In natural lakes, shallow points with rocks for cover, beds adjacent to deep water and sheltered areas.  In man-made lakes, rocky areas such as in creek arms and sheltered areas.  In rivers, shallow shoals, hidden areas with flowing water and shallow banks with rocky edges.

Late Spring through Fall:

In natural lakes, points, reefs, inlet mouths and flats with sandy or rocky bottoms.  In man-made lakes, humps, reefs,  timbered flats, and structures with rocks and sandy bottoms.  In rivers, ledges, riprap banks and side channels.  Rocky and sandy bottoms are favorite places for smallmouth bass.

Later Fall and Winter:

In any body of water, deep water.  If the river or lake has points with warm water such as a dam, fish for smallmouth there.

When in doubt, fish near structures in warmer water and for holes and channels in colder water.