Largemouth Bass

Mountainburg, Arkansas, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, is a fantastic place to pursue largemouth bass in a scenic setting. Lake Fort Smith, a relatively clear reservoir, is the primary destination. Spring and fall are the peak seasons, as the bass are more active during these times. During the spring spawn, target shallow coves and weed beds with soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits. As the water warms in the summer, focus on deeper structure, such as submerged timber and rocky points. A local tip: Lake Fort Smith is known for its clear water, so using fluorocarbon line can improve your presentation. In the fall, as the water cools, bass will often move back into the shallows to feed before winter. The Lake Fort Smith State Park provides excellent access to the lake with boat ramps and bank fishing opportunities. Remember to check the current Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulations for size and creel limits specific to Lake Fort Smith.