Smallmouth Bass

For smallmouth bass enthusiasts visiting Apollo, PA, the Kiskiminetas River (Kiski) is your go-to destination. The Kiski offers ideal habitat with its rocky bottoms, riffles, and deeper pools that smallmouth love. The most productive fishing occurs in the late spring (May-June) after the spawn and again in the fall (September-October) as the water cools. Focus your efforts around rocky structures, submerged logs, and current breaks. A local tactic that works well is using tubes or crankbaits that mimic crayfish, a staple in their diet. Access to the river is available at several points along its course, but be prepared for some wading as the banks can be steep in places. Smallmouth in the Kiski are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, so be ready for some exciting action. Be aware of water levels, as the river can become difficult to fish after heavy rains due to increased flow and turbidity.