Smallmouth Bass

While Bernie, Missouri, isn't widely known as a smallmouth bass hotspot, determined anglers can find them in the St. Francis River and its tributaries. Focus your efforts on the rocky shoals and deeper pools within these waterways. Spring and fall are the best times to target smallmouth, as water temperatures are cooler and the fish are more active. Small crankbaits, tubes, and crawfish imitations are effective lure choices. Accessing the river can be challenging in some areas, so scout out potential access points beforehand. Look for public access points along county roads that cross the river. The smallmouth population here is not as abundant as largemouth, so be prepared to put in some time and effort. Fish tend to be on the smaller side, averaging 1-2 pounds, but the thrill of catching them in this environment is rewarding.