Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass fishing near Sheldon, Missouri, requires a bit more searching than largemouth, but the reward is worth the effort. Focus on the areas' creeks and rivers with rocky bottoms and clear water. Look for areas with current breaks, such as boulders, submerged logs, and deeper pools. While not as abundant as largemouth, smallmouth are present and can provide exciting fishing. Spring and fall are the best times to target smallmouth. In the spring, they'll be staging near spawning areas, and in the fall, they'll be actively feeding before winter. Small crankbaits, tubes, and jerkbaits are effective lure choices. A key tip is to wade the streams whenever possible. This allows you to cover more water and present your lure more naturally. Be mindful of water levels, as heavy rains can make wading difficult and muddy the water. The smallmouth in this area are known for their fighting ability, so be prepared for a good battle. Respect the resource by practicing catch and release to help maintain the population.