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White Bass

White Bass

White Bass are native to Louisiana and widely distributed throughout the state's freshwater systems. They reach the southernmost limits of their native range in Louisiana. These schooling fish are aggressive predators and opportunistic visual feeders.

Scientific Name: Morone chrysops

Also known as sand bass, silver bass

Physical Characteristics:
  • Typically grow 10-15 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds, though Louisiana's Amite River produced one of the world record White Bass at 6 pounds, 13 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Inhabit major water bodies throughout Louisiana's freshwater systems including various lakes and oxbows throughout the state.

Key Locations

  • Mississippi River, Red River, Atchafalaya River and Basin, Toledo Bend Reservoir, Caddo Lake, various Red River pools, Mississippi River oxbows like Yucatan Lake and Lake Concordia, and Atchafalaya Basin waters.

Specific Spots

  • Prefer open water areas in lakes and reservoirs, as well as deeper pools in rivers with slow-moving water.
  • Schools suspended in 15-30 feet of water.
  • Mouths of inflowing creeks and rivers.
  • Bottom structures.

White Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

1/16-1/4 ounce curly tail grubs in white or chartreuse, small inline spinners, lipless crankbaits in shad patterns, hair jigs, and small swimbaits (2-3 inches). In clear water, use white and silver lures with dark backs; in stained water, switch to chartreuse and red patterns.

What flies work for White Bass in Louisiana?

Clouser Minnows in olive/white, Woolly Buggers in white, and Finesse Changers in shad patterns (sizes 2-6).

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

Spring (March-May) offers excellent White Bass fishing when they stage at tributary mouths before spawning - prime time for bank anglers at creek and river access points. Summer and fall provide consistent action as schools return to open waters, particularly effective from June through October.

How do you catch White Bass in Louisiana?

Vertical jigging with spoons and slabs works well over deeper structures. Maintain steady retrieves with artificial lures. Use electronics to locate schools suspended in 15-30 feet of water, and watch for surface feeding activity indicated by diving birds and baitfish jumping.

What do White Bass eat?

Feed primarily on shad species - both threadfin and gizzard shad - which form the backbone of their diet. They also consume minnows, small crustaceans, crawfish, and various insects.

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