Smallmouth Bass
The smallmouth bass is a fish very similar to the largemouth bass. It is part of the same family and is smaller than the largemouth, reaching maximum sizes of about 50 centimeters for 3 kilograms. Physically, it is simple to differentiate them, one of the major differences is the size of the mouth, smaller in the smallmouth, hence its name. The color and the shape of the dorsal fin are also easily identifiable elements.
Habitat
The smallmouth is much more sensitive to the quality and freshness of the water in its environment than the largemouth. It is found in abundance in the St. Lawrence River, in rivers with a minimum of current and in certain well oxygenated lakes, where it often shares the area with trout. It is rarely found in densely vegetated waters and is more likely to be found on rocky bottoms. Largemouth and smallmouth bass habitats do not often overlap, although both species may inhabit the same biotope.
Distribution
Like the largemouth bass, the smallmouth bass is not native to Quebec where it was introduced. It is a common and abundant species in Quebec, its range is also southern Quebec, but it extends a little further north and west, probably because this species is more tolerant of cold temperatures.
Fishing
Its fishing is very similar to that of the largemouth bass, what will change are the places fished, but lures effective on largemouth bass will also be effective on smallmouth bass. The species is equally at home in groups or alone, so when catching a fish, it often pays to insist on the same area, as other individuals are likely to frequent the area.
