Smallmouth Bass

While not as abundant as largemouth, smallmouth bass can be found in the South Santiam River near Tangent, Oregon. These feisty fish prefer rocky areas with current, so focus your efforts on riffles, runs, and pools with plenty of structure. Summer and early fall are generally the most productive times to target smallmouth, as the water is warmer and the fish are more active. Effective lures include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, tubes, and crayfish imitations. Fly fishing with streamers can also be a blast. Access to the South Santiam is available at various parks and boat ramps along the river. Be prepared to do some wading or floating to reach the best smallmouth habitat. The smallmouth in this region tend to be aggressive, so don't be afraid to use a fast retrieve and cover a lot of water. A useful local tip: check water levels before you go. Low water conditions can make wading easier but can also concentrate the fish in certain areas, making them more vulnerable. Conversely, high water can make fishing more challenging but can also bring in fresh fish from other parts of the river system.