What primary food sources may contribute to the Smallmouth Bass's generally cleaner taste profile?

Crayfish and minnows

The Smallmouth Bass generally enjoys a superior culinary reputation compared to the Largemouth Bass, partly attributed to its typical diet. Smallmouths are commonly found in cooler, rockier habitats, such as deeper lake sections or flowing river systems, where they primarily feed on active prey like crayfish and minnows. This diet, rich in firmer protein sources rather than solely soft vegetation or abundant insects found in stagnant waters, seems to impart a cleaner and more desirable fundamental flavor to the flesh even before considering environmental factors. This difference in feeding habits provides a foundation for better palatability right from the initial catch.