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Spotted Bass:
Appearance:
Spotted bass are similar to largemouth bass, but unlike the largemouth, the spotted bass has scales on the base portion of the second dorsal fin; their first and second dorsal fins are clearly connected, and its upper jaw does not extend past the eye. A rectangular tooth patch on the tongue also helps distinguish the spotted bass from other black bass species such as the largemouth bass, shoal bass, and Suwannee bass.
Habitat:
They prefer small to medium streams and rivers with clear, slow-moving water, and gravel or rock bottoms. Seldom found in natural lakes, and they do not enter brackish water.
Behavior:
Grow slower than largemouth bass and do not attain as large a size as other black bass.
State Record:
3.75 lbs. Big Catch: 16 inches or 2 lbs.
Fishing Tips and Facts:
Strong fighters when caught on light tackle. Popular lures and baits include jigs, crankbaits, spinners, small plastic worms and crayfish.
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Largemouth Bass:
Appearance:
The largemouth bass is the best known and most popular game fish in North America. It is distinguished from other black bass because the upper jaw extends beyond the rear edge of the eye, and the first and second dorsal (back) fins are separated by an obvious deep dip.
Habitat:
The Florida largemouth bass is the state freshwater fish. Found statewide in lakes and rivers, they are commonly found along vegetation, or underwater structure, but schooling bass are also found in the middle of lakes.
Behavior:
Black bass spawn in spring, when males fan out a bed and then protect the eggs and fry. The baby fish eat zooplankton (microscopic animals that drift in the water column), and when about an inch long begin eating other small fish. Adults eat a wide variety of fish, crustaceans and larger insects.
State Record:
17.27 lbs. (Note several larger fish have been documented but not certified.) Big Catch: 24 inches or 8.0 lbs.
Fishing Tips and Facts:
Florida is an outstanding destination to catch a trophy. A photo and measurements of your fish can be converted into lifelike fiberglass mounts, so you can release the lunker to fight another day. The best live bait is a golden shiner, fished under a float or free-lined. Typically, the shiner is hooked through the lips or back with a large hook, 2/0 to 5/0. A medium to medium-heavy rod with 14- to 20-pound test line is preferred, particularly when fishing in areas with thick vegetation or cover. Plastic worms are the most dependable artificial bait for largemouth bass. A weedless Texas- or Carolina-rigged worm is especially effective with heavy plant cover. Checking “Florida Fishing Weekly” is a great way to learn about the full array of techniques available to bass anglers as well as specific details about different bass fisheries around the state.
Additional Information:
This section describes some of Florida’s most popular freshwater fishes and offers angling tips and identification information. Keep in mind, the freshwater fish you’re looking for may be a Nonnative species. If you catch a big one, check out our Big Catch angler recognition program. Most illustrations are by Duane Raver, Jr., (see link for a CD of his artwork).
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Not sure which fish species are in your area? Try FWC’s Fish Range FinderImage may be NSFW.
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