I fish relatively small creeks here in IN, and the water is low now and gin clear.  When I am catching a decent-sized one there are often two-five similar sized ones trying to take the lure from the hooked one.  After releasing the hooked one, I can usually catch one or more of the followers.  Last week I caught five 12-15 inchers on consecutive casts so they don't spook each other, but they were sure trying to get the lure out of the hooked one.  Does anyone know why they do this?

They are curious or hungry or both! It's something that happens everywhere. Similar size smallies school together and all the fish is a group will try to steal a meal from each other. If one gets off, don't be surprised if another hits your lure immediately.

I also see that a lot on Stony Creek near Noblesville. It can be down right comical.