Smallmouth Bass

While not as abundant as largemouth or spots, Smallmouth Bass can be found in the waters surrounding Cartersville, particularly in the upper reaches of Lake Allatoona and the Etowah River. These fish prefer cooler, moving water and rocky habitats. Spring and fall are ideal times to target them, with small crankbaits, tubes, and jerkbaits being effective choices. Focus on areas with current, such as near bridge pilings or rocky shoals. A practical tip: water clarity is crucial for smallmouth, so target areas away from muddy inflows. Accessing the Etowah River for smallmouth can be tricky; consider using smaller watercraft like kayaks or canoes to navigate the shallower sections. Be prepared for a more challenging fishing experience, but the reward of landing a bronze back is well worth it.