How to Identify Wiper

To identify Wiper (Morone chrysops x Morone saxatilis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Silvery body with dark, broken, or interrupted horizontal stripes along the sides. The back is typically darker, ranging from olive-green to dark gray.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Broken or interrupted lateral stripes (a key differentiator from pure Striped Bass which have solid lines)., Deep body, more robust than a White Bass but less streamlined than a Striped Bass., Two dorsal fins, the first spiny and the second soft-rayed.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is spiny with 9-11 spines, and the second is soft-rayed with 12-15 rays. The two fins are distinctly separate or only barely connected at the base.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, typically clear to slightly dusky.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 spines and 11-13 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Lateral Stripes

   Observe the horizontal stripes along the body. Wipers typically have 4-8 prominent dark stripes, with at least some of them being noticeably broken or interrupted, especially below the lateral line. Pure Striped Bass have solid, unbroken lines, while White Bass have fainter, often fewer, and sometimes broken lines.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Wipers have a deeper body than a White Bass but are generally not as elongated or torpedo-shaped as a pure Striped Bass. They possess a more 'stocky' appearance.

3. 3

   Tooth Patches on Tongue

   Carefully examine the tongue. Wipers typically have two distinct patches of teeth on their tongue, similar to a Striped Bass. White Bass have only one patch.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fins

   The two dorsal fins are usually distinctly separate or only barely connected at the base, unlike some other species where they might be more fused.

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