HABITAT

Distribution

The smallmouth is considered a coolwater fish, with temperature requirements higher than those of trout and the chars, but lower than warm-water species such as largemouths and carp. This versatile fish can often be found alongside other members of the coolwater fish community such as pike, walleye, and muskie. At first glance the species may appear to be a very confused fish, or at least very confusing to the fisherman. Across its range it can be found in just about every conceivable type of water with the exceptions of the coldest alpine trout-type streams and the warmest shallow lakes and rivers.

Considering the adaptability of this fish to a variety of lake, reservoir, and river types, the original range of the smallmouth bass is surprisingly limited. Prior to the mid-1800s, the fish was found only in the fresh waters of the eastern part of central North America. Early fish culturists were quick to recognize the value of the versatile smallmouth for introduction into new habitats, and the present world range includes wide distribution in Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. In North America the species extends south to Georgia, west to Oklahoma, north to central Saskatchewan, and east to Maine and Nova Scotia. Isolated populations of smallies can even be found as far west as Vancouver Island and Washington State.

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