Smallmouth Bass

While largemouth get more attention in the Olympia area, savvy anglers can find smallmouth bass opportunities too. The lower stretches of the Deschutes River, particularly where it flows into Puget Sound, hold smallmouth. Look for rocky areas, current breaks, and submerged structure. The Nisqually River, further south, also offers smallmouth habitat. Summer and early fall are ideal times to target these fish, as the water has warmed and they are actively feeding. A practical tip for targeting smallmouth here is to focus on areas with faster currents and rocky bottoms. Smallmouth in the Deschutes and Nisqually tend to be smaller than their largemouth cousins, but they are aggressive fighters. Tube baits, small crankbaits, and Ned rigs are all effective lures. Be mindful of changing water levels, especially in the Nisqually, as releases from upstream dams can affect fishing conditions. Always check the river flow before heading out.