My First Smallmouth Bass

Early in the 2012 season, I came across a great spot along the Cuyahoga River in Akron. It’s a great spot for wading in your bare feet and keeping cool. It’s a little bit of a hike from the parking lot, but well worth it. I’ve caught several Smallmouth Bass from many different angles along the shore and from the island in the center of the river.

As shown in the picture below, there is a nice bend in the river, with it splitting off two ways and merging again, creating an island. On the downstream side of the island is a fallen tree that is and has been stationary. My usual standing spot is on the “beach” toward the very center of the picture. The water is a lot deeper on the opposite side of that spot. And since Smallmouth Bass prefer moving water, it didn’t surprise me that I caught a few in the fast current.

The overlook deck where you can look onto the Cuyahoga River
The overlook deck
A view from an overlook deck where you can see a nice bend in the Cuyahoga River
A nice bend in the Cuyahoga River
My hand holding up a smallmouth bass with red eyes along the bank of the Cuyahoga River
My first smallmouth bass. Look at those eyes!
My hand holding up another smallmouth bass along the bank of the Cuyahoga River
Another smallie I caught on the same day
Cuyahoga River bass catch smallmouth

Catch Data

Date Saturday, May 05, 2012
Species Smallmouth Bass
Lure Mister Twister Curly Tail (watermelon)
Air Temperature 70°F
Water Clarity Clear
Location: Cuyahoga River off of Peck Road

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