Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass fishing near Stanwood, Washington, centers around the Stillaguamish River. While not as famed as other Washington rivers for smallies, the 'Stilly' holds a healthy population, particularly in its lower stretches. Look for rocky areas, current breaks, and submerged structure. Summer is the peak season, as the water warms and the bass become more active. Early mornings and late evenings often produce the best results. A great access point is the boat launch at Kayak Point County Park, allowing you to explore a significant section of the river. Be mindful of the tides, as the lower river is tidally influenced. Smallmouth in this area tend to be opportunistic feeders, so a variety of lures and techniques can be effective, from crankbaits and spinnerbaits to jigs and soft plastics. Don't be afraid to experiment to find what the fish are keying on that day. The Smallmouth here average 1-3lbs.