Largemouth and spotted bass are two of the most sought-after freshwater game fish in North America. While they may look similar at first glance, there are several key physical characteristics that can help you accurately identify these species.
Body:
1. Jaw:
- Largemouth bass: The lower jaw extends well past the eye.
- Spotted bass: The lower jaw ends at the eye.
2. Mouth:
- Largemouth bass: No tooth patch on the tongue.
- Spotted bass: A large tooth patch on the tongue.
3. Lateral stripe:
- Largemouth bass: Solid lateral stripe.
- Spotted bass: Broken lateral stripe with clear ventrolateral stripes.
4. Scales:
- Largemouth bass: Scales extend onto the lower cheek.
- Spotted bass: Scales on the lower cheek are smaller than those on the rest of the body.
5. Dorsal fin:
- Largemouth bass: Continuous dorsal fin.
- Spotted bass: Divided dorsal fin with a noticeable notch between the spiny and soft sections.
6. Coloration:
- Largemouth bass: Typically have a greenish-brown coloration with dark spots or blotches.
- Spotted bass: Usually have a darker green coloration with more pronounced spots, especially along the lateral line.
Additional Tips:
- Size: Largemouth bass generally grow larger than spotted bass, but there can be exceptions.
- Habitat: Largemouth bass are more tolerant of a wider range of water conditions, while spotted bass prefer clearer, cooler waters.
- Behavior: Largemouth bass are often more aggressive and prone to jumping when hooked, while spotted bass tend to be more subdued.
Conclusion:
By carefully examining these physical characteristics, you can confidently identify whether you've caught a largemouth or spotted bass. This knowledge can be valuable for anglers who enjoy targeting specific species or for those who simply want to learn more about the fish they catch.
