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White Bass

White Bass

White Bass are a native freshwater temperate bass species found primarily in the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee river systems in North Florida, though rare specimens have been located in the Escambia and Yellow rivers.

Scientific Name: Morone chrysops

Also known as silver bass, sand bass

Physical Characteristics:
  • These silvery-white fish are characterized by five to eight horizontal dusky black stripes along their sides, with stripes below the lateral line being faint and often broken.
  • They have a stockier build than striped bass, with a smaller head and dorsal fins set closer together.
  • White bass are schooling fish that average 10-15 inches and 1-2 pounds, though they can reach up to 17 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found primarily in the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee river systems in North Florida, though rare specimens have been located in the Escambia and Yellow rivers.

Key Locations

  • Key locations include the Apalachicola River tailwaters below dams, Lake Talquin, and creek mouths throughout the river systems.
  • Focus efforts at the mouths of inflowing creeks and rivers on the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee systems, following the fish upstream during their spawning runs.
  • Live bait works exceptionally well, especially below Jim Woodruff Dam on the Apalachicola River.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with current and structure.

White Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small shad-imitating patterns: lipless crankbaits like Rat-L-Traps in chrome or shad patterns, 2-3 inch curly tail grubs in white or chartreuse on 1/16-1/4 ounce jigheads, inline spinners like Rooster Tails, small diving crankbaits, hair jigs, and swimbaits.

What flies work for White Bass in Florida?

Patterns like Clouser Minnows, Woolly Buggers, and small streamers in white, chartreuse, and shad colors.

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

Fall through spring when they're actively feeding, particularly during their pre-spawn period when water temperatures hit 50-55°F. During spawning season (typically late February through April), these fish should be avoided to protect their reproductive success.

How do you catch White Bass in Florida?

When schools are located, anchor and fish vertically with jigs or spoons. Fish early morning and late evening hours, targeting areas with current and structure.

What do White Bass eat?

These predatory fish are primarily piscivorous, feeding heavily on threadfin and gizzard shad, as well as minnows, crustaceans, and insects. Fry initially feed on zooplankton before transitioning to larger prey as they mature.

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