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Spotted Bass

Spotted Bass

Spotted Bass (Micropterus punctulatus) in Oregon are non-native fish that have established populations primarily in the Willamette Valley region.

These bass are typically smaller than largemouth bass but are known for their exceptional fighting ability - a 3-pound spotted bass will fight harder than most other bass species of similar size.

In Oregon, they're considered an invasive species by wildlife officials, though they provide excellent fishing opportunities in select waters.

Scientific Name: Micropterus punctulatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Characterized by having scales on the base of the second dorsal fin, connected dorsal fins, and an upper jaw that doesn't extend past the eye.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Established populations primarily in the Willamette Valley region.
  • Prefer clear, flowing water with rocky or gravel bottoms.

Key Locations

  • Cottage Grove Reservoir, the Coast Fork Willamette River, and the Upper Rogue River.

Specific Spots

  • Main-lake points, especially those near creek channels in 10-40 feet of water, submerged timber, brush piles, rocky points, and floating docks over deep water.
  • Often found around structure like submerged timber, rock piles, and points that drop into deeper water.

Spotted Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Spotted Bass in Oregon?

Shaky head jigs with 4-6 inch straight-tail worms in green pumpkin or watermelon colors, drop-shot rigs with the same worms, 1/8 to 1/4 ounce jigheads with soft plastics, crankbaits in chartreuse/blue-back (parrot) patterns, spinnerbaits, topwater lures like Whopper Ploppers or buzzbaits, football jigs with craw...

When is the best time to fish for Spotted Bass in Oregon?

April through October, with peak action occurring during pre-spawn (April-May) and fall feeding periods (September-October). During summer, target them early and late in the day when they move shallow to feed, and focus on deeper structure during midday heat.

How do you catch Spotted Bass in Oregon?

Shaky head presentations, drop-shot rigs, Neko-rigged techniques with 3/32-ounce weights, finesse presentations.

What do Spotted Bass eat?

Diet consists primarily of crayfish (which can make up 79% of their food by weight), along with young-of-year shad during summer months, small fish like minnows and centrarchids, and aquatic invertebrates.

Where do Spotted Bass live in Oregon?

Established populations primarily in the Willamette Valley region. Prefer clear, flowing water with rocky or gravel bottoms.

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