points, drop-offs, submerged ridges, and areas with boulders or timber structure.
  • In Flaming Gorge Reservoir, focus on main channel flats and points in 50-100 feet of depth.

Smallmouth Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Dr.op-shotting with 6-inch straight tail worms, jigs and crankbaits, Ned rigs, tubes, and paddletail swimbaits (2-4 inches) on 1/16-1/4 ounce jig heads.

What flies work for Smallmouth Bass in Wyoming?

Poppers for topwater action, Clouser Minnows for vertical jigging, streamers like the Double Deceiver and Game Changer for horizontal movement, crayfish imitations, and glass eye minnow patterns that mimic local baitfish.

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

Late spring through early fall when water temperatures reach 68-80°F. After spawning, they enter a recovery period with reduced feeding before becoming highly active when water temperatures reach 68-80°F.

How do you catch Smallmouth Bass in Wyoming?

For fly fishing, vertical jigging with Clouser Minnows, horizontal movement with streamers. For conventional tackle, drop-shotting in deeper waters is highly productive, along with jigs and crankbaits worked along rocky outcrops and ledges. In Flaming Gorge Reservoir, focus on jigging and trolling.

What do Smallmouth Bass eat?

These opportunistic predators feed heavily on crayfish (making up 60-90% of their diet when available), along with minnows, shiners, shad, bluegill, perch, and various insects.

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