Smallmouth Bass

Carbonado, Washington, while known for its proximity to Mount Rainier, offers some surprisingly good smallmouth bass fishing in the nearby rivers and reservoirs. The clear, cold waters of the Carbon River and the larger Puyallup River system hold decent populations of smallmouth, though targeting them requires some hiking and exploring. The best time to fish for smallmouth here is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, when the water temperatures are more conducive to their activity. Look for rocky areas, submerged logs, and deeper pools where smallmouth like to ambush prey. A good access point is the Carbon River Road, where you can find various pull-offs and trails leading to the river. Be mindful of the river's flow, as it can change rapidly, especially after rainfall. Also, be aware of private property and respect any posted signage.