How big does a small mouth bass have to be keep it?

In most US states, the minimum length limit for keeping smallmouth bass is between 12 and 15 inches.

However, some states, such as California and Oregon, have no minimum size limit for smallmouth bass. In other states, the size limit may vary depending on the body of water. For example, in some states, the size limit for smallmouth bass may be larger in rivers than in lakes.

Before you go fishing for smallmouth bass, be sure to check the regulations for the state and body of water where you will be fishing. This information can usually be found on the website of the state fish and wildlife agency.

Here are the minimum length limits for smallmouth bass in some popular US states:

- California: No minimum length limit

- Florida: 12 inches

- Georgia: 12 inches

- Illinois: 15 inches

- Kentucky: 12 inches

- Michigan: 14 inches

- Minnesota: 18 inches

- Missouri: 15 inches

- New York: 12 inches

- Ohio: 14 inches

- Oregon: No minimum length limit

- Pennsylvania: 15 inches

- Tennessee: 14 inches

- Texas: 18 inches

- Washington: 10 inches

- Wisconsin: 14 inches

Note: These are just some examples of minimum length limits for smallmouth bass. The actual size limit in a particular state or body of water may be different. Always check the regulations before you go fishing.