Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieui)

Description: Non-native. Introduced in 1921. Smallmouth bass most often are bronze to brownish green in color, with dark vertical bars on sides. In contrast to the Largemouth bass, the upper jaw does not extend beyond rear margin of eye. Eye reddish in color. Shallow notch in dorsal fin. Soft dorsal fin has 13 to 15 rays. Length: 12 to 22 inches. Weight 8 ounces to 7 pounds. Location and Habitat: They are abundant in the Verde River, Black River, Apache Lake and to some degree in Roosevelt Reservoir and Lake Powell. They prefer rocky habitats in streams and lakes with clear waters. Food: Shad and crayfish are consumed in lakes; and crayfish and minnows in streams. In streams, smallmouth can be very aggressive when hellgrammites and terrestrial insects are available. Angling: Effective lures for smallmouth, are those that resemble minnows, plastic worms and streamer flies. Live baits include minnows, hellgrammites and crayfish. One of the best smallmouth fisheries in the State is the Black River. Table Quality: The meat is similar to largemouth bass, mild tasting, white, flaky and low in oil content.