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Redeye Bass

Redeye Bass

Redeye Bass in South Carolina, locally known as Bartram's Bass, represent a unique genetic lineage found exclusively in the Savannah River drainage system.

This native species is one of only two indigenous black bass in South Carolina and is considered a species of highest conservation concern.

Also known as Bartram's Bass

Physical Characteristics:
  • Bartram's Bass are naturally smaller fish, growing roughly one inch per year with adults averaging 8 inches and trophy specimens reaching 12-13 inches.
  • They have an olive body fading to white on the belly, elongated black splotches along the lateral line with a leopard-print pattern on the back, and distinctive white-to-orange margins on the tail fin with a silver-to-teal crescent behind the eye.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found exclusively in the Savannah River drainage system.

Key Locations

  • Savannah River basin including the Chattooga River (their northernmost range), Lake Jocassee (which holds the world record at 5 pounds 2.5 ounces), Lakes Keowee, Hartwell, and Russell, as well as tributaries of the upper Saluda and Broad rivers in the Santee basin.
  • Prime locations include the Chattooga River below Highway 28 Bridge, Lake Jocassee (especially for lake-dwelling populations), and the main stem Savannah River around Augusta and North Augusta.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on rocky shoal complexes, seams where different water speeds meet, plunge pools below small waterfalls, runs over underwater rocks, and calm pockets around rocks within flowing water.

Redeye Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Redeye Bass in South Carolina?

Small jointed crankbaits, square-bill crankbaits, soft plastics, rooster tail lures, and small spinnerbaits.

What flies work for Redeye Bass in South Carolina?

Leggy poppers and foam topwater flies in sizes 6-10, with yellow being the most productive color choice, though chartreuse works well in early summer while oranges, blues, greens, and blacks are effective later in July and August.

When is the best time to fish for Redeye Bass in South Carolina?

The optimal fishing season for Bartram's Bass runs from April through September, with peak activity during summer months when water is hot. Spawning occurs when water temperatures reach 62-68°F, typically from May to early June, during which time fishing should be avoided to protect nesting males.

How do you catch Redeye Bass in South Carolina?

Fly fishing is the preferred method among dedicated Redeye anglers. For conventional tackle methods that imitate crayfish and baitfish.

What do Redeye Bass eat?

These bass are opportunistic predators feeding primarily on terrestrial insects (over 50% of their diet), but also consume aquatic insects, crayfish, small fish, salamanders, and even mice.

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