Embedded Files
HOW TO CATCH ROCK BASS
What comes to mind when the 'rock bass' is mentioned? A rocky bass fish or a fish that is so hard it cannot be eaten? Funny right? Well, it turns out none of these is true of the rock bass. But here is what is true of this kind of fish. The rock bass is quite different from other species of bass. It is sometimes described as the kind of fish that is caught as a fill-in for days when fishing for other game fish is ineffective. This description is probably because rock bass is not considered as sleek and powerful as other species of bass and are known to receive less fanfare than smallmouth and largemouth bass. Nonetheless, rock bass, which is also called goggle-eye, is still considered an appealing fish as some anglers claim it is a handsome fish ruggedly.
The Latin name for rock bass is rupestris which translates to living among rocks, and it is native to the upper Midwest, all the way through the Mississipi River Basin and all through its drainages.
Pro Tip: If you want the most effective bait for catching bass click here.
If you, as an angler, are looking to catch rock bass, you might want to take some things into consideration. For one, you must understand in detail its life cycle as this is a great determinant of whether or not you will end up with a rock bass. As soon as it is time for spawning, males begin to change to dark colors. Some anglers believe that the lighter-colored males may be the dominant ones, and they are avoided by those changing into a darker color. Hence, this might not be a great time to fish for it. Secondly, you must understand that you stand a high chance of catching a rock bass as long as you play your cards well. As you already know, the fishing of rock bass is not as common as the fishing of other species of bass as it is usually a last resort for most fishers of bass. This is great news as it means that not many rock basses have seen the same pressure that other species of bass have experienced.
of bass have experienced. So, be confident enough to go out there with the mindset that you would be catching one come what may.
How to identify a Rock Bass
Wait! Is it even possible to fish for a rock bass without getting familiar with it and knowing what it looks like? Its unique features, size, color; you just have to know everything.
The rock bass is a large and robust sunfish that looks a little like bluegill and largemouth bass. Its body is not as compressed as other sunfishes, but it is longer than most. The most common size is less than one pound, but there have been some that weighed up to 3 lbs. At the edge of the gill cover is a visible black spot, and its mouth is larger than most small sunfishes. Its two dorsal fins are connected, and its eyes are red. There is a fish that is quite similar to the rock bass, the warmouth, and because of these similarities, they are sometimes mistaken for each other. However, they can be easily distinguished by the number of spines that are present in front of the soft-rayed anal fin: there are three in the warmouth and six in the rock bass. Another major difference is the absence of teeth on the tongue of the rock bass, unlike the warmouth, which is known for the peculiar positioning of its teeth.
Fishing Methods used to catch Rock Bass
Before you set out to catch rock bass, you need to have a plan, that is the kind of fishing method you think will be suitable. You basically do not just expect to hook a rock bass simply because you want to without making necessary preparations. Think about it; the rock bass would try its best toavoid being caught as much as possible. In rivers, rock bass will use current breaks as a hideout and lurk in crevices to avoid the fast flows. So, what can you do to bring them out of their hideouts and catch them all for yourself? Well, below is a list of some fishing techniques that will ensure you do not return from your fishing trip without a rock bass. Now you are left with choosing that which you consider most suitable for you:
Drift fishing: This method is great for catching rock bass for some reasons. For one, the motion of your boat is enough to give the added weight that this method requires in the movement of the bait slowly into the water. Also, with drift fishing, you are not limited to a particular habitat in your quest for rock bass. Instead, you can fish over a variety of habitats like ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams as your boat is drifted by the currents or wind movement, and this can be done any time of the day and year.
Fly fishing: There are claims that this kind of fishing method is quite difficult, especially if you are just a beginner. However, with a lot of practice, the right gear, and determination, this method might just earn you a rock bass. One of the greatest aspects of this method is the splendor and tranquility you are surrounded by, especially for beginners. Still, while using this method to fish for rock bass, you must stay on top of the river conditions and double-check before heading out because water levels might fluctuate suddenly, and this can be extremely dangerous. Also, you would want to pay attention to your footing and remain at a standstill when casting.
Trolling: This method of fishing requires one or more fishing lines with lures or baitfish to be drawn through the water, and it is completely a great method for catching rock bass. While using this method, anglers will typically put out between two and nine lines with lures spread out at various distances from the boat. So, the chances of a rock bass escaping when you make use of this method is usually so slim. Although there is really no general trolling speed, most boats will troll at a speed of 4-7 knots.
Still fishing: This method of fishing is simple and quite effective in the catch of rock bass. It’s suitable for both beginners and pros. One of the reasons it is quite effective for catching rock bass is that basically all it requires is putting your bait in the water and waiting for the fish to find it. Other than being simple and effective still, fishing is also one of the most versatile ways to fish for rock bass as it can be done from a bridge, a dock, a boat, or from shore, you just name it. It can also be practiced during most seasons and at any time of the day. It is important to mention that the success of this fishing method's result lies solely on one thing: patience. You have to wait for the rock bass to make a move at biting the bait. In essence, if you are not one to exercise patience, then maybe this fishing method is not for you.
Spin casting: Spin casting is yet another suitable fishing method for rock bass. Because of their relatively low cost and easy maintenance, spin casting reels are perfect tools for fishing for rock bass for beginners and professional anglers alike. The basic equipment for this includes a 7-foot rod, a spinning reel, and a 6-10 pound test line for catching a big rock bass. This fishing method is great for rock bass as it can hook heavy rock bass without breaking your line.
Pro Tip: If you want the most effective bait for catching bass click here.
Baitcasting: This is another suitable fishing method for catching rock bass. This method depends on the weight of the lure to extend the line into the intended area. It involves a revolving-spool fishing reel or what is called a 'free spool.' This 'free spool' is mounted on the top of the rod. Although learning how to use this method effectively can prove quite difficult, but once you get the hang of it, you are on your way to catching as many rock bass as you want.
CONCLUSION
Although the rock bass might not be the first choice of an angler, there are reasons to believe that deciding to fish for one would not be an uneventful experience. Asides from the fact that the rock bass would present some excitement to anglers who decide to fish for it, it has unique characteristics when compared with other species of bass, and this should be enough to pique any angler's interest. But it all boils down to this: only the bold and game changers will be willing to give the rock bass a chance. After all, there is really nothing to lose, or is there? To explore more options, check our article on "How to Catch Smallmouth Bass."
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse