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Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass are a native temperate bass species in Alabama. These schooling fish prefer medium to large tributaries and backwater areas of reservoirs and rivers.

Scientific Name: Morone mississippiensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Characterized by their distinctive yellowish-gold body and eye coloration with black longitudinal stripes that run continuously along the back but are distinctly broken along the lower sides and belly.
  • Adults typically measure 8-11 inches and have a complete lateral line with 50-55 scales.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Alabama, Yellow Bass are native to the lower Tombigbee and Tennessee rivers as well as the Mobile Delta, distributed from the Mobile basin west to the San Jacinto River in Texas.
  • They have been introduced to select areas of the upper Cahaba River system including Lake Purdy, the Black Warrior River, and Inland Lake.

Key Locations

  • Target backwater areas, medium to large tributaries, and reservoir systems along the Tennessee River, Tombigbee River, Mobile Delta, Cahaba River system including Lake Purdy, and Black Warrior River areas.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on areas with slow-moving water and baitfish schools, casting light jigs near structure like rocky points, submerged timber, drop-offs, and bridge pilings in 6-20 feet of water.

Yellow Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Effective lures include 1/32-1/8 oz jigs tipped with soft plastics like minnows or curly-tail grubs, small spoons and blade baits for vertical jigging, cricket lures, crappie tubes, and u-tail grubs in green, brown, and red colors. Football jigs work well as they're less likely to snag on bottom structure.

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

Most productive outside their April-May spawning period, with prime opportunities during spring through fall months. During spawning season (April-May), anglers should avoid targeting these fish to protect the reproductive cycle.

How do you catch Yellow Bass in Alabama?

Vertical jigging is particularly effective when targeting deeper schools. A drop shot rig is highly effective for keeping lures at the proper depth where these fish feed. Use a relatively quick retrieve to trigger strikes.

What do Yellow Bass eat?

Yellow Bass feed primarily on insect larvae and small fishes including minnows, silversides, and small threadfin shad.

Where do Yellow Bass live in Alabama?

In Alabama, Yellow Bass are native to the lower Tombigbee and Tennessee rivers as well as the Mobile Delta, distributed from the Mobile basin west to the San Jacinto River in Texas. They have been introduced to select areas of the upper Cahaba River system including Lake Purdy, the Black Warrior River, and Inland Lake.

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