Smallmouth Bass

Targeting smallmouth bass near Milton, Washington, means exploring the Puyallup River and its tributaries. While the Puyallup is known for salmon, dedicated anglers can find decent smallmouth, particularly in the warmer months. The best time to fish for smallmouth here is late spring through early fall, when the water temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees. Focus on areas with rocky bottoms, submerged logs, and current breaks. Access can be a bit challenging in some spots; look for public access points along the river near Milton or consider launching a kayak or small boat. A good local tip is to pay attention to water levels, as the Puyallup can fluctuate rapidly. The smallmouth here aren’t giants, but they are scrappy fighters, and a good day can yield several fish in the 1-3 pound range. Try using crayfish imitations or small crankbaits worked along the bottom.