Micropterus dolomieu

The elongate body is compressed from side to side, the upper jaw does not extend beyond the rear edge of the eye in adults, the dorsal fin has two parts that are fairly broadly connected (front part is spiny, rear part has 13-15 (usually 14) soft rays), and the shortest spine at the rear of the front part of the dorsal fin is more than half as long as the longest spine. The sides have irregular dark vertical markings, the cheeks have four dark streaks that radiate from eye or snout, and a white spot is present at the rear end of the gill cover. This species never has a broad black stripe on each side. The tail fin of young is three-banded with yellow, black, and white (at the tip); this fades with age. Maximum total length is around 27.5 inches (69 cm).

Smallmouth basses prefer large clear lakes (especially in the northern part of the range) and clear midorder streams with many large pools, abundant cover (rocks, shelves, logs, etc.), and cool summer temperatures. Adults seek shelter of pools or deep water during day.

Spawning habitat includes shallow water in lakes or quiet areas of streams, often fairly close to shore. Lake populations may move a short distance up a stream to spawn. Females deposit eggs in nests made by males, usually near cover on gravel or sand bottoms. Individual males may nest close to the previous year's nest site (Ridgway et al. 1991).

Usually stays within 5 miles of place of original capture, but longer movements have been recorded (Scott and Crossman 1973).

Spawning occurs in late spring or early summer and may be interrupted by flooding. Eggs hatch in 2-10 days at 60-77°F (15-25°C). Males guards eggs and hatchlings. Fry leave the nest about 10-15 days after egg deposition. Parental care may last 4 weeks or longer. Individuals usually attain sexual maturity at age II in south, age VI in north (Moyle 1976, Becker 1983). Nests are solitary rather than colonial.