Spotted Bass
Spotted Bass (Micropterus punctulatus) are not native to Iowa and have an extremely limited presence in the state.
Scientific Name: Micropterus punctulatus
Also known as Kentucky Spotted Bass
- They are distinguished from largemouth bass by having scales on the base of the second dorsal fin, clearly connected first and second dorsal fins, and an upper jaw that doesn't extend past the eye.
- They display rows of dark spots below the lateral line and have a broad dark stripe along the side with more broken margins than largemouth bass.
- In Iowa waters, they typically reach 3.75 inches in the first year, 7 inches by the second year, 10 inches in the third year, and 12 inches in the fourth year, with a maximum weight around 3 pounds.
Fishing in Iowa
Iowa River
South Skunk River
Lake Red Rock
Saylorville Lake
Cedar River
Des Moines River
Raccoon River
Middle River
Big Creek
Union Grove Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- The primary established population exists in Lake Macbride where Spotted Bass fingerlings were stocked in 1969 and 1970, creating a reproducing population.
- They have also been recently collected in Coralville Reservoir and likely inhabit the Iowa River near the reservoir.
- Lake Macbride remains the only lake in Iowa where anglers can catch Kentucky Spotted Bass in significant numbers.
Key Locations
- Lake Macbride, Coralville Reservoir, Middle Raccoon River, Whitebreast Creek, Iowa River near the reservoir.
Specific Spots
- Target them near rocks and close to shorelines, rocky areas, points, and structure rather than heavy vegetation.
- They prefer rocky habitat.
Spotted Bass FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Spotted Bass in Iowa?
Lures that resemble crayfish, lures and baits that imitate crayfish, small minnows, or aquatic insects.
When is the best time to fish for Spotted Bass in Iowa?
The optimal fishing periods are late spring through fall, with particularly good action in summer and early fall when water temperatures are stable. During spawning season (spring), these fish should be left undisturbed as they are reproducing and are more vulnerable.
How do you catch Spotted Bass in Iowa?
Focus fishing efforts around rocky areas, points, and structure rather than heavy vegetation. Thorough coverage of likely spots is important.
What do Spotted Bass eat?
Spotted Bass are less predatory than largemouth bass, with fish making up about 56% of their diet compared to largemouth bass eating about twice as much fish. They feed on aquatic insects, crustaceans, crayfish, small fish including minnows and shad, and occasionally amphibians.
Where do Spotted Bass live in Iowa?
The primary established population exists in Lake Macbride where Spotted Bass fingerlings were stocked in 1969 and 1970, creating a reproducing population. They have also been recently collected in Coralville Reservoir and likely inhabit the Iowa River near the reservoir.
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