A recent catch has tied the Maryland state record for rock bass (Ambloplites rupestris) in the Chesapeake Division, according to Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Thomas Over Jr. caught a 1.0-pound rock bass January 6 in the lower Susquehanna River. Over was fishing with a light spinning rod and jigging for yellow perch when he hooked the large rock bass.
The fish measured 10.5 inches long. Its weight was determined on a certified scale at Angler’s Sport Center in Annapolis, and Maryland DNR Recreational Fishing Outreach Coordinator Erik Zlokovitz confirmed the species. The catch ties the record set by Timothy A. Adams on the Susquehanna River on May 4, 1997.
A member of the sunfish family, rock bass have short, robust bodies with an olive-green top and gold or brassy-colored sides. The scales along their sides have a dark spot, often forming a striped-like appearance.
The anal fin has five to seven spines, and on adult rock bass, this fin has a dark outline. The number of anal fin spines distinguishes this fish from a similar fish, the warmouth (Lepomis gulosus), which has only three anal spines. Rock bass are not related to striped bass, which are often called “rockfish.”
The Susquehanna River is one of the area’s most popular destinations for freshwater fishing. Susquehanna River anglers catch black bass, sunfish, walleye, white perch, yellow perch, catfish, striped bass, northern snakeheads, and other species.
Maryland DNR maintains state records for sport fish in four divisions – Atlantic, Chesapeake, Nontidal, and Invasive. Anglers who think they have a potential record catch should download and complete a state record application and call 443-569-1398. DNR recommends the fish be immersed in ice water to preserve its weight until an official can check, confirm, and certify it.
source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources
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