White Bass
Morone chrysops
A schooling fish that creates spectacular surface-feeding frenzies — high-action fishing
📅 When to Fish
Habitat
Large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes. Schooling fish that chase shad baitfish to the surface.
Best Season
Spring (spawning run up rivers) and summer when shad schools are concentrated.
Best Times
Early morning and evening when shad push to the surface. Watch for diving birds.
Record
6 lbs 13 oz (David Cordill, 1989)
Ideal Water Temp
58–75°F
Top Lures & Baits
- •White curly-tail jig
- •Inline spinner
- •Small crankbait
- •Silver spoon
- •Topwater lure during frenzies
🔍 Identification
Silver-white body with horizontal black stripes. Two dorsal fins (spiny plus soft). Resemble striped bass but smaller with a single tooth patch on tongue.
🍽️ Eating Quality
Good — white somewhat strong-flavored flesh. Best fresh; bleed immediately after catching. Excellent fried.
📍 Where to Find It
🎣 Beginner Tip
Look for birds diving — that marks a feeding frenzy. Cast any white or silver lure into the chaos and hold on. White bass are one of the most action-packed schooling fish you can target.