No bashing here - there's no doubt that smallmouth fishing is better in the north but I would say your chances of catching a really huge smallmouth are better in our neck of the woods. I also agree with being spoiled - over the years I have caught my share of big smallmouth and although the numbers and opportunities are limited here I love chasing the big fish. There is nothing in the world like tangling with a 5+ lb smallie! I wake up dreaming about huge smallies tailwalking in the moonlight.

kc