Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass fishing near Hopkins, Michigan, can be quite rewarding. While largemouth tend to dominate the smaller lakes, the nearby Kalamazoo River and some of the larger lakes connected to it hold decent populations of smallmouth. Focus your efforts on areas with rocky bottoms, current breaks, and submerged structure. The best times are typically late spring after the spawn and again in the fall as the water cools. A great access point is the boat launch near Allegan, allowing you to explore the Kalamazoo River. Local knowledge suggests using crayfish imitations or tubes in natural colors. Smallmouth in this area can be sensitive to fishing pressure, so rotating through different spots and using a stealthy approach is key. The average size is respectable, with opportunities to catch fish in the 1-3 pound range. Focus on areas near bridge pilings or where the river channel narrows for the best results.