Rock bass are a great choice for freshwater anglers who want a fish that’s easy to catch, tasty, and can fight hard. Rock bass is a popular gamefish for sportfishers, despite the fact that it’s not a very glamorous species. Do not be fooled by their dull appearance. Rock bass is a fascinating instrument.
What is a Rock Bass Bass?
The rock bass (Ambloplites russestris) is a freshwater species native to the east coast of the United States. They are part of the sunfish family which includes other popular gamefish like bluegill, smallmouth bass, largemouth basses, and more. The rock bass is also known as the “redeye” or “rock sunfish.” The species can reach up to 12 inches and weigh as much as two pounds. However, eight inches is more common. The color of rock bass is usually brownish olive with green or light brown sides. They have reddish-orange eyes and a dark, teardrop shaped patch at the base of their fin.
Habitat and Distribution
The eastern half of the United States is home to rock bass. They prefer cool, clear streams and rivers with rapid movement. They also inhabit many lakes and reservoirs in their range. Rock bass spawn in water between 64 and 70 degrees between May to June. The males construct shallow, bowl-shaped nests on areas of clean, small gravel. Nests are often built near wood or rocks.
Biology and Life Cycle
Rock bass are omnivorous and feed on aquatic insects, crustaceans and small fish. They will eat live and dead prey such as worms, minnows, crayfish and crayfish. Diet is dependent on habitat and availability of prey. Rock bass live a short life, with the majority of fish only living five to seven years.
Fishing for Rock Bass
Anglers tend to overlook rock bass in favor of other, more popular species such as largemouth or smallmouth bass. Rock bass are a fun and easy to catch species. They make a great choice for beginners and families. Many of the same techniques can be used to catch them as with other sunfish species.
Fishing Techniques
Spin casting, fly fishing, and bait fishing are all popular techniques for catching rock bass.
Bait Fishing
If you are using bait fishing to catch rock bass, use light tackle with a plain hook or a jig. Earthworms, minnows and small crayfish are all effective baits. Use a bobber when bait fishing to keep your bait off the bottom, and to attract fish.
Spin Casting
Use lures that resemble insects or other prey when spinning for rock bass. Small spinners and jigs with natural colors are highly effective. Casting near cover, such as rocks or fallen trees, can also increase your success rate.
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing for rock bass can be done with small flies, such as wooly buggers, streamers or nymphs. Fly fishing for rock bass is best done with a 3-4 weight fly line and a 3-4 weight rod. Casting into pools and near structures can result in a catch.
Regulations
Check your state’s fishing rules to see if there are any restrictions on size or catch limits before you go fishing for rock bass. Rock bass are usually not subject to special regulations but each state has its own.
Cooking Tips
Rock bass is a good fish to eat, with its white, flaky flesh. You can cook them in many ways, including grilling or frying, baking or broiling. They can be used to make recipes that call for bluegill, crappie or other sunfish species.
Frying
One common preparation is to fry rock bass. To fry the fish, first fillet it, season with your favorite spices, then add a mixture flour, cornmeal and salt and pepper. Add the fish to a skillet with vegetable oil or shortening. Fry each side of the fish for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Whole
You can also cook rock bass whole. To cook fish whole you will need to remove the scales, the head and the innards. Rinse the fish well. Make a few slits on the side of the whole fish with a sharp knife. Season well with salt, pepper or your favorite seasoning mix. Place the seasoned salmon on a large sheet of tin-foil that will cover the fish completely. Wrap tightly and bake or grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Conclusion
The rock bass is a great choice for freshwater anglers who are looking for a gamefish that’s easy to catch and tasty. Although they may not be as spectacular as other species, they have a place in the world of angling. You can have a great day on the water with the right equipment, location, and technique. Try different types of fishing and see what you like. You’ll be able catch these fish like a professional with enough practice.