Don't be afraid to try swim baits that you would typically throw for Largemouth I like the Spro BBZ and Decoy Hydra for smallmouth as with any larger bait you will not get the numbers but typically you will catch big ones. I typically stay under the 6" range in length. Neither one of these baits require any special rods or reels although they may be heavy for a spinning outfit so a bait casting setup most likely will be needed the heaviest of the two baits is the Decoy probably around 1oz. I use both of these baits in specific areas that I have found big smallies in and they are very effective I caught two citations in one day about a week ago not sure on the weight but one was 21" and the other 21 1/2". You can check both of these baits out at Tackle Warehouse Good Luck
