HABITAT

The rock bass likes clear-flowing streams with structures such as rocks or submerged logs for cover, or cool, weedy lakes of moderate size. They are often caught when fishing for smallmouth bass because they like the same type of habitat.

Its range extends from the deep south of the USA north to Lake Abitibi on the Quebec-Ontario border, and west from Manitoba and the Red River drainage of North Dakota to Lake Champlain and along the Atlantic slope. It can be found in all of the Great Lakes.

Through accidental or intentional introductions, the species proliferates across most of North America. Often, where rock bass have been introduced, the results have not been good for native species. Protection by setting limits is unnecessary in most areas because of the prolific nature of the fish and angler under-exploitation. Few restrictions apply to fishing for this species.

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