Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieui)
Identification: A type of sunfish, is moderately large. Colour is variable from dark to golden brown to olive-green depending on habitat, condition and size. Sides are lighter than back, sides of adults have 8-15 pronounced to vague, thin vertical bars. Head has dark bars extending laterally backwards from eye. Pectoral fins are clear. Does not have black opercular flap. Pelvic fins do not reach vent.
Life History: Spawn over a period of 6-10 days in the late spring and early summer. The male constructs the nest on a sandy, gravel or rocky bottom, of lakes or rivers with rocks, logs, or dense vegetation as protection. Fecundity ranges from 5000 to 14,000 eggs per female. Life span is to a maximum of about 15 years. Adults found in rocky and sandy areas of lakes and rivers.
Feeding: Food consists of insects, crayfish and other fishes.
References:
Scott, W and Crossman, E. 1973. Freshwater Fishes of Canada. Fisheries Research Board of Canada. Bulletin 184. Ottawa, Ontario.
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