Smallmouth Bass Fishing in California

Featured Smallmouth Bass Guides

Expert captains ready to take you on your next adventure in California.

Here Fishy Fishy Sportfishing

Multi-species fishing guide service in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Fishing for Muskies, Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye and Panfish.

Northern PikeSmallmouth BassWalleye

Rio Linda, California

Seasonal Activity Chart

Current Status: poor

Low activity season. Smallmouth Bass are less active and catches may be limited. Consider targeting other species.

BEST

GOOD

FAIR

POOR

Smallmouth Bass

freshwater

Smallmouth Bass fishing in CA: focus on seasonal forage and water conditions near Bass Lake. Use natural presentations and adjust depth with temperature and current.

How to Catch Smallmouth Bass

Typical Size

Length: Varies by fishery

Weight: Varies by fishery

Habitat

•Local structure and edges
•Current seams
•Bait concentrations
•Depth changes

Where & When to Fish

Target Locations

•Points and channel edges
•Ledges/humps
•Inflow/outflow areas

Best Times

•Low light windows
•Seasonal transitions; follow bait

Bias patterns to Bass Lake area: use local structure (passes/bridges for coastal; channels/points for inland) and match depth to temperature.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in California

Open Season

Year-round

Daily Bag Limit

5 per day

Size Limit

No size limit

License Required

Sport Fishing License

Check specific water body regulations for special closures or restrictions.

⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.

Popular Cities for Smallmouth Bass Fishing in California

Bass Lake Lake Arrowhead Parker Dam Big Bear Lake Blue Lake Canyon Dam Echo Lake Little River

Other Popular Species in California

Bluegill Channel Catfish Flathead Catfish Carp Largemouth Bass Striped Bass White Bass Hybrid Striped Bass