How to Identify Spotted Bass

To identify Spotted Bass (Micropterus punctulatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Generally olive-green to brown on the back, fading to lighter green or white on the belly. A distinct lateral band of dark, diamond-shaped blotches runs along the sides, often broken into individual spots. The lower sides have rows of small, dark spots, which give the fish its common name. The operculum (gill cover) often has a dark spot.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Rows of small, dark spots below the lateral line., Upper jaw does not extend beyond the rear margin of the eye when the mouth is closed (a key differentiator from Largemouth Bass)., A patch of teeth on the tongue (a key differentiator from Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass)., Pyloric caeca are unbranched (a key internal differentiator).

Dorsal fin

Deeply notched dorsal fin, appearing almost separated into two fins. The spiny anterior portion has 9-11 spines, and the soft-rayed posterior portion has 11-14 rays.

Tail fin

Slightly forked caudal fin, typically dark with a lighter margin.

Pectoral fin

Rounded pectoral fins, typically with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 spines and 9-11 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Tongue Patch

   Run a finger over the tongue; Spotted Bass have a distinct patch of teeth on their tongue, which is absent in Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass.

2. 2

   Upper Jaw Extension

   With the mouth closed, the upper jaw (maxilla) of a Spotted Bass typically does not extend beyond the rear margin of the eye. In Largemouth Bass, it extends well past the eye.

3. 3

   Lateral Spots

   Look for distinct rows of small, dark spots below the lateral line, particularly on the lower sides. While Largemouth Bass have a dark lateral band, they lack these distinct rows of spots.

4. 4

   Pyloric Caeca

   Internally, Spotted Bass have unbranched pyloric caeca, whereas Largemouth Bass have branched caeca. This is a definitive but invasive identification method.

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