ND Largemouth Bass Fishing Guide

Sunfish Family: Sunfish family members are deep and stockily built, attractive in coloration and popular as panfish. Most sunfish spawn in early summer, when water temperatures warm to the mid-60 and low 70-degree range. Male sunfish build nests by excavating soft substrate with their fins to expose sand, gravel, roots or other firm objects for females to lay their eggs over.

Identification: Dorsal fin has a spiny front portion and a soft-rayed rear portion Dorsal fin is almost separated into two parts The back and upper sides are dark green and the sides have dark irregular patches The mouth is large, with the end of the upper jaw extending to or beyond the rear margin of the eye

Notes: Largemouth bass prefers small lake habitat, with ample shallow water and weed beds. These bass typically feed on other fish, especially bluegill when they are present. They are more common in southern states, where water is warmer throughout the year. They are excellent fighters on hook and line, being a favorite pursuit of anglers for their sporting qualities.

Habitat & Range

Largemouth bass prefers small lake habitat, with ample shallow water and weed beds. These bass typically feed on other fish, especially bluegill when they are present. They are more common in southern states, where water is warmer throughout the year. They are excellent fighters on hook and line, being a favorite pursuit of anglers for their sporting qualities.

Fishing Season

Open year-round (April 1 – March 31)

License & Regulations

A valid North Dakota fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Resident and non-resident licenses are available. Two free fishing days per year (typically in June and December) allow fishing without a license. Purchase licenses online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website.

References

• North Dakota — Largemouth Bass