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Scientific Name
Micropterus punctulatus
Other Names
Kentucky bass, Diamond bass, Creek bass, Red-eye bass, and Spot
Description
Spotted bass are slender with rows of dark spots on the lower sides. These spots form horizontal streaks. Spotted bass also have a stripe along the middle of each side that form diamond-shaped blotches. The back of these fish is a dark mottling against an olive green color. The top and sides of these fish are dark, but the underside of the body is white. Spotted bass can reach lengths of 24 inches but are usually smaller with maximum size less than either largemouth or smallmouth bass. These fish usually live no more than six years. Females tend to live longer and grow faster than males.
Habits and Habitat
The diet of spotted bass changes as the fish grow, changing from plankton, small aquatic insects, and small crustaceans to larger aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish, and small fish. Spotted bass live in streams and rivers, preferring faster waters than largemouth bass. They have adapted very well to reservoirs, and are often found around rocks or rip-rap. These fish spawn in mid-April through June. Spawning occurs in water temperatures of about 63ºF to 78ºF. Female and male spotted bass are mature at the age of two years. Spotted bass like other bass are nest spawners. The males build nests and guard the nests until the eggs hatch.
State Record
Mississippi’s Rod and Reel record is 8 pounds 2 ounces, caught in a farm pond in 1975 by S. R. Grantham.
Fishing Fact
Spinner baits, jigs, crank baits, plastic worms, and live worms are popular for landing a spotted bass.