Spotted bass are not native and readily hybridize with other black bass species such as the redeye bass.
Range: Upper Savannah River drainage, primarily lakes Keowee, Russell, Jocassee and Hartwell; also introduced into tributaries of the Enoree, Saluda and Savannah rivers and in the Catawba River reservoirs upstream of the state line.
Commonly Mistaken Species: Some species of fish that are commonly mistaken for this species:
Largemouth bass Redeye bass Smallmouth bass
Habitat & Range
The spotted bass is found in medium to large cool and warm mountain streams and reservoirs. It adapts well and outcompetes other black basses such as the largemouth or smallmouth as it is more tolerant of excess sediment.
Life History
Spawning: - Spotted bass reach sexual maturity at age 2 or 3 and begin spawning activity in April and May when water temperatures reach 65°F.
- Males construct shallow saucer-shaped nests on soft, clay bottoms or on gravel bars.
- The female will lay 3,000 to 30,000 eggs.
- The male guards the nest with eggs hatching in 4 or 5 days.
Diet: - Major foods for spotted bass are crayfish, aquatic insects and fish such as shad. Spotted bass eat fewer fish than other blackbass species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
11.8-24 inches 1-3 pounds
Lifespan
: Approximately 5 years
State Record
: 8-pounds, 5-ounces (2001)
