Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass are found statewide in both warm and cool waters. They prefer rocky, clear-water habitats of lakes impoundments and small to medium sized streams. They feed primarily on fish, insects and crustaceans.

Smallmouth Bass have a long, slender body green to bronze in color and 9-16 vertical bars along the side. The jaw extends to the middle of their red eye and they have a poorly separated dorsal fin between spiny and soft-rayed portions.

Daily Limit:

Statewide: 5

Limits apply to any combination of largemouth and/or smallmouth bass.

Exceptions:

MN/SD Border waters: 6

Several lakes have specific smallmouth and largemouth length regulations, please see your South Dakota Fishing Handbook for more information.

Possession Limit:

10

Proud Angler Qualifications:

3 pounds

18 inches (released fish only)