It is interesting to know that just because a particular fly was designed to be fished a certain way doesn't mean that is the only way it can be used. For example, the Muddler Minnow is a streamer that is designed to be used underwater but it can also be used on the surface of the water.
 
Here is a list of some of the different types of flies.
 
Divers
Crease Flies
Sliders
Poppers
Jitterbug Bass Flies
Rapala
 
These are just a few of the flies that are available and they all seem to work very well. Of course, the one that you should use will depend on where and when you are fishing for the smallmouth bass. This species is attracted to flies that mimic the movements of their natural food source because they stir up the surface of the water and capture their attention.
 
Surface Fly Fishing
 
Surface fly fishing is one of the most popular techniques used for catching the smallmouth bass. They will strike flies that are on the surface with quite a bit of aggressiveness. This makes using a floating fly on the surface of the water extremely exciting. In clear water you can actually watch the fish chase down and strike your bait.
 
The retrieval method is probably the most important step involved in bass fly fishing. It is important to control the movement of the flies through the retrieval. The retrieval includes the presentation of the fly, the accuracy in which you place the bait in the strike zone and the action of the fly. All of these play a factor in how much success you have.
 
The smallmouth bass can be unpredictable. Therefore, you will need to experiment sometimes before you find a technique that works. A certain technique may work on one occasion but not on another, it all depends on what mood the smallmouth bass are in when you are fishing. In other words, sometimes you may be able to cast your fly and let it sit and the smallmouth will go after it. Other times you may need to do a slow retrieval and still others a fast retrieval. If one thing isn't working don't hesitate to try something else. It could be the key to your success.
 
Sometimes a small change in your technique can make a huge difference. For instance, changing the length of time that you pause between when the fly hits the water and when you begin to retrieve it may entice the smallmouth to strike. Just because something is working and you are catching the smallmouth bass doesn't mean that it's always the best technique to use. Therefore, experiment from time to time. You may be surprised at the results.   
                                                                                 
                                    
Regardless of which technique you use, don't allow slack to gather in your line.
If this happens and you get a bite, you won't be able to set the hook correctly and you will most likely lose the catch.  

To get the full "Bass Fly Fishing Technique For Catching Smallmouth" article you'll need to download it here.