Caught a Spotted Bass Fishing Trip in Lago

The Spotted Bass (Micropterus punctulatus) is a highly sought-after game fish in the Centrarchidae family, distinguished by its characteristic rows of dark spots along the lower sides of its cylinder-shaped body. Also known as Spotty or Kentucky Bass, this species ranges from light green to light brown in coloration and is frequently confused with the Largemouth Bass, though key differences in jaw length, cheek scales, and dorsal fin structure help distinguish them. In Lago Vista waters this November, spotted bass provide excellent fishing opportunities around Lake Travis structure.

Spotted Bass Overview

Spotted bass are aggressive predators that thrive in clear, rocky lakes and rivers with abundant structure. They're prized by anglers for their fighting ability and willingness to strike lures, making them ideal targets for both novice and experienced fishermen. Their adaptability to various water conditions and year-round activity make them a reliable species for guided fishing trips.

Spotted Bass Habitat and Distribution

These fish prefer rocky areas with good cover, including submerged timber, rock piles, and drop-offs. Lake Travis provides ideal spotted bass habitat with its limestone bluffs, creek channels, and varied depth structure. They're commonly found in 10-30 feet of water near structure, though they'll move shallow during feeding periods and spawning season.

Spotted Bass Size and Weight

Spotted bass typically range from 20 to 25 inches in length and weigh between 1 to 11 pounds. Lake Travis produces quality fish in this size range, with larger specimens often found around deeper structure and main lake points during cooler months.

Spotted Bass Diet and Behavior

Spotted bass are opportunistic feeders that consume crayfish, shad, bluegill, and various aquatic insects. They're most active during low-light periods like dawn and dusk, though they'll feed throughout the day when conditions are favorable. Their aggressive nature makes them excellent targets for casting presentations around structure.

Spotted Bass Spawning Season

Spawning occurs in spring when water temperatures reach 60-65 degrees, typically March through May in Texas waters. During this period, males build nests in shallow rocky areas and become highly aggressive, making them easier to target with lures and live bait.

Spotted Bass Fishing Techniques

Effective techniques include casting jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastics around rocky structure and drop-offs. Topwater lures work well during early morning and evening periods. In November, anglers around Lago Vista find success using deeper presentations near main lake structure, with jigs and crankbaits producing consistent results around 15-25 foot depths.

Spotted Bass Is It Good to Eat?

Spotted bass offer excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. They're high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury. Popular cooking methods include grilling, frying, and baking, with the meat holding up well to various seasonings and preparations.

Spotted Bass Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for spotted bass?

A: Jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastic worms work exceptionally well. Live bait like minnows and crayfish are also highly effective, especially around rocky structure.

Q: Where can I find spotted bass near Lago Vista?

A: Lake Travis offers excellent spotted bass fishing around rocky points, creek channels, and submerged timber. Main lake structure in 15-25 feet of water consistently produces fish.

Q: Is spotted bass good to eat?

A: Yes, spotted bass provide excellent table fare with firm, white meat and mild flavor. They're nutritious and versatile for various cooking methods.

Q: When is the best time to catch spotted bass?

A: Early morning and evening periods are most productive, though spotted bass will feed throughout the day. Fall and spring offer some of the best fishing opportunities.