Largemouth Bass
Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth bass are one of the most popular gamefish in New York. They prefer warm, weedy waters and are found throughout the state.
Fishing Regulations
June 15 - Nov 30
12 inches minimum
5 per day
Dec 1 - June 14: Catch & release only, artificial lures only
Warm, weedy lakes, ponds, and slow rivers. Prefers cover like vegetation, docks, logs, and rocks. Found in shallow to mid-depth water. Tolerates turbid water.
Late spring (May-June) spawning in shallow nests. Summer in deeper water and heavy cover. Fall feeding heavily. Winter deep and slow. Best fishing late spring through fall.
Dark green back fading to white belly. Dark horizontal band along sides (may be broken). Upper jaw extends past eye. Notched dorsal fin. Size 12-18 inches common, up to 25+ inches.
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Important: Fishing regulations are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the official NY DEC website before fishing.