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Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass are small temperate bass native to the Mississippi and Tennessee River drainages, including the upper northwest corner of Georgia.

However, they've been illegally introduced to other Georgia waters and are now considered an Aquatic Nuisance Species.

Scientific Name: Morone mississippiensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their golden-yellow coloration, 5-7 dark horizontal stripes (with broken stripes below the lateral line), and lack of tooth patches on the tongue.
  • Adults typically measure 6-12 inches and weigh under a pound, though they can reach up to 16 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Native to the Mississippi and Tennessee River drainages, including the upper northwest corner of Georgia.
  • They prefer slow-moving waters with sandy bottoms and areas that provide access to shallow spawning grounds.

Key Locations

  • Coosa, Etowah, and Oostanaula rivers, Rocky Mountain Public Fishing Area, and Carter's Lake.
  • At Carter's Lake, focus on areas near Ridgeway Park, Doll Mountain, and tributary creek mouths.

Specific Spots

  • Target them in 6-20 feet of water around structure like rocky points, submerged timber, drop-offs, and bridge pilings.
  • They suspend over submerged structure in 15-30 feet of water.
  • Evening surface activity around creek mouths and deep coves.
  • During spawning they move to shallow tributaries.

Yellow Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

1/32-1/8 oz jigs tipped with soft plastics like minnows or curly-tail grubs. Small crappie jigs in vibrant colors for muddy water or gray/silver for clear conditions. Small spoons and blade baits. Live bait including small minnows, shiners, and nightcrawlers.

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

Yellow Bass fishing is excellent in spring and early summer when they're aggressive pre-spawn, and again in fall. Fish early morning or evening during summer months when water temperatures are in the preferred 60-80 degree range.

How do you catch Yellow Bass in Georgia?

The most effective rig is a drop shot with 1/32-1/8 oz jigs tipped with soft plastics. Football jigs work well for bottom fishing. Vertical jigging with small spoons and blade baits is productive, especially when using sonar to locate schools near the bottom.

What do Yellow Bass eat?

Juveniles primarily eating copepods and aquatic insects, while adults feed mainly on small fish, minnows, shiners, and shad, plus small crustaceans. Yellow Bass are voracious feeders.

Where do Yellow Bass live in Georgia?

Native to the Mississippi and Tennessee River drainages, including the upper northwest corner of Georgia. They prefer slow-moving waters with sandy bottoms and areas that provide access to shallow spawning grounds.

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