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Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass are small temperate bass native to the Mississippi River system, making Mississippi prime habitat for this species. They're aggressive predators that exhibit crepuscular feeding behavior, most active at dawn and dusk.

Yellow Bass are schooling fish that tend to overpopulate and stunt in smaller lakes and ponds.

Scientific Name: Morone mississippiensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Laterally compressed, deep-bodied fish display characteristic dark stripes on their sides that are darker and more broken above the anal fin compared to white bass.
  • They lack the tooth patch on the tongue found in other Morone species.
  • Yellow Bass typically measure 5-11 inches long and weigh under one pound, though they can grow over 2 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found primarily in oxbow lakes and rivers throughout Mississippi, particularly abundant in areas with aquatic vegetation.
  • They prefer slow-moving waters with moderate depths.

Key Locations

  • Mississippi River backwaters near Greenville, Tunica Cutoff oxbow lake, Pickwick Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Target them near current seams and brush piles, especially in oxbow lakes, backwater areas, wing dams, bridge pilings, submerged timber, rocky points, and around submerged structures.
  • Yellow Bass typically hold in deeper water (6-20 feet depending on season).

Yellow Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small lures are essential - use 1/32-1/8 oz jigs tipped with soft plastics like minnows or curly-tail grubs, small spoons, blade baits for vertical jigging, crappie jigs, cricket lures, small crankbaits, small spinner baits. Live bait is highly effective, particularly small minnows, shiners, nightcrawlers, and insects.

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

Most productive from late spring through fall, with prime action from May through September after spawning concludes. During summer heat, target deeper structures and fish during cooler parts of the day.

How do you catch Yellow Bass in Mississippi?

Dr.op shot rigs work exceptionally well. Vertical jigging near structures produces consistent results. Troll with small crankbaits or spinners to locate schools, then switch to casting or jigging to maximize catch rates.

What do Yellow Bass eat?

Adults primarily consume small fish including minnows, silversides, and small threadfin shad, while juveniles feed on small crustaceans, copepods, and aquatic insects. They feed on other fish, insects, and in coastal areas of Mississippi may include shrimp and crabs in their diet.

Where do Yellow Bass live in Mississippi?

Found primarily in oxbow lakes and rivers throughout Mississippi, particularly abundant in areas with aquatic vegetation. They prefer slow-moving waters with moderate depths.

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