If the engine is "rich" the running will not be smooth, but it will instead fire every 2nd or 3rd time. Some call this "blubbering" and it's an apt description. There will also be black smoke coming from the exhaust. Check these items for a "rich" condition...
• Choke stuck in ON position
• Air filter needs replacement
• Trash holding the float valve open (Sometimes this is bits of the fuel line interior flaking off due to Ethanol or fuel additives. Check that you have "SAE J30" approved fuel line.)
• Worn float valve
• Jets not tight in the carb body
• O-rings on the jets eaten up from running harsh fuel additives
• Incorrect float level
Start with a careful disassembly over WHITE kitchen paper towels. Any trash washed by carb cleaner out will be very easy to see.
Hope this helps.