smallmouth black bass

fish

Also known as: Micropterus dolomieu, smallmouth bass

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

The smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) is a species of freshwater fish belonging to the sunfish family, Centrarchidae. Native to eastern North America, it is a type of black bass, known for its elongated body and predatory habits.1

Distinguishing features of the smallmouth bass include its preference for clear, cool lakes and streams, and its coloration, which ranges from green to brownish with darker mottling. Unlike the largemouth bass, its upper jawbone does not extend beyond the eye, and the angle of its jaw falls below the eye. Smallmouth bass typically weigh between 4.5 to 6.5 pounds (2–3 kg) but can reach up to 12 pounds (5.5 kg) and 27.5 inches (70 cm) in length. They are highly regarded as game fish due to their strong fight when caught.12

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black bass
…of them, the largemouth and smallmouth basses (M. salmoides and M. dolomieu), have been introduced in other countries and are prized as hard-fighting game fishes.
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…of them, the largemouth and smallmouth basses (M. salmoides and M. dolomieu), have been introduced in other countries and are prized as hard-fighting game fishes.
Read More