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White Bass

White Bass

White Bass are a temperate bass species native to Ohio's Great Lakes region and major river systems, particularly abundant in Lake Erie and its tributaries. These are highly aggressive, schooling predators that are opportunistic visual feeders.

Scientific Name: Morone chrysops

Physical Characteristics:
  • Silver-white to pale green fish typically grow 10-12 inches long, though they can reach 17+ inches, with dark horizontal stripes running along their sides.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout Lake Erie, the Ohio River system, and major tributaries like the Maumee, Sandusky, Portage, and Huron rivers.
  • Prefer clear lakes and reservoirs deeper than 10 feet.

Key Locations

  • Lake Erie, Ohio River system, Maumee River (Conant Street Bridge to Jerome Road), Sandusky River (State Street Bridge to Ballville Dam), Portage Rivers, Huron rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Moving into tributaries during spring spawning runs.
  • They spawn above and below riffles in moving water.
  • Outside spawning season, they roam open waters in large schools.
  • Target deep pools with slow-moving water during the day, shallow areas during low-light periods.

White Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

1/8 to 1/4 oz lead-head jigs tipped with white, yellow, or chartreuse twisted plastic tails, small silver spinners and spoons, live minnows, small flashy spoons, medium-running crankbaits.

What flies work for White Bass in Ohio?

Clouser Deep Minnows, Half & Half Deep Minnows, Cowen Baitfish, and Blanton Flashtail Whistlers in 2-3.5 inch lengths, with color combinations of gray/white, black/gray/white, chartreuse/white, and olive/orange.

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

Prime fishing from mid-April through early June during spawning run, peaking in mid-May around 55°F. Summer fishing (June-September) excellent in Lake Erie's open waters. Fall brings excellent night fishing. Winter offers good vertical jigging opportunities.

How do you catch White Bass in Ohio?

Use live minnows under bobbers. Summer: watch for seagulls diving on surface-feeding schools, troll medium-running crankbaits 10-20 feet deep. Fall: night fishing with lights to attract baitfish. Winter: vertical jigging in open water areas.

What do White Bass eat?

Feed primarily on shad (particularly threadfin and gizzard shad), including minnows, crayfish, insects, and small fish.

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