Fishing Articles
Smallmouth bass fishing tips, techniques, and river knowledge from guide Jeff Greene built from years on the Upper Potomac and Susquehanna Rivers.
Best Smallmouth Bass Spots on the Upper Potomac River
Discover the best smallmouth bass fishing spots on the Upper Potomac River in Maryland. Guide Jeff Greene shares insider knowledge on structure, seasonal patterns, and where to find trophy bass.
- Rocky shoals and riffles concentrate baitfish and crayfish year-round
- Current seams on the downstream side of boulders are prime ambush spots
- Deep pools hold big fish in summer heat and winter cold
- Wing dams and rock piles create current breaks that stack fish
- Edwards Ferry Boat Ramp is the primary launch for guided trips
Susquehanna River Smallmouth Bass Fishing Guide
Complete guide to smallmouth bass fishing on the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania. Jeff Greene covers the best spots, baits, and techniques for trophy bass on one of the East Coast's greatest rivers.
- Submerged islands and flats are prime pre-spawn territory in spring
- Rocky points create current breaks that hold fish all season
- Deep channel edges hold trophy fish in summer and winter
- Tributary mouths concentrate baitfish and bass year-round
- Swimbaits excel when shad are present in the river
Best Baits for River Smallmouth Bass
Guide Jeff Greene shares the 6 baits he trusts in his boat every single day on the Upper Potomac and Susquehanna Rivers — tube jigs, ned rigs, swimbaits, topwater, ZMan baits, and crayfish imitations.
- Tube jigs are the #1 bait on both rivers — green pumpkin and watermelon
- Ned rig is the go-to for clear water and finicky fish
- Swimbaits excel on the Susquehanna when shad are present
- Topwater produces explosive strikes early morning and evening
- ZMan ElaZtech baits are incredibly durable and have unique action
What to Expect on a Guided Smallmouth Bass Fishing Trip
First time booking a guided fishing trip? Jeff Greene walks you through exactly what to expect — what to bring, how the day unfolds, trip rates, and answers to the most common questions.
- No experience needed — Jeff guides all skill levels
- All tackle provided — just bring your fishing license
- Trips run from a custom 17-ft jet boat on both rivers
- VIP pick-up and drop-off service available for $80
- Catch and release practiced on all guided trips
Topwater Fishing for Smallmouth Bass
Few things in freshwater fishing match the explosive strike of a smallmouth bass crushing a topwater lure. Learn the best presentations, timing, and baits for topwater action on the Upper Potomac and Susquehanna.
- Fish topwater early morning and evening when light is low
- Walking baits like the Zara Spook are deadly in calm flats
- Poppers work best near rocky structure and current seams
- Slow down your retrieve — let the bait sit after each pop
- Use 10–12 lb monofilament for a natural presentation
Seasonal Smallmouth Bass Patterns on the Potomac & Susquehanna
Smallmouth bass behavior changes dramatically through the seasons. Understanding these patterns will help you plan your trip for peak action and know what to expect when you hit the water.
- Spring (April–May): Pre-spawn fish move shallow — target flats and gravel bars
- Early Summer (June): Post-spawn fish are aggressive and feeding heavily
- Peak Summer (July–Aug): Early morning topwater, midday go deep or find shade
- Fall (Sept–Oct): Trophy season — big fish feed heavily before winter
- Water temperature between 60–75°F produces the best action
Learn From Jeff Greene
Jeff Greene is a fully licensed fishing guide with decades of experience on the Upper Potomac River and Susquehanna River. Every tip and technique in these articles comes directly from time on the water — guiding anglers of all skill levels to trophy smallmouth bass.
Put These Tips to Work
The best way to learn is on the water. Book a guided trip with Jeff Greene and experience trophy smallmouth bass fishing firsthand.
Shallow Water Fishing Adventures is the premier fishing guide service for trophy river smallmouth in the Washington, DC area and the premier fishing guide service for river smallmouth in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area.
You Are Just Minutes Away from a Fishing Adventure of a Lifetime
If you live in Northern Virginia, world-class smallmouth bass fishing is right in your backyard. The Upper Potomac River is just a short drive away — no need to travel far for an unforgettable guided fishing experience with professional guide Jeff Greene.
Conveniently Located for Anglers Across the Region
Shallow Water Fishing Adventures is an excellent fishing guide service located just north of Washington, DC, just west of Baltimore, Maryland, and also guides on the Susquehanna River in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area.