Smallmouth Bass

Rochester Hills, Michigan, offers some enjoyable smallmouth bass fishing, particularly in the Clinton River. This river provides a classic smallmouth habitat with rocky bottoms, riffles, and deeper pools. Summer and early fall are prime times, as the water warms and the smallmouth become more active. Topwater lures, such as poppers and walking baits, can be effective in the early morning and late evening. Crayfish-imitating crankbaits and jigs are reliable choices throughout the day. A valuable tip is to wade fish the Clinton River in areas with good current; this allows you to cover more water and target specific structures. Several access points are available along the river, but be mindful of private property. The smallmouth bass in this area tend to be feisty and aggressive, making for an exciting fishing experience. While trophy-sized fish are less common, you can expect to catch plenty of bass in the 1-3 pound range.