Fish ID
Spotted Bass
Aggressive, schooling bass that dominates Oroville, New Melones and Bullards Bar. Usually smaller but numerous.
Key ID marks
- Horizontal row of diamond blotches
- Rows of small dots on lower belly
- Rough patch on tongue
Mouth ID
Rough tooth patch on the tongue (feel it); jaw ends near the back of the eye.
Typical size
1–3 lb; trophies over 8 lb
Best season
Year-round
Where
Steep, rocky reservoirs
Look-alikes
Largemouth (jaw past eye, no tongue patch).
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