Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu
Identification
This fish has a bronze body with vertical bars and a smaller mouth than the largemouth.
Location
Common statewide
Size
1 to 6 pounds
Diet
It feeds on fish crayfish and insects.
Habitat
It occurs in rivers and rocky lakes.
Activity Period
Year round
Behavior
It is active in clear rocky waters and prefers strong currents. It is most active in warm months.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring with males guarding nests.
Population
The population is stable statewide.
History
It has long been native to Ohio.
Human Interactions
It is prized by anglers for its fighting ability.
Facts
It is known as the bronzeback.
Sources
ODNR NatureServe
Fish crayfish insects | Rivers lakes rocky streams | Statewide