10 Best Smallmouth Bass Lures 2025 in the United States

The Gary Yamamoto 9-10-196 Senko, 5-Inch, 10-Pack in Pumpkin Black Green Flake is a well-regarded option for anglers targeting smallmouth bass. Known for its quality and versatility, this soft stick bait can be used in various fishing techniques such as weightless, wacky-style, Texas or Carolina rig, making it a flexible choice for different conditions.

Its 5-inch size is suitable for attracting smallmouth bass, and the specific color combination of pumpkin with black and green flake is designed to be appealing to this species of fish. The lure's action is a key feature; the soft plastic body, impregnated with a large amount of salt, creates a unique fall rate that can drive fish to bite.

This bait is often noted for its simplicity and effectiveness, making it accessible even for less experienced anglers. However, it is important to note that the lure's soft material, while effective, can sometimes be less durable compared to harder plastics, requiring more frequent replacements. Additionally, this lure is highly popular, which might mean it is often imitated but not always matched in quality by other brands. For those looking for a reliable and versatile option to catch smallmouth bass, the Gary Yamamoto Senko is a strong contender, though anglers should be prepared for the potential need to replace the lures more often due to wear and tear.

The Berkley Choppo Fishing Hard Bait is a topwater lure designed for anglers seeking explosive action on the water surface. As a lure type, it offers ease of use with a simple 'chunk and wind' method, making it suitable for both novices and experienced fishers. One of its standout features is the cupped propeller tail, which contributes to its lively action by creating sound and spray—a good attractor for smallmouth bass. Its precision balance ensures the lure tracks straight, even at different retrieval speeds, minimizing the chances of rolling and offering reliable performance.

With a length of 120mm and a weight of 1 oz, this lure is of a moderate size, making it versatile for various fishing conditions. It is available in forage-matching colorways, like the HD Baby Bass, allowing you to 'match the hatch' effectively according to the environment and fish preferences. The lure is equipped with sharp Fusion19 hooks, ensuring firm penetration and holding capacity, important for securing your catch during tough fights.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Being made of plastic, durability over time might be a concern if frequently used or exposed to harsh conditions. Additionally, while the lure action is appealing for topwater fishing, it may not be suitable for deeper water applications, limiting its use to surface-level fishing scenarios.

In the realm of smallmouth bass fishing, the Berkley Choppo ranks highly for topwater lures, evident from its customer reviews and sales rank. It's a solid choice for anglers targeting bass who appreciate a lure that delivers dynamic surface action and consistent performance.

The Yamamoto 6' Senko Baby Bass lure is a versatile and high-quality soft worm bait that is popular among anglers. Its 6-inch size makes it slightly longer and larger in diameter compared to the 5-inch version, allowing it to fall faster and reach deeper fish, which can be beneficial for targeting smallmouth bass in deeper waters. The Baby Bass color is effective in mimicking the natural prey of bass, making it attractive to the fish.

The lure’s action and depth are customizable, as it can be rigged in various ways such as weightless, wacky-style, Texas-rigged, Carolina-rigged, or on a shaky head or flipping jig. This versatility makes it suitable for different fishing conditions and techniques, enhancing its ability to catch smallmouth bass. The product's strength lies in its unmatched quality and ease of use, with a proven formula that has been perfected by Yamamoto.

However, a potential drawback is its price, which might be higher compared to other soft plastic lures. Additionally, the heavier weight might not be ideal for all fishing scenarios where a slower fall is preferred.