Other names: -
The Alabama bass, Micropterus henshalli, is a freshwater fish native to the Mobile Bay drainage in the USA. It is a member of the sunfish family and resembles the spotted bass but has distinct lateral line scale counts and coloration patterns. Popular among anglers, it inhabits temperate freshwater environments and is known for its aggressive nature and fighting ability when hooked.
Other names
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Length
~31" (max 40)
Weight
~1" (max 4)
Water
Fresh
Always open
No
No
No
Alabama bass prefer freshwater rivers, streams, and reservoirs with clear water and rocky substrates
They are often found in areas with moderate to strong current and structure such as submerged logs and rocks
Their diet mainly consists of small fish, crayfish, and various aquatic insects
Alabama bass thrive in habitats with ample cover and can often be found near drop-offs and deep pools
Spawning occurs in spring when water temperatures rise, with males creating and guarding nests in shallow, gravelly areas
After spawning, males protect the eggs and fry until they are capable of swimming independently
Juveniles grow rapidly and move to deeper waters as they mature, continuing to feed on a diet of small fish and invertebrates
Alabama bass exhibit territorial behavior, especially during spawning season, making them a challenging and exciting target for anglers