Bass

Description
The reputation of these fish is legendary. These introduced species grow slowly in Idaho's cold waters. Four and six pound fish are excellent fighters. The largemouth bass is dark green on the back and sides with a white belly. They can attain a size of 10 pounds. The smallmouth bass can attain 7 pounds. They have reddish eyes, a dark olive to brown back, bronze sides, and a white belly.

Populations are dispersed throughout the state. The smallmouth is not as widely distributed as the largemouth.

Bass is a very popular sport fish where they are found. There are national clubs dedicated to bass fishing. Some of these clubs have come to Idaho for competitive fishing events.

Life History
Male bass build a shallow nest when spring water temperatures reach 60 to 65 degrees F. The female will lay the eggs and then leave, or is driven off by the male. The males guard the nest until the fry (young fish) are ready to leave. Largemouth bass males will continue to guard the small school of young bass from the nest for up to a month.

Survival of the young fish through their first year is low. Largemouth can tolerate warmer water than smallmouth bass. Both species mature after about four years. They may live to spawn many times.

Feeding Habits
Bass are voracious and turn to a fish diet early in life. Frogs and crayfish are also eaten.

Angling Techniques
Anglers often fish from a boat when seeking bass, beginning the fishing trip early in the morning. Largemouth bass are night feeders and feed at the surface morning and evening near shore and usually close to cover or vegetation. Surface lures and jigs work best. Smallmouth bass can be taken on similar gear, but also on jigs fished below the surface. Look for largemouth near weeds or brushy cover. Look for smallmouth near large rocks.