Spotted bass and largemouth bass are both cherished by anglers for their impressive size, delicious taste, and energetic fighting spirit when hooked. These carnivorous freshwater fish originate from the eastern and central United States, belonging to the genus Micropterus, also known as black bass, in the sunfish family. Despite the similarities in appearance between the two, it’s important for anglers to distinguish them, as different states have varying regulations on catching them.
This article aims to help fishing enthusiasts better identify the differences between the spotted bass and the largemouth bass by discussing nine significant distinctions. As they are often found in regions such as Alabama, Georgia, and the Gulf States, and most notably in the waters of the Coosa River, it is essential to be familiar with their distinct features to protect and preserve these remarkable freshwater species.
Comparing Spotted Bass and Largemouth Bass
Spotted bass and largemouth bass are two popular freshwater game fish species, both belonging to the black bass family. Here are the key differences between them:
Size: Spotted bass can grow up to 25 inches long and weigh up to 11 pounds, while largemouth bass can reach 29.5 inches and weigh as much as 22 pounds, 4 ounces.
Lifespan: Spotted bass typically live for 6-7 years, while largemouth bass can live for 10-16 years.
Diet: Spotted bass enjoy eating small fish, crayfish, and aquatic insects. Largemouth bass, on the other hand, have a diverse diet, including shrimp, worms, frogs, and even small mammals.
Habitat: Spotted bass prefer warmer, fast-moving water, whereas largemouth bass thrive in clear, slow-moving water.
Appearance: Spotted bass have smaller cheek scales, a dark lateral line, and more prominent spots on their lower sides. Largemouth bass have larger cheek scales, a lighter lateral line, and less noticeable spots.
Dorsal Fin: The dorsal fin on spotted bass is connected, while it is separated in largemouth bass.
Jawline: The jaw of a spotted bass stops at their eye, while the jaw of a largemouth bass extends past the eye.
The 9 Key Differences Between Spotted Bass and Largemouth Bass
Spotted vs Largemouth: Size Differences
Largemouth bass tend to be significantly larger compared to spotted bass. While the average spotted bass can grow up to 25 inches long and weigh up to 11 pounds, the largest largemouth bass can reach lengths of up to 29.5 inches and weigh up to 22 pounds, 4 ounces.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Lifespan Variations
Spotted bass have a shorter lifespan than largemouth bass, with most living up to 6 years in the wild. In contrast, largemouth bass can live between 10-16 years.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Diet Differences
Although both species have similar diets as juveniles, their diets diverge as they grow older. Adult spotted bass mainly consume small fish, while adult largemouth bass are apex predators with a more varied diet, including frogs, snakes, bats, and small mammals.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Preferred Habitats
Spotted bass typically reside in fast-moving rivers or streams with rocky bottoms, while largemouth bass favor slower-moving, clearer water. Spotted bass also tolerate warmer water better than largemouth bass.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Distinct Jawlines
Largemouth bass have a more prominent jawline that extends past their eye, compared to spotted bass, whose jawline ends right in line with their eye.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Scale Differences
The scales on the cheeks of spotted and largemouth bass differ in size and arrangement. Spotted bass have smaller lower cheek scales, while largemouth bass scales remain consistent in size throughout their cheeks.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Dorsal Fin Variations
Though both species have spiny and soft dorsal fins, spotted bass have a connecting membrane between the fins, while largemouth bass fins are almost entirely separate.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Color and Pattern
Spotted bass appear brownish-green while largemouth bass are olive-green. Spotted bass also have dark spots that run in thin, dark lines along their lower sides.
Spotted vs Largemouth: Lateral Line Characteristics
The lateral line, a sensory organ, reveals subtle differences in the scales between the two species. Spotted bass have dark-edged and prominent scales near the lateral line, while largemouth bass have less pronounced scales, giving a smoother appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Differences Between Spotted Bass and Largemouth Bass
Spotted bass and largemouth bass are both popular targets for anglers due to their exciting game characteristics and being considered good eating fish. Here are some common questions related to these species:
Conservation Status: Spotted and largemouth bass are currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Catch and release practices help maintain healthy populations for sport fishing. However, they are considered invasive in Southern Africa where they were introduced.
Breeding Season: Bass generally spawn their eggs during spring. Males create nests in rivers and streams, and females deposit the eggs, which males then fertilize. The males guard the nests for several weeks until the infant bass can swim on their own.
Fishing Techniques: Anglers use various techniques to catch these bass, including lures and natural baits like minnows, crawfish, and worms. Bass are attracted to structure and can often be found in shallower waters with clear water clarity.
Preferred Prey: Both spotted and largemouth bass feed on small fish, aquatic insects, crayfish, and other prey like frogs and insects.
Regulations: Fishing regulations for bass vary by location, so it’s essential to be aware of specific rules and regulations in the area where you plan to fish.
Best Season to Fish: Although bass can be caught year-round, spring is often considered the best season due to their active spawning behaviors and warmer water temperatures.
Improve your angling skills with the right fishing gear, knowledge of baits and lures, and an understanding of the behavior and habitats of these popular gamefish. Good luck and have fun fishing!