Along the western waters of the North Atlantic Ocean you’ll find the black sea bass which is also known as the rock bass. They can typically be found as far south as the Gulf of Mexico and as far North as Massachusetts.  The most populous areas for these fish are between New York and South Caroline where they can be found in shoreline waters. While they do tend to stick fairly close to shore, it’s not unusual to find them in as much as 400 feet of water or more.

While the typical bass has two separate dorsal fins, the black sea bass has only one long dorsal fin.  They also have a rounded caudal and pectoral fin as well as a distinctively high anal fin.  While the Black Sea Bass is typically black in color (hence its name), it can change color depending on their environment.  This is a protective measure, designed to protect them when they hunt.

An interesting characteristic of the black sea bass is their ability to change from female to male halfway through their lives.  All black sea bass are hermaphrodites – the larger males are also called “humpbacks” due to the bumps that appear on their heads.  This fish reproduces very quickly, between May and June with tiny eggs – not more than 1/3 of an inch.  The eggs float and only take about a day and a half to hatch.

Rock Bass, the more common name for Black Sea Bass are generally small, weighing only about a pound and a half. Occasionally, you may find that they can grow as large as nine pounds.  During breeding cycles, you’ll find Black Sea Bass near the shorelines but once breeding time ends you will find them in depths as much as 400 feet.  Rock Bass are fairly slow and they typically make their homes in sheltered areas like wrecks, reefs and rocks.  If you see a rock bass on the ocean floor you might be surprised to find that they are not dead in spite of the fact they look like they are.

Black bass are a great game fish, if the proper techniques are used to land them. Typically, more success is obtained by boat fishing close to shore though shoreline and pier fishing are not quite as successful.  Bottom fishing can also be a good way to land these fish but it does take some patience, as they are not known for moving quickly.

Black Sea Bass prefer jigs or live bait.  They also are liable to strike if you are using shrimp, squids, worms, crabs or small fish. In spite of the fact that they tend to be a bit slow, they are pretty aggressive once you hook them.  While they are slow, once they’re hooked they will come to life very quickly. Make sure your line and leader are in good condition to catch Black Sea Bass.

When you are out saltwater fishing it is important to make sure you have the right supplies. Some of the most popular rods and reels include Okuma Saltwater Reels, Shimano Salt Water Spinning Reels, and Daiwa Fishing Rods.

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