Ep. 157 - Ben Levin - Identifying Ideal Smallmouth Habitat + the BEST Rivers and Streams in Arkansas & Missouri

Smallmouth bass are more than just a native fish—they’re the true emblem of Ozark angling. In this episode, we reconnect with expert fly fishing guide Ben Levin for a deep dive into the creeks, rivers, and strategies that define smallmouth fishing in the Ozarks.

If you’ve ever wondered what separates a good smallmouth creek from a great one—or which fly patterns actually catch fish—this episode is your new go-to field guide.

Book a trip with Ben: Fly South Adventures

Support for this episode

Vortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars

Moultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration

Umarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology

00:00 – Introduction

10:00 – How weather, water levels, and sunlight impact fish behavior

15:40 – What makes a great smallmouth creek

20:10 – Minnow vs. crawfish: What Ozark smallmouth are really eating

26:30 – Smallmouth as the soul of Ozark fishing

31:00 – Seasonal breakdown: pre-spawn to winter tactics

35:00 – Ben’s top 3 flies and how to fish them

What is The Ozark Podcast?

In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.

Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews

Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton

Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast

PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com