Spotted (Kentucky) Bass
(Micropterus punctulatus)
Kentucky bass are often confused with large mouth bass because of the horizontal stripe on their sides. However, Kentucky bass have definite spots below their stripe, and a patch of teeth at the base of their toungue. The notch on their dorsal fin is less pronounced and the two top fins are generally connected.

Feeding Habits
Small bait fish,
crustaceans, worms, insects

Smallmouth Bass
(Micropterus dolomieu)
Smallmouth are brown or bronze colored with vertical bars on their sides. Smallmouth have lines radiating backwards from their eyes and do not have the horizontal dark bands on their backs that Kentucky and largemouth have.

Feeding Habits
Insects, small baitfish, crustaceans, worms.

Largemouth Bass
(Micropterus salmoides)
Largemouths are named for their predominant feature, a large mouth whose jawbone extends back beyond their eyes. They are primarily greenish with horizontal dark bands on their back and sides. Two dorsal fins are spiny and separate, deeply notched. Largemouth can grow to be quite sizeable.

Feeding Habits
Voracious eaters, bait fish, insects, crustaceans, leeches, frogs, salamanders.

FISHING LOCATIONS
Bass can be found throughout the lake. There are a number of different varieties in the lake, but primarily largemouth, smallmouth, and Kentucky bass are caught in the lake. The bass can generally be found holding to cover, but during spawning times they often nest in clearer waters near the shore. Steep rock bluffs and rocky points are common holding areas for smallmouth and Kentucky bass. Main lake points have also been known to hold bass throughout the spring and fall, while main creeks hold bass throughout the summer months.

FISHING TECHNIQUES
Most bass techniques used throughout the country are also as effective in Lake Cumberland. Buzzbaits, jigging spoons, live bait (worms, minnows, and crawdads), spinner baits, and worm rigs are commonly used fishing methods. The key to catching bass, as always, is finding their holding spots throughout the lake. If your search is successful you will be in for quite a day of fishing! The local residents, of course, have their favorite holes which will vary depending on the time of year. With a little cajoling you might be able to get out for the day with one of our anglers for a great day of fishing.