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Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass (Morone mississippiensis) are relatively uncommon temperate bass found in Indiana waters, primarily in Lake Michigan tributaries and the Ohio River system. These small but scrappy fish are considered excellent table fare with white, flaky meat.

Scientific Name: Morone mississippiensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These small but scrappy fish typically measure 6-12 inches and weigh under a pound, though the current world record of 4 pounds, 5 ounces was caught at Morse Reservoir in Indiana in 2023.
  • Yellow bass are easily identified by their golden-yellow sides, 5-7 dark lateral stripes (with lower stripes broken or offset above the anal fin), olive-green back, and lack of tooth patches on the tongue.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in Indiana waters, primarily in Lake Michigan tributaries and the Ohio River system.

Key Locations

  • In Indiana, they're documented in Lake Michigan, the Little Calumet-Galien watershed, and the Ohio River.
  • Productive Indiana waters include Morse Reservoir (Hamilton County), areas of Lake Michigan near the Indiana shoreline, and the Ohio River system.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deeper areas (10-20 feet) around structure like submerged timber, rocky points, drop-offs, and bridge pilings.
  • Areas with dense cover like submerged timber and rocky structures.
  • Fish sandy or gravelly bottoms near current breaks and structure, and look for baitfish schools since yellow bass actively hunt in open water rather than ambushing prey from cover.
  • Unlike other bass species, yellow bass tend to inhabit deeper parts of lakes and reservoirs (10-20 feet) except during spawning.

Yellow Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small lures like 1/32-1/8 oz jigs tipped with minnow-shaped soft plastics, crappie tubes, or curly-tail grubs in green, brown, and red colors. Small spoons and blade baits. Live bait is highly effective - use small minnows, shiners, or nightcrawlers.

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

Spring and fall when water temperatures are between 60-80°F, avoiding the May spawning period. Summer fishing is productive during early morning and evening hours.

How do you catch Yellow Bass in Indiana?

The drop shot rig is the most effective technique. Vertical jigging with small spoons and blade baits works well for suspended schools. Use slip bobber rigs to maintain proper depth while avoiding bottom snags. Yellow bass respond to fast retrieves and aggressive presentations since they're opportunistic feeders.

What do Yellow Bass eat?

Juveniles eating copepods and aquatic insects while adults primarily feed on small fish, crayfish, and crustaceans.

Where do Yellow Bass live in Indiana?

Found in Indiana waters, primarily in Lake Michigan tributaries and the Ohio River system.

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