What is the best bait for catching smallmouth bass?

Question

im going lake st clair later and need to know what to use for catching small mouths.

Answer 1

You can't beat a night crawler, but if you must, look into a nice serface spinner.

Answer 2

crayfish work well.  find them near the shore under rocks (in the water)

Answer 3

It's hard to beat a live hellgrammite. I average 5 smallies per bait. Put one of these on a hook and it's like ringing the dinner bell. You can also fish small grubs and tube jigs. You can cover more water faster this way and eliminate the live bait thing. Check with some bait & tackle shops in the area and they can give you some localized info to try. Best of luck and tight lines!!!