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White Bass

White Bass

White Bass are widely distributed in Alabama but not generally abundant except in the Tennessee and Chattahoochee river systems. They're a member of the temperate bass family and are aggressive predators.

Scientific Name: Morone chrysops

Physical Characteristics:
  • Adult white bass typically measure 10-15 inches and can be distinguished from striped bass by having only one tooth patch on the tongue (striped bass have two).
  • They have 4-7 dark horizontal stripes on their silver sides, with the stripe at the lateral line being continuous to the tail while upper stripes are broken or offset.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • White bass inhabit surface and pelagic areas of rivers, reservoirs, and large streams, preferring open water of lakes and deep pools with slow-moving water in rivers.

Key Locations

  • Target areas include Lake Lewis Smith, the Tennessee River system, Chattahoochee River, and various Coosa River lakes including Mitchell, Jordan, and Eufaula.
  • Look for them along riprap, downed trees, and structures below dams, particularly on the Tennessee River near Florence in Lauderdale County.

Specific Spots

  • Focus efforts at mouths of inflowing creeks and rivers.
  • Look for them along riprap, downed trees, and structures below dams.

White Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for White Bass in Alabama?

Effective lures include small jigs with curly tail grubs in white or chartreuse, 1/32 to 1/4 ounce marabou jigs, inline spinners like Rooster Tails in white and silver, small lipless crankbaits, and road runners. Since white bass rely heavily on shad, match lure size to 1-2 inch baitfish.

What flies work for White Bass in Alabama?

For fly fishing, use size 2-6 Clouser Minnows in olive/white, size 4-10 Woolly Buggers in white, and Chocklett's Finesse Changer in shad patterns.

When is the best time to fish for White Bass in Alabama?

The best time to fish for white bass in Alabama is spring (March-May) when water temperatures reach 50-55°F. Peak fishing occurs mid-March through early May. They spawn from March to April when water temperatures reach 53-68°F.

How do you catch White Bass in Alabama?

Fish near the bottom with steady retrieves, or try vertical jigging over ledges and channel breaks.

Where do White Bass live in Alabama?

White bass inhabit surface and pelagic areas of rivers, reservoirs, and large streams, preferring open water of lakes and deep pools with slow-moving water in rivers.

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