Preferring to stick to freshwater areas with rocky bottom, the rock bass can be found from southeast Canada to the northeastern U.S. Several different methods can be used for catching these fish, including drifting, trolling, fly-fishing, and spinning-reel while using cut bait. These game fish aren’t generally highly coveted, but they can be fun to catch.
Habitat: Lake, Pond, River
How to identify Rock Bass
The rock bass is a brawny sunfish that looks like a combination of a bluegill and a largemouth bass. Its body is flatter and longer when compared with other sunfish. Rock bass average about one pound in weight, but some three-pounders have been caught. The black marking on the rim of their gill cover/mouth is bigger than that of smaller sunfish. Their upper jaw extends to the front of their red eyes, and both of their dorsal fins are joined.
Where to catch Rock Bass
The native range of the rock bass extends from southeast Canada to the northeast U.S. They have been introduced to a few states out west as well. These fish got their name because they prefer the low-current, rocky bottoms of lakes, streams, and large lake shorelines. They are generally found in areas with ample hiding places and a lot of vegetation.
The following are habitats where you can catch Rock Bass:
- Cliffs and Steep Shore Banks
- Freshwater Lakes and Ponds
- Freshwater Weed Beds
- Lake and Pond Fishing Holes
- Inlets and Outlets
- Inside Turns and Coves
- Islands or Sand Bars
- Overhanging Trees and Bushes
- Piers, Docks and Pilings
- Points and Break Lines
- Rocks
- Shoreline Shallows
- Springs Holes
- Sunken Objects
- Walkways and Bridges
How to catch Rock Bass
While rock bass are considered a game fish, they aren’t highly coveted. However, they can still be fun to catch. Small to medium fishing tackle is all that is needed to catch these fish. They are relatively easy to catch but can be difficult to find. Look for them near rocks, drop-offs, docks, fallen trees, and boulders. They tend to stick to areas that where the water is clear and shallow, and the bottom is sandy or rocky. Anglers can try several methods to catch them, including drifting, trolling, fly-fishing, and spinning-reel while using cut bait.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching Rock Bass:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch Rock Bass
The best bait to use for rock bass is live bait such as crickets, nightcrawlers, and minnows. They will also respond to lures, such as spinners, craw lures, and spoons.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch Rock Bass:
