Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass will reproduce at three years of age. Stocking forage fish such as Fathead Minnows or Bluegill Sunfish optimizes growth. In northern waters, they can reach 7-9 pounds but will usually average 2-4 pounds in ponds. Spawning begins in mid May or when pond temperatures reach 62-65 degrees F. Males prepare the nest in preparation for spawning which consists of a 1-2 foot diameter circular area in 2-3 feet of water. One or more females will deposit several thousand eggs and hatching occurs 8-10 days later. Males will protect the fry for about 2 weeks after which time they will begin to feed on them. About 1 in 1,000 will reach adulthood in natural conditions. When 2 inches in length, fry will begin disperse, therefore stocking at or above this size greatly increases survival rates. Bass feed on fish, insects, worms, frogs, and crayfish and will strike artificial bait. If trained early on, they may also eat commercial fish feed.

NOTE ON SHIPPING FISH: If you would like us to ship your fish directly to you, you must be within the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, or West Virginia. Fish will only ship during the available season. Shipping is calculated at checkout and only offered via UPS overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many largemouth bass should I stock per acre?

We recommend up to 100 largemouth bass per acre. Our bass are 4-6 inch fish - stocking at this size greatly increases survival, since wild fry begin dispersing (and getting eaten) at about 2 inches.

What should I stock with largemouth bass?

A forage base of bluegill sunfish (up to 300/acre) and fathead minnows optimizes bass growth. Our Bass Pond Package combines bass, bluegill, catfish, and minnows sized for 1/4- to 1-acre ponds.

How big do largemouth bass get in a pond?

Pond bass typically average 2-4 pounds, and northern waters can produce fish of 7-9 pounds. Bass reach breeding age at three years and spawn in mid-May, once water temperatures hit 62-65°F.

When are largemouth bass available?

April through November, with no fish transport in July-August due to heat stress. Spring and fall stockings give bass cool water to settle in and a full season of forage ahead of them.

How do I get live bass from Mid-Atlantic Stocking?

Three ways: free pickup at a scheduled delivery-route stop (routes run roughly monthly, April-October), UPS Next Day Air shipping every Wednesday (order by Tuesday 5 PM) to CT, DE, MD, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA & WV, or direct-to-pond delivery by quote. Fish are packaged with water and pure oxygen.

What if some fish do not survive the trip?

All our fish are certified disease-free, and we replace any mortality over 5% - in transit, or within 48 hours of introduction when the acclimation directions are followed. Document losses with photos and file a Mortality Report on our website.