Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted bass (Micropterus punctulatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Centrarchidae that grows up to 64 cm.
Fresh water of central and south-eastern North America, in clear, flowing rivers and lakes with stony and gravel bottoms.
Description
The spotted bass is a streamlined sunfish of the family Centrarchidae reaching about 64 cm but usually smaller. The greenish body has a broken dark midline stripe with rows of small spots beneath it set in neat lengthwise rows. The species resembles the well-known largemouth bass but stays smaller and prefers current. It lives in clear, flowing rivers and lakes with stone and gravel bottoms in central and southeastern North America. As a predator it hunts small fish, crustaceans, insects and crayfish. The male makes a nest pit on gravel and fiercely guards the eggs and young. Because of its fierce fight it is a prized sport fish and has been stocked beyond its range.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted bass?
The Spotted bass has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Streamlined black bass with a dark lateral stripe above rows of spots; resembles the largemouth bass but stays smaller.
Where does the Spotted bass live?
The Spotted bass lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of central and south-eastern North America, in clear, flowing rivers and lakes with stony and gravel bottoms.
How big does the Spotted bass get?
The Spotted bass grows to a maximum of about 64 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Spotted bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted bass is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted bass edible?
Yes, the Spotted bass is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Micropterus
More from the family Centrarchidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.