Science Name: | Morone saxatilis x Morone chrysops |
Other Names: | Sunshine Bass, Wiper, Whiterock Bass |
Ideal Temp: | 70 to 75 |
World Record: | 27 lbs. 5 oz. Ar. |
Environment: | river and lakes |
Techniques: | light tackle, casting, fly |
Range: | east of Mississippi |
Where to Find
Hybrid striped bass distribution is limited to freshwater and to places with a
good population of baitfish, principally members of the herring family.
Nevertheless, stocking programs have resulted in plantings of these fish in
lakes and reservoirs in more than 30 states, from California to New York and
from Nebraska to Florida. The greatest concentration is throughout the southern
half of the country, and the most fishing opportunity is in the southeast.
Habitat
Whiterock and sunshine bass inhabit the same freshwater habitats as their
parents, primarily large lakes and reservoirs, but they also thrive in midsize
to large rivers and occasionally in small lakes or ponds. They are largely
nomadic in those environments and are found in the same places as their parents,
sometimes commingling with them, mostly in open-water environs or in the
tailrace below dams. They are seldom found near shore or docks or piers, except
when chasing schools of baitfish.
Feeding Habits
Like stripers, sunshines are voracious feeders and consume any kind of small
fish including threadfin and gizzard shad. Young fish also feed on mayflies and
crustaceans. Sunshines also travel and feed in schools with peak activity in the
early morning or evening.