Other Names
sea bass, black fish, black bass, rockfish, talywag
Description
The species is easily identified by body shape, fin characteristics and color. Overall, the color is black for the larger individuals and arid, dusky-brown for the smaller ones. The exposed parts of scales are paler than the margins, giving the fish the appearance of being barred with a series of longitudinal, pale dots. The belly is only slightly lighter than the sides, and is never white. The fins are dark, and the dorsal is marked with a series of white spots and bands. The upper portion of the caudal fin generally ends as a filament. During the spawning season, large males have a conspicuous blue nuchal hump.
Typical Habitat
The black sea bass is a temperate marine species that inhabits irregular hard-bottom areas such as wrecks, reefs and rock outcroppings from Cape Cod to Cape Canaveral. There are believed to be two populations: one north of Cape Hatteras and the other south of Cape Hatteras. The two populations spawn at different times of the year and have slightly different rates of growth. Black sea bass in the South Atlantic Bight generally occur inshore of the more tropical reef fishes-snappers, groupers, porgies and grunts — which also prefer hard-bottom habitats.
Feeding Habits
Black Sea Bass are opportunistic feeders, eating whatever is available. They are particularly fond of crabs, shrimps, worms, clams, and small fishes. Bass caught in deep water and then quickly retrieved to the surface, often regurgitate their food, thus attracting more fish.
Age and Growth
Although black sea bass are reported to live as long as 20 years, fish older than 9 years are rare. The maximum size attained is approximately 24 inches long and 6 pounds. Sea bass grow slowly. A 1-year-old fish is only 5 inches long; a 5-year-old is 12 inches; and one 8 years of age is only 15 inches long.
Sporting Qualities
Fishing for Black Sea Bass takes place all along the East Coast from Massachusetts to Florida. Sport fishermen use medium-weight boat rods and reels with 15- to 20-pound test line. The typical bottom rig consists of two 4/0 to 6/0 hooks baited with squid, and an 8- to 10-ounce sinker. In shallower waters, anglers occasionally use light spinning tackle with spoons and jigs.
Food Quality
Black sea bass flesh spoils quickly. Fish should be iced and then cleaned as soon as possible. Whole fish and fillets are usually fried. Some believe that no tastier saltwater fish can be brought to the table than black sea bass prepared in this manner.
World Record
2 lbs. 11 ounces Detached Mole, Gibraltar
Preferred Temps
N/A
Material from eAngler.com.
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