- 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
- Washoe
- Humboldt
- Pershing
- Churchill
- Mineral
- Lyon
- Douglas
- Carson City
- Storey
- Elko
- Lander
- Eureka
- White Pine
- Esmeralda
- Nye
- Lincoln
- 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.