Science Name: | Morone mississippiensis |
Other Names: | Striper |
Ideal Temp: | 75 to 82 |
Environment: | lakes |
Techniques: | medium tackle |
Yellow bass, like other members of the sea bass family are spring spawners. They prefer gravel or rock substrate for spawning, but unlike other sea basses they do not appear to require flowing water, and they temporarily pair during spawning. Eggs are usually deposited in two to three feet of water. At water temperatures of 70 °F eggs hatch in four to six days. Yellow bass are slow growers, reaching four or five inches the first years, and only growing one to two inches per year thereafter. They reach sexual maturity in only two years (six to seven inches).
Where to Find
Although native populations do exist in areas of Oklahoma, Texas, and
Mississippi, the species was primarily restricted to the Mississippi River from
Minnesota to Louisianna. Introduced populations ocurr as far west as Arizona, as
far north as Wisconsin and Iowa, and as far east as central Tennessee.
Habitat
Schools are most often found in midwater or near the surface.
Feeding Habits
Young fish feed primarily on fish, crustaceans, and insects. Adults often eat
large quantities of fish, and may even cannibalize their own young.
Food Habits The diet is mainly fish. Yellow bass feed heavily in the shallows in early morning and in evening. They roam deep water in midday, feeding sporadically.
Table Quality The white, firm, flaky meat is very good eating, better than that of white bass.
Sporting Qualities Although smaller than white bass, yellow bass are surprisingly tough fighters. They have similar pack-feeding habits, but are less likely to feed on the surface. The most effective I lures and baits are jigs, flies, spoons, spinners, small plugs, minnows and worms.
Age and Growth Yellow bass are slow growing and short-lived. A few live to age 7, but the average is only 3 to 4.
Tips for Fishing