Largemouth Bass

This fish is from the earliest days of my fishing life. Even before I ever caught one, I would watch Jimmy Houston's Outdoors every week to see what he was reeling in. Most weeks, it was one of these monsters. They are so fierce, and I had to make this fish in a striking pose to show that aggression. They will strike at almost anything and have always captivated my attention once the cast has been made.

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• Scientific name: Micropterus salmoides

• Habitat: Freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams

• Range: Native to much of North America

• Typical size: Commonly 12–24 inches, with larger individuals possible

• Diet: Fish, crayfish, frogs, insects, and other prey

• Known for: Aggressive feeding and powerful strikes