Spotted Bass

For anglers seeking spotted bass in southern Mississippi, McLain provides access to the Pascagoula River, a waterway known to hold a healthy population of these often-overlooked fish. Spotted bass thrive in the river's rocky runs and deeper pools. They're often found mixed in with largemouth bass, but tend to prefer areas with more current and harder bottoms. Spring and fall are the most productive times to target them, as they're actively feeding and preparing for spawning or winter. Small crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and finesse worms work well. A local tip: focus your efforts around the numerous creek mouths that feed into the Pascagoula, as these areas often concentrate baitfish and, consequently, spotted bass. Remember, spotted bass in this region are typically smaller than largemouth, but they fight hard and provide a fun challenge on light tackle.