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Spotted Bass

Spotted Bass

Spotted Bass in California are actually comprised of two species: the true Spotted Bass (Micropterus punctulatus) and Alabama Bass (Micropterus henshalli), with Alabama Bass being the more widely introduced species throughout California waters.

These fish are non-native, introduced in 1974, but have established thriving populations in many reservoirs and lakes.

Scientific Name: Micropterus punctulatus and Micropterus henshalli

Also known as Alabama Bass

Physical Characteristics:
  • Spotted Bass are distinguished by rows of dark spots below the lateral line, a smaller mouth that doesn't extend past the eye, and scales on the base of the second dorsal fin.
  • They typically grow to 18 inches and 3-5 pounds, though California's favorable conditions have produced world-record specimens, including the current world record Alabama Bass of 11 pounds, 4 ounces from New Bullards Bar Reservoir.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer deeper, clearer waters than largemouth bass and are more tolerant of current and cooler temperatures.
  • Spotted Bass are habitat generalists with an affinity for open water and current, frequently suspending to feed on baitfish schools.
  • They prefer main lake areas and often dominate these zones once established, pushing other bass species into tributary areas.

Key Locations

  • New Bullards Bar Reservoir (world record waters), Pine Flat Lake, Lake Shasta, Bullards Bar Reservoir, Lake Oroville, and Folsom Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on long, gradually sloping main lake points that taper into 50-60 feet of water, rocky bluff ends, standing timber, and offshore structure in 10-40 feet of water.
  • Target depths of 15-50 feet around main lake structure, and don't hesitate to fish offshore where Spotted Bass commonly suspend.
  • Deep-diving crankbaits work well for fish holding 10-16 feet deep along mid-depth ledges.

Spotted Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Spotted Bass in California?

Shaky head jigs with 4-6 inch straight-tail worms in green pumpkin or watermelon colors, paired with 1/8 to 1/4 ounce jigheads. Dr.op-shot rigs with the same worms. Kokanee-imitating swimbaits or clear/kokanee colored magnum Senkos rigged wacky style. Deep-diving crankbaits. Jigging spoons.

When is the best time to fish for Spotted Bass in California?

Spring through early summer for peak activity. They spawn when water temperatures reach 63-78°F, typically March to April in southern California and May to June in northern regions. During winter, drag heavy jigs with craw trailers 15-30 feet deep along bluff ends and main lake points.

How do you catch Spotted Bass in California?

Shaky head jigs, drop-shot rigs, wacky style rigging, jigging spoons when you locate baitfish schools on electronics. Forward-facing sonar is extremely valuable for locating these roaming, schooling fish in open water.

What do Spotted Bass eat?

These bass are opportunistic feeders, consuming shad, minnows, crayfish, aquatic insects, and in California's trout-rich waters, often feed heavily on kokanee salmon and planted trout.

Where do Spotted Bass live in California?

They prefer deeper, clearer waters than largemouth bass and are more tolerant of current and cooler temperatures. Spotted Bass are habitat generalists with an affinity for open water and current, frequently suspending to feed on baitfish schools.

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