6 Interesting Facts About Largemouth Bass

You should always strive to learn more about the behavior and anatomy of the fish species you plan to target. The more information you have about your quarry, the better an angler you’ll become. It’s just a matter of getting out on the water and applying your critical thinking skills.

Largemouth Bass Facts

1. Largemouth bass are widely abundant. The largemouth is one of the most widely distributed freshwater game fish in the United States, they are found in 48 states nationwide. Bass fishing also appeals to anglers of many different levels and abilities since lakes and ponds that contain bass are usually found within a short drive of most American homes.
2. Largemouth bass are actually part of the sunfish family. Yep, it’s true. The largemouth is a member of the “black bass” group of fishes and is technically part of the sunfish family.
3. Florida-strain largemouth bass grow faster than their northern counterparts. Florida-strain largemouth bass generally reach a weight of about 10 pounds in 8 years. A Northern-strain largemouth, in contrast, would generally weigh about 5 pounds at the same age.
4. The world record largemouth was caught in Georgia in June of 1932. The world record fish weighed 22 pounds 4 ounces and was caught on Montgomery Lake by George Perry.
5. The average lifespan of a largemouth bass is about 16 years. According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, largemouth bass live for about 16 years on average. However, the Northern largemouth tends to live longer than the Florida-strain.
6. Largemouth bass have inner ears that consist of small bones. These bones are able to pick up very subtle sounds, like the movement of a grass shrimp or crayfish.

Now that you know a little more about our favorite freshwater game fish, would you change anything about your tackle or the techniques you use? Feel free to comment on this post. I’d love to hear how you’ve studied the species and become a better bass angler as a result.