Smallmouth Bass

Bellevue, Iowa, offers fantastic smallmouth bass fishing, primarily due to its location on the Mississippi River. The rocky shorelines, submerged timber, and wing dams near Bellevue create ideal habitat for smallies. The best time to target them here is during the spring spawning season (May-June) and again in the fall (September-October) when they actively feed before winter. Focus your efforts around the riprap and current breaks near the Highway 52 bridge or explore the backwaters and sloughs accessible by boat. A local tip: the smallmouth here are known to be opportunistic feeders, so try using a variety of lures, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and tube jigs. Also, be aware of fluctuating river levels, which can significantly impact fishing conditions. Check the river stage before heading out for the most productive and safe fishing experience. The smallmouth in this stretch of the Mississippi tend to be aggressive fighters, making for an exciting angling experience.