The spotted bass, also known as spotty or spots, belongs to the sunfish family (Centrarchidae) within the order Perciformes. It shares similarities with other black bass species, but can be distinguished by the rows of dark spots below its lateral line, which give it its common name. While often mistaken for the more widespread largemouth bass, a spotted bass can be identified by its smaller mouth size, despite resembling the largemouth bass in terms of coloration.
Spotted bass are native to the Mississippi River basin and Gulf states, ranging from central Texas through the Florida panhandle. Their habitat extends into the western Mid-Atlantic states, and they have been introduced to western North Carolina and Virginia. This species has also been introduced to southern Africa, where it has become established as an invasive species in some isolated waters.
Preferring cool and warm mountain streams, as well as reservoirs with rocky bottoms, the spotted bass exhibits habitat preferences distinct from closely related species such as the largemouth and smallmouth bass. It can be found in areas with more water current than the largemouth bass and typically inhabits warm, turbid, and sluggish environments unsuitable for smallmouth bass. Spotted bass are often found near aquatic vegetation, submerged logs, and rock or riprap walls in flowing streams, rivers, and reservoirs.
The spotted bass has a diverse diet consisting of insects, crustaceans, frogs, annelid worms, and smaller fish. While it falls between the largemouth and smallmouth bass in terms of predation, the spotted bass consumes only about half the amount of fish compared to the largemouth bass. Like other bass species, it feeds by creating a negative pressure in its mouth, sucking in prey. Juveniles of the spotted bass resemble young smallmouth bass, displaying a distinctive color pattern at the base of their tail.
Spawning for the spotted bass occurs from April to May, primarily in habitats similar to those used by smallmouth bass. Male spotted bass construct nests in gravel or other substrates, enticing females to deposit their eggs. The males diligently guard the eggs until they disperse. In certain reservoirs, hybridization between spotted and smallmouth bass has been observed, indicating occasional competition between the two species for spawning habitat. The average lifespan of a spotted bass is approximately six years.
The spotted bass holds significant importance as a game fish, attracting anglers with its sporting qualities. Anglers often enjoy the thrill of catching this species, making it a popular target for recreational fishing. In terms of culinary value, the spotted bass is also considered a good food fish suitable for human consumption. Its meat exhibits desirable flavors and textures, making it a choice option for those who appreciate freshwater fish cuisine.