The yellow bass is indeed a gamefish, although it may not be as popular among anglers as other species such as the white bass or striped bass. One of the main reasons for this is its relatively small size compared to its counterparts. Yellow bass typically range in size from 6 to 10 inches, with larger specimens reaching up to 14 inches.
Due to their smaller size, yellow bass are often overlooked by anglers seeking larger gamefish. However, this does not mean that they cannot provide an enjoyable fishing experience. In fact, many anglers specifically target yellow bass for their abundance and willingness to bite.
When it comes to catching yellow bass, anglers typically use crappie jigs or minnows as bait. These lures are effective in enticing yellow bass to strike, as they mimic the small forage that these fish commonly feed on. Anglers may also use other small artificial lures or even live bait such as worms.
One advantage of targeting yellow bass is that they often occur in large numbers. They are known to form schools, especially during their spawning season in the spring. This can make for a productive day of fishing, as anglers have the opportunity to catch multiple yellow bass in a short amount of time.
In terms of their population, yellow bass are considered to have large populations in certain areas. They are native to the central United States, primarily found in the Mississippi River basin and its tributaries. However, they have been introduced to other water bodies outside their native range, further expanding their distribution.
Personal experiences with yellow bass fishing can vary depending on the angler and the specific location. Some anglers may find them to be a fun and challenging species to target, while others may prefer larger gamefish. Nevertheless, yellow bass can provide an enjoyable fishing experience, especially for those who appreciate the thrill of reeling in multiple fish in a short period of time.
While the yellow bass may not be as popular as other gamefish species due to its small size, it is still considered a gamefish and can provide an enjoyable fishing experience. Anglers often catch yellow bass using crappie jigs or minnows, and they are known to occur in large numbers, making for a productive day on the water.