Redeye Bass
Micropterus coosae
A small, brilliantly marked native black bass of Georgia's rocky mountain and Piedmont streams, the redeye bass (also called Coosa bass) is prized by fly and light-tackle anglers. It has an olive-bronze body with dark blotches along the side, rows of small brick-red spots on the lower flanks, striking red eyes, and distinctive white-edged margins on the upper and lower lobes of the tail. It rarely grows large but fights hard in the swift, clear water it favors.
Swift, clear, rocky streams and shoals of the Coosa, Etowah and upper Chattahoochee-Flint basins.
How to Catch Redeye Bass
Whether you're new to targeting Redeye Bass or refining your approach, success starts with matching your tactics to where the fish lives. Redeye Bass (Micropterus coosae) is typically found in river water, so concentrate your effort where those conditions line up. Mature Redeye Bass average around 9 inches, which helps you choose the right line, lure size, and tackle for the fight.
Where to Find Redeye Bass in the USA & Canada
Redeye Bass is recorded across a range of North American waters, including spots in Georgia. Browse the linked water guides below to see the specific lakes, rivers, and coastal waters where anglers report catching Redeye Bass, then plan a trip around the water closest to you.
Redeye Bass Fishing Regulations & Limits
Fishing rules for Redeye Bass vary by state and province. Before you head out, check the daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons that apply in your area. When FishFinder has matching records, the regulations link below takes you to the rules hub. Following local limits keeps Redeye Bass populations healthy for future seasons.
Related Water Guides for Redeye Bass
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where Redeye Bass is recorded:
Redeye Bass Regulations
Review current FishFinder regulation records before targeting Redeye Bass:
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water is best for catching Redeye Bass?
Redeye Bass (Micropterus coosae) is typically found in river water. Focus your effort where those conditions line up to improve your chances.
How big does Redeye Bass get?
Mature Redeye Bass average around 9 inches, though individual fish can run larger. Matching your line, lure size, and tackle to that range makes for a better fight and landing rate.
Where can I catch Redeye Bass in the USA and Canada?
Redeye Bass is reported across North American waters, including spots in Georgia. Check the locations listed on this page to find the lakes, rivers, and coastal waters closest to you.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Redeye Bass?
A valid fishing license is required in most US states and Canadian provinces. Daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons for Redeye Bass vary by region, so review the regulations on this page and with your local wildlife authority before heading out.