White Bass

White Bass  
Photo by: Matthew R. Thomas

Identification:  A silvery, medium-sized fish with a deep-body that is thin from side to side and strongly arched behind the head. Color is blue-gray to dark green on the back and silver-white on the sides, with dark horizontal stripes. The eye has a yellow or gold tint. Adults grow to 18 in. (5.5 lbs.), but are commonly 10-15 in. (1-2 lbs.). 
 
Distribution and Habitat:  Occupies main channels of rivers and most major reservoirs across the state. Spring spawning runs are common in some rivers (e.g., Salt, Dix, and Big South Fork Cumberland rivers) where large numbers aggregate in flowing waters over rocky bottoms.