Smaller males (10"-12") seem to prefer pea gravel with some coarse sand for nests. As the smallies get larger they can build nests in material composed of larger stones. The larger males have the most successful nests. Nest sites can be cut into the sloping bank/sides, stair step fashion. Nest depression bottom can have a slight slope or be fairly level. Active smallie nests are often at least 25-40 ft apart.
