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Species · Smallmouth bass

Smallmouth bass

Present but less abundant than largemouth. Look to rock, points, and clearer main-lake edges.

Season

Time of day

Low light and wind-blown rock. Night can work near rocky public banks; day bite often better in cooler months.

Where on Hoover

  • Rocky points and riprap on public shoreline.
  • Confirm access on Columbus / ODNR maps. No private property.

Water maps · ODNR depth PDF (2001 @ 894 ft)

Limits reminder, verify

Same combined black bass limit (ODNR Fishing Regulations 2026–27); Hoover has no bass exception.

RuleReminder (verify 2026–27)
Largemouth / smallmouth / spotted combinedDaily 5
Minimum length12″

Reminder only. Confirm on HuntFish OH / ODNR licenses and the current ODNR regs before you keep fish. Cite: ODNR Fishing Regulations 2026–27 (verify current).

Gear

Sized for bank reality and ≤10 hp boats. Hoover is a drinking-water reservoir.

  • Medium spinning, lighter line than cat gear (6–10 lb).
  • Tubes, Ned rigs, small crankbaits, hair jigs.
  • Bank or small boat both work; focus on rock.

Bait & presentation

  • Tubes, drop-shots, small swimbaits, crankbaits.
  • Match craw/shad colors to season.

Notes

Less abundant than largemouth per ODNR Hoover notes. Same 5-fish / 12″ aggregate as largemouth/spotted.

Water & maps

Contours, pool correction, public ramps.

Log a trip

Targeting Smallmouth bass : private browser log or community submit.
Unofficial notebook only, not ODNR, the City of Columbus or USGS. License required ages 16+. Confirm regs before you keep fish.