Fish
Spotted Bass
B tier
Spotted bass (Micropterus punctulatus) is a southern and central US black bass with mild white flesh similar to largemouth but often a bit firmer in cool reservoirs. Rows of spots along the side aid identification. It is less famous as a commercial product than as a sport catch destined for the frying pan. Fillet and cornmeal-fry, blacken, or grill. Treat like largemouth for seasoning—hot sauce, lemon, and hushpuppies fit the culture. Bleed and ice quickly; summer heat softens freshwater bass fast.
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Characteristics
Preparations
Traits
History
Spotted bass occupied southern river systems as a native food fish.
Anglers and home cooks used spotted bass interchangeably with other black basses.
Reservoir construction expanded spotted bass habitats and catch.
Spotted bass remained a regional table fish of southern reservoirs.