Smallmouth Bass

While not as abundant as largemouth or spotted bass, Smallmouth Bass can be found in a few select locations near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Lake Ouachita, with its clear, deep waters and rocky structure, is your best bet. Targeting smallmouth requires a different approach than fishing for their cousins. Focus on areas with current, such as near the dam or in the upper reaches of the lake where rivers enter. Small crankbaits, tubes, and jerkbaits are effective lures. Spring and fall are good times to target smallmouth, as they move shallow to spawn or feed. A local tip: Pay close attention to water clarity – smallmouth prefer clear water, so fish the clearest areas you can find. Also, be prepared to fish deep, as smallmouth often hold near the bottom in 20 feet of water or more. The area around Blakely Mountain Dam is known to hold smallmouth.