Sexually mature mates build saucer-shaped nests on a soft, clay bottom or on gravel bars generally near brush, logs or other heavy cover. The eggs hatch in four or five days, yielding up to 3,000 fry per nest. The principal food items are crayfish, fish and aquatic insects. The species is less piscivorous than other black basses and seems to be more selective in its feeding habits. Age and Growth - Tends to grow slower than largemouth bass and does not attain as large a size as other species.
Maturity is reached at about seven inches.
Sporting Qualities - Strong fighters when caught on light tackle. Popular lures and baits include jigs, crankbaits, spinners, small plastic worms and crayfish. Eating Quality - White, flaky meat with good flavor. Generally considered better eating than largemouth. Flint River smallmouth, Chipola bass, black bass.