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White Bass

White Bass

White Bass are schooling fish that feed cooperatively in large groups and are visual feeders that work together to corral schools of baitfish, forcing them toward shallow ledges or to the surface where the forage fish often jump to escape.

They adapt well to man-made reservoirs and are native to parts of Virginia's river systems.

Scientific Name: Morone chrysops

Physical Characteristics:
  • White Bass are silver-colored temperate bass with dark horizontal stripes on their sides that fade near the tail.
  • They're significantly smaller than striped bass, rarely exceeding 16 inches in Virginia waters, and have a deeper body profile with a single tooth patch on the back of their tongue.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They are found in larger impoundments and open waters of major rivers.

Key Locations

  • In Virginia, they're particularly abundant in Halifax County waters including Kerr Lake (Buggs Island), which is considered one of the premier White Bass destinations in the state.
  • Halifax County has gained statewide recognition as Virginia's 'white bass capital' due to exceptional fishing opportunities on the Dan and Staunton Rivers.
  • In Virginia's Kerr Lake system, focus on areas where White Bass can work together to concentrate prey like riffles, dams, and shorelines.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow sandbars and creek mouths along the Dan and Staunton Rivers where these schooling fish concentrate.

White Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

3-inch curly tail grubs in white and chartreuse on 1/4-ounce jig heads, silver spoons, white spinners, minnow-imitation crankbaits, and lead-headed jigs are highly productive. Live minnows work excellently where permitted.

What flies work for White Bass in Virginia?

Productive fly patterns include Clouser Deep Minnows, Half & Half Deep Minnows, Cowen Baitfish, and jig patterns in color combinations like gray/white, black/gray/white, chartreuse/white, and chartreuse/orange. Tie flies 2-3.5 inches long for White Bass, using barbless hooks for easier release.

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

Prime White Bass fishing in Virginia occurs from the second week of April through the second week of May during their spawning runs, with spring and early fall being the most productive seasons overall.

How do you catch White Bass in Virginia?

Effective retrieval includes slow roll just off the bottom for grubs. Vary retrieval speeds from slow in cold water (below 55°F) or murky conditions to moderate to fast in clear water above 60°F.

What do White Bass eat?

They primarily consume other fish including threadfin and gizzard shad, along with crayfish and larger invertebrates when available.

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