Spotted Bass: Micropterus punctulatus
Appearance:
Spotted bass are similar to largemouth bass, but unlike the largemouth, the spotted bass has scales on the base portion of the second dorsal fin; their first and second dorsal fins are clearly connected, and its upper jaw does not extend past the eye. A rectangular tooth patch on the tongue also helps distinguish the spotted bass from other black bass species such as the largemouth bass and shoal bass.
Habitat:
They prefer small to medium streams and rivers with clear, slow-moving water, and gravel or rock bottoms. Seldom found in natural lakes, and they do not enter brackish water.
Behavior:
Grow slower than largemouth bass and do not attain as large a size as other black bass.
Additional Information
State Record: 3.75 lbs.
Big Catch minimum: 16 inches or 2 lbs.
Fishing Tips and Facts: Strong fighters when caught on light tackle. Popular lures and baits include jigs, crankbaits, spinners, small plastic worms and crayfish.
Image Credit: Duane Raver, Jr.
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