Quick facts
Scientific name: Morone chrysops
Best for: Schooling fish, spring runs, shad chases, fast action
Typical size: Great for action-filled trips and often found in active schools.
Habitat and pattern
Habitat: Reservoirs, open water, points, flats, tributaries during spawning runs.
Seasonal pattern: Spring is famous, but schooling windows can pop up whenever bait is concentrated.
Best lures and baits
| Type | Brand | Model | How to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spoon | Acme | Kastmaster | Cast to busting fish and burn or flutter |
| Spinner | Worden's | Rooster Tail | Great around current seams and moving fish |
| Swimbait | Storm | WildEye Swim Shad | Match shad size and schooling action |
| Topwater | Heddon | Super Spook Jr. | Excellent on surface busts |
Range map
Regulations reminder
Always verify statewide rules and waterbody exceptions before your trip.