Largemouth bass feel right at home in ponds, natural lakes, impoundments, sluggish rivers, swamps and backwater sloughs. Their ability to thrive in such varied habitats makes them readily available to anglers throughout the United States, southern Canada and in many waters south of the Rio Grande. Largemouths also have been stocked in countries overseas, including Japan and Africa. Most Bass are very rugged, and can survive wherever there is food.
Most bass old enough to spawn weigh 1 to 3 pounds. A 5-pound bass is considered a trophy in the northern United States/ Connecticut River. Bass grow bigger farther south due to the warmer climate and longer growing season. In Florida, a bass must weigh 10 pounds to claim trophy status.
Largemouth bass spawn in late spring when water temperatures are between 62 and 68 degrees F. The males build nests in calm sandy or fine gravel areas in less than six feet of water. Females lay between 2,000 and 7,000 eggs per lb. of body weight, however, not necessarily all in the same nest. The males actively guard the eggs, and later the newly hatched fry. Hatching occurs within 7 to 10 days. Young fish or fry remain on the nest until their yolk sac has been consumed, after which the survivors will then school until reaching about one inch in length.
Bass today are making themselves right at home in the Connecticut River and lakes around it. It looks like they have found a good home, and will be a known presence in New England's Waters for years to come.
LARGEMOUTH BASS
The Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoidesis) one of the most popular fresh water sportfish in Massachusetts. With its reputation as a fighter, its palatability, and extensive range, it's easy to understand why.
