Spotted Bass Fishing Tips

Preparation

Spotted bass are generally found in the Southeast and north to Kentucky and Tennessee. They rarely exceed 3 to 4 lbs. although fishermen have caught them up to 10 lbs. Light to ultra-light tackle and lines should be adequate, and lines need be no more than 10-lb. test.

The fish will eat anything from worms to small ducklings. Carry smaller lures than for largemouth bass because the spotted bass have smaller mouths, or use flies, worms or other live bait.

Most fishermen recommend spinnerbaits. But because the spotted bass is curious and will investigate unusual lures, fishermen use other baits as well. Some anglers prefer nymphs, crayfish and baitfish patterns, or terrestrials or poppers. As with all bass, some baits will work well on one day but not on another, so change them if the number of bites decrease.

Fly fishermen report their best success with white and yellow streamers, woolly buggers or clouser minnows.

Habitat

Like other bass, spotted bass usually live around aquatic vegetation such as lily pads, semi-submerged grass and water plants where insects collect. They like to rest under submerged logs, rocks and riprap along flowing streams and lakes, especially when the weather is hotter. Generally, look for them in structure along rocky shorelines and coves, where they sometimes school.

Spotted bass become active at 52 to 54 degrees but prefer waters between 70 and 78 degrees. Many fishermen report September and October are the best times for spotted bass fishing, but it depends on local water temperatures. During hotter parts of the day spotted bass will descend to lake bottoms to remain cool, requiring deeper casts.

During the spring, the fish prefer to spawn or bottoms of rock or gravel. An angler can take them in 4 to 10 feet of water using jerkbaits and tubes.

Cautions

Spotted bass have an exceptional sense of smell. Do not use hand creams or soaps with odors. Or else use commercial products to hide the smell when handling bait, lures and tackle.

When approaching spotted bass in clear water, take precautions. The fish will spook easily. Do not wave the rod around unnecessarily when casting. Do not make noises inside the boat, such as sliding a tackle box. Avoid large shadows on the water. Use the smallest line possible to reduce visibility, such as an 8-lb. test, and do not exceed a 10-lb. test.