Black Bass

Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass
Photo by MDC Staff, courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation
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Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass

Largemouth Bass
Found in lowland lakes, artificial impoundments of all sizes, permanent pools of streams, and quiet backwaters of large rivers. Thrives in warm, moderately clear waters with little or no current.

Smallmouth Bass
Also called "brown bass," "brownie" and "bronzeback," this popular gamefish is found predominantly in cool, clear Ozark streams and large reservoirs in the Ozarks. Found sparingly in the upper Mississippi River and its principal prairie tributaries that have clear water and permanent flow.

Spotted Bass
Also called "spot" and "Kentucky bass," this species inhabits permanent-flowing waters that are warmer and slightly more turbid than those where the smallmouth bass occurs. Begin to recognize it by noting the form of its stripe and the length of its jaw.

Fishing Type
Game
Topic Category
Hunting / Fishing Guide
Regulations
Seasons
Biological Information
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Spotted Bass
Seasons
Season Dates Hours Limits/Notes
Black Bass: From Impoundments -

Daily limit: 6
Possession limit: 12
Size limit: none

Daily and possession limits are combination of largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass.

These regulations apply to impounded lakes, streams, and rivers.  Some areas have additional specific regulations.  Check area regulations.
Black Bass: Non-Ozark Streams -

Daily limit: 6
Possession limit: 12
Size limit: minimum 12 inches

Daily and possession limits are combination of largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass.

Limits apply on all waters unless there are area specific regulations. Check area regulations.

These regulations apply to streams not defined as Ozark streams. View map of streams.
Black Bass: Ozark Streams -

Daily limit: 6
Possession limit: 12
Size limit: minimum 12"

Limits apply on all Ozark streams, except those with more specific regulations. View map of streams.