Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass fishing near Columbia City centers around the Columbia River itself. While not as abundant as largemouth in the sloughs, smallmouth can be found in rocky areas and around bridge pilings. Look for areas with current breaks and deeper water. Late summer and early fall are prime times, as the water cools down and the smallmouth become more active before winter. Crankbaits, tubes, and jigs are all effective lures. Focus on casting towards rocky shorelines and retrieving your lure along the bottom. Be prepared for some current, and use heavier weights or lures to maintain contact with the bottom. The area around the Rainier bridge can be productive. A local tip: pay attention to the water clarity, as smallmouth prefer clearer water. Check the river conditions and flow rates before heading out, as high water can make fishing difficult.