Top-performing smallmouth bass flies in 2025 include the most popular, best-selling and must-have patterns for warmwater fly fishing. Every bass fly on this list delivers reliable action and proven results in rivers, lakes and smallmouth-rich streams across the U.S.
The Fly Fishers carries a curated selection of the best smallmouth bass flies available in 2025. From topwater poppers to streamers and crawfish imitations, every fly is chosen for performance. Shop essential bass flies trusted by warmwater fly anglers nationwide.
New & Trending Smallmouth Bass Flies
The best smallmouth bass flies include the Grim Reaper, Crazi Craw, Meal Ticket, Tequeely and Boogle Bug Popper. Top-performing flies for 2025 offer realistic action, strong silhouettes and versatility for different water conditions.
Smallmouth respond best to flies imitating crayfish, baitfish and larger aquatic insects. Streamers like the 5150 and Whitlock’s Hare Sculpin, plus weighted craw patterns like the Crazi Craw, are ideal for current-driven environments.
Absolutely. Poppers like the Blockhead, Surface Seducer Double Barrel and Umpqua Bass Popper create irresistible topwater strikes, especially in warm, low-light conditions. They’re must-haves for summer bass fishing.
Natural tones like olive, brown and black work well in clear water, while brighter colors like chartreuse, orange and purple trigger reaction strikes in stained conditions or low light. Many of 2025’s most popular smallmouth flies are available in both ranges.
Smallmouth flies in sizes #2 through #6 cover most situations. Larger flies move more water and target aggressive fish, while smaller flies can be more subtle and productive during pressured or clear-water days.
Pat grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and started fly fishing as a kid in the early 70’s. Pat Ehlers opened his fly shop, The Fly Fishers, in 1988. Currently, Pat Ehlers is a member of the Scientific Anglers Ambassador Team, a fly designer and consultant for Rainy’s Flies, and a member of the Renzetti Legacy Fly Tying Team. He is also a pro staff member for Mercury Marine, Vexus Boats, Minn-Kota and Humminbird, Engel Coolers, and Anglers Edge Marine, his sponsoring boat dealer.
