Smallmouth Bass

While Dellwood is renowned for its largemouth bass, persistent anglers can also find opportunities to target smallmouth bass, particularly in the larger lakes like White Bear Lake. Look for rocky points, drop-offs, and areas with current, as these are prime smallmouth habitat. The best time to target smallmouth in Dellwood is during the spring and fall, when water temperatures are cooler and the fish are more active. A local tip is to focus on areas with a mix of rock and vegetation, as this provides both cover and feeding opportunities for smallmouth. Tubes, crankbaits, and jerkbaits are all effective lure choices. White Bear Lake offers several public access points, including the one on the southwest side, providing convenient access for boaters. Keep in mind that smallmouth bass can be more sensitive to fishing pressure than largemouth, so consider using lighter line and more natural presentations. The smallmouth population in Dellwood may not be as abundant as the largemouth, but the fish that are present are often aggressive and hard-fighting, making for a rewarding fishing experience.