Spotted Bass

One of the several black basses found in a few northern Nevada waters such as Lahontan and Rye Patch reservoirs and Sparks Marina Pond. Green to dark green on back and sides with a white belly. Rows of spots along the lower sides below the dark lateral stripe. Dorsal fins are connected and not separated into two distinct fins. Upper jaw extends to the back of the eye, but not beyond the eye as in the largemouth bass.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Micropterus punctulatus
CLASSIFICATION
Fish
LIFE SPAN
6-7 Years
SIZE
20-20” | 1-5lbs
STATE CONSERVATION STATUS
  • Unprotected
FEDERAL CONSERVATION STATUS
Least Concern
GAME STATUS
Game
  1. Washoe
  2. Humboldt
  3. Pershing
  4. Churchill
  5. Mineral
  6. Lyon
  7. Douglas
  8. Carson City
  9. Storey
  1. Elko
  2. Lander
  3. Eureka
  4. White Pine
  1. Esmeralda
  2. Nye
  3. Lincoln
  4. Clark

Habitat & Range

The Spotted Bass is native to the Ohio River and central Mississippi River basins south to the gulf coast of Florida and Texas. It has been introduced extensively throughout North America. In Nevada, it can be found in the Humboldt River basin, Lahontan Reservoir, Sparks Marina, and elsewhere. Spotted bass are usually found in stillwaters such as lakes and reservoirs.

Threats

  • Predation from carp eating eggs during spawn

Natural History

Many anglers tend to confuse the Spotted Bass with the Largemouth because of their similar coloration. However, the Spotted Bass will have a smaller mouth. Spotted Bass are known for being on a constant mean streak with highly aggressive attacks on their targets, making them a popular species for anglers across the country.