Smallmouth Bass

If you're chasing smallmouth bass in southwest Missouri, Cassville offers some exceptional opportunities. The clear, rocky streams and rivers of the Ozarks surrounding Cassville are prime smallie habitat. Focus your efforts on the Elk River and Kings River, known for their healthy populations of hard-fighting smallmouth. Spring and fall are generally the best times, with pre-spawn activity in the spring and fish bulking up for winter in the fall. For bank access, try Roaring River State Park, just a short drive from Cassville. It offers wade-fishing access to the Roaring River, which connects to the larger White River system. Be aware that water levels can fluctuate rapidly depending on rainfall, so check conditions before you go. Look for smallmouth around rocky outcroppings, current breaks, and submerged timber. Downsizing your presentation to match smaller forage fish is often key to success here.