This is Pete (Big Hammer or Leapin' Bass) not Brian #2 (he keeps using my computer!). Anyways...

Try a buzzbait or even better a Buzz Hammer (www.swimbait.com/buzz). There is a river I fish once a year back East that is loaded with small smallmouth (8 - 10 inches) but also has some big ones (I've caught them up to 20 inches). The big ones are pretty rare according to the locals but I catch them pretty consistently with the Buzz Hammer. Pretty cool for only fishing there once a year.

Also, don't be afraid to fish the running water. I used to just concentrate on the slower moving "bassy" looking areas of the river but I have learned in recent years that fishing some of the fast water areas can produce some nice fish.