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Largemouth Bass

Micropterus salmoides

A highly recognizable North American freshwater predator with a large mouth and green flank pattern.

Freshwater
Largemouth bass in shallow water
USFWS Mountain Prairie, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

  • Mouth extends past the rear edge of the eye.
  • Green body with a dark horizontal stripe along the side.
  • Deep body and divided dorsal fin.

Habitat

Warm lakes, ponds, reservoirs, backwaters, and slow rivers with vegetation or cover.

Bait notes

Soft plastics, jigs, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, frogs, and live minnows are common choices.

Behavior

Ambush predator that holds near weeds, wood, docks, rocks, and shade lines.

Caution

Check local size limits, seasons, and catch rules before harvesting.

Fishing notes

Fish cover methodically and adjust depth by season, light, and water temperature.