Bartram’s Bass Micropterus sp. cf. cataractae, like other black bass species, are known for their fighting ability, aggressiveness, and stamina. In their native stream habitats, Bartram’s Bass typically range from 5 to 15 inches in size. This species, once considered Redeye Bass, is known to be native only to rivers in the Savannah River watershed in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. In North Carolina, Bartram’s Bass are found only in three rivers (Chattooga River, Horsepasture River, and Toxaway River) along the southwestern border with South Carolina and Georgia.

Bartram’s Bass are significantly rare in North Carolina and are at risk of declines due to degraded habitat, dams, and hybridization with non-native species such Alabama Bass and Smallmouth Bass. Conservation efforts to preserve this unique species throughout its range are ongoing.

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Below is a comparison of the Alabama Bass, Bartram's Bass, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, and Spotted Bass. Images courtesy of Black Bass iNaturalist.

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Aquatic Nuisance Species - Learn more about aquatic nuisance species in North Carolina, how they got here, and what the NCWRC is doing to protect your waters. 

N.C. Stream Conditions - a list of websites that provide information on current stream flow conditions and projected release schedules from hydro power stations.

North Carolina Fishing Records and Angler Recognition Program - North Carolina has four programs that officially recognize anglers who have caught large fish. 

Where to Fish - Interactive map of publicly accessible fishing opportunities in western North Carolina streams, rivers, and reservoirs.

NC Fishes - more information and photos of fishes in North Carolina. (External website)

Protect Your Waters From Aquatic Hitchhikers - Learn how to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species through basic gear care procedures.  (External website)

Lake Levels and Flow Releases Management Authorities - links to various agencies, managed lakes, and lake level information sites.  (External website)

Bass Anglers Sportsman Society Conservation News – links to Keeping Bass Alive Guides, Bassmaster Conservation Directors, and aquatic conservation news (External website)

Major League Fishing Fish Management Division – links to the Fish Management Division of the Major League Fishing tournament circuit and more (External website)

A NCWRC biologist holds a Bartram's Bass collected during a genetics survey in Horsepasture River. (Photo: NCWRC)  Larger image

Bartram's Bass displaying typical vertical bar markings/blotches along its side. (Photo: NCWRC)  Larger image

Bartram's Bass showing its unique green to yellow caudal fin coloration. (Photo: NCWRC) Larger image

A lack of caudal fin spotting is a key feature to help identify Bartram's Bass. (Photo: NCWRC) Larger image

Pale or white margins along the anal and caudal fins can help identify Bartram's Bass. (Photo: NCWRC) Larger image