The Guadalupe Bass is not well known globally, or even countrywide as they live in the central-western part of the state of Texas only. This species is similar in appearance to the smallmouth bass and is most well-known for its choice of habitat and its ability to be caught while fly fishing. The Guadalupe River is dense with these fish as are other rivers and lakes found in the Edwards Plateau region.
Profile – (Micropterus Treculii)
The Guadalupe Bass
Although this bass is small it is still part of the Black Bass family as it weighs in at no more than three and a half pounds. It is olive green in color and its jaw doesn’t extend past its eye like the smallmouth. This species of bass can only be found in the waters of Texas and nowhere else. As with its cousin, it prefers the quickly flowing waters of small streams and rivers. Most anglers that target these fish practice a quick catch and release method to enhance their population.
Where do we fish for the Guadalupe bass?
This beautifully patterned bass lives only in the Edwards Plateau of Central Texas. It prefers the fast-flowing waters of small streams and rivers but can be found elsewhere. It shares locations with the more well-known smallmouth bass and has hybridized with its cousin further endangering its own population. In early 1950 this bass was officially named in an effort to support a pure-bred species in its natural habitat.
What does Guadalupe Bass eat?
This bass loves to eat much of the same as its cousins, such as crayfish, insects, and their larvae. They will also cannibalize, eating smaller fish.
Reproduction and life cycle
The freshwater State Fish of Texas also known as the Guadalupe Bass will search for a mate in the early parts of spring finding a sandy area to nest near the shores. The males will emerge from the depths to build their nest and will attract a female to lay her eggs. The male will stay and guard the nest of eggs until the fry is hatched.
How do catch Guadalupe Bass?
As true as it is with other bass species the Guadalupe Bass loves to eat and will chase after most bait such as small to medium-sized spin, swim, and crankbait that mimic their natural prey. This specific type of black bass is accustomed to eating large amounts of insects which in turn makes them especially susceptible to fly fishing. Experts will say the best lures are gold-ribbed Hare’s ear nymphs and Utah Killer bugs. Other types of flies are still effective. Hooking one of these basses can send you downstream as they love to use the strong current to help free themselves of anglers’ hooks.
What other gear do I need?
A nicely set up rod and reel or a fly rod will do you just fine. Remember, when fishing for bass focus on making your bait look like their natural prey as much as possible. Known mostly to Texans this bass loves the dry warm air of central and western Texas, so bringing your favorite cooler would be a great choice of gear as well. Try one of the best like the Rtic 52-quart Ultra-Light Cooler.
Where do I go?
At the heart of their native range, you will find yourself at the Guadalupe River. This is where all novice bass fishermen in search of the Guadalupe Bass should start. Although much of this river’s shores are privately owned you can head to the northern reaches of this river and find what is called the Kerr Wildlife Management Area. This region provides you with a bass-rich two-mile section of shoreline to fish from. If you are in search of other areas, you can look for the Guadalupe State Park as well.
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