The Different Types of Bass Fish (and Why They Matter)


For many anglers, bass are the ultimate fish. They're big, they're strong, and they put up one heck of a fight when hooked. But did you know that there are actually several different types of bass fish? In this article, we'll take a look at the three most common types of bass fish and what sets them apart.

Largemouth Bass


Largemouth bass are probably the type of bass fish that most people are familiar with. They're native to North America and can be found in bodies of water all across the continent. Largemouth bass are easily distinguished by their large mouths, which give them their name.

These fish can grow to be quite large—some have been caught that weigh in excess of 20 pounds!—and they're known for being fierce predators. If you're looking to catch a largemouth bass, live bait is usually your best bet.


Small Mouth Bass

Smallmouth bass are very similar to largemouth bass in many ways, but there are also some key differences. Smallmouth bass are also native to North America, but they're more commonly found in rivers and streams than in lakes or ponds.

As their name suggests, smallmouth bass have small mouths in comparison to largemouth bass. They're also not quite as aggressive as their largemouth cousins, meaning that they can be a little harder to catch. If you're targeting smallmouth bass, lures that imitate crayfish or minnows are usually your best bet.


Spotted Bass


Spotted bass are the third and final type of common bass fish. Like largemouth and smallmouth bass, spotted bass are native to North America. These fish get their name from the spots that cover their bodies; these spots help camouflage the fish from predators and prey alike.

Spotted bass can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, making them one of the most versatile types of fish out there. When fishing for spotted bass, lures that resemble shad or other small baitfish tend to work well.

Conclusion

Bass fishing is a pastime that's enjoyed by millions of people all over the world. And while most people know that there are different types of bass fish, they might not know exactly what sets these different types apart.

In this article, we took a look at the three most common types of bass fish: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and spotted bass. We also examined some of the key characteristics that make each type unique. So next time you go out fishing for bass, you'll be able to target the specific type of fish you're after with confidence!

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