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Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass

Yellow Bass are relatively rare in Wisconsin waters, representing the northern edge of their natural range.

Scientific Name: Morone mississippiensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These small, silvery-yellow bass typically measure 10-14 inches and weigh 1-2 pounds.
  • Yellow bass can be distinguished from white bass by their golden-yellow coloration, offset lateral stripes above the anal fin, and lack of tooth patches on the tongue.
  • They have 9-10 anal rays and their backs are typically dark olive green while their abdomen and sides display a silvery-yellow hue.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Wisconsin, yellow bass are found primarily in the Mississippi River drainage, including pools and backwaters, as well as select inland lakes.

Key Locations

  • Auburn Lake and Crooked Lake in the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Lake Mendota, Lake Waubesa, and various Mississippi River pools.
  • The Mississippi River pools, particularly Pool 8, provide good opportunities in backwaters and tailwater zones.
  • Lake Mendota and other Madison-area lakes can produce trophy specimens.

Specific Spots

  • Target sandy-bottom flats and areas with access to deep water.
  • Often congregating in deeper areas during summer (10-20 feet) and moving to shallower waters (6-12 feet) in cooler months.
  • In backwaters and tailwater zones.

Yellow Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Crappie jigs in vibrant colors (orange, red) work well in murky water, while gray or silver jigs are effective in clear conditions. Small swimbaits mimicking minnows, drop shot rigs with small tube grubs or u-tail grubs, and mini cranks that dive deep are excellent choices.

What flies work for Yellow Bass in Wisconsin?

Small patterns work best including stealth bombers in white, small poppers, streamers, and nymph patterns.

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

Most productive during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when they're most active. During spawning periods (April through May), they should be avoided for fishing to allow successful reproduction.

How do you catch Yellow Bass in Wisconsin?

Fish close to the bottom using drop shot presentations, as yellow bass tend to stay in deeper water except during spawning. Use slip bobbers to maintain proper depth while avoiding bottom snags in vegetated areas.

What do Yellow Bass eat?

Yellow bass are primarily planktivorous, feeding heavily on copepods and cladocerans, though they also consume aquatic insects like chironomids, small fish including gizzard shad, and invertebrates.

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