Bass, Calico (Kelp)
Description
A fish that prefers structure, vegetation and deeper water, the kelp bass can make for frustrating angling but the results are well worth the effort. The kelp bass, or calico bass, is characterized by its similarity to the freshwater largemouth bass. Its third and fourth dorsal spines are of equal length, and are approximately twice the length of the second dorsal spine. The upper head of the calico or kelp bass is brownish-olive with yellow spots and the upper back is mottled with characteristic white blotches on a brown background. There are two rows of rectangular white blotches on the back, which easily differentiate it from other members of the bass family.
During summer and fall, the southern California Channel Islands are perhaps the best location to fish for kelp bass. Since the fish rarely appear on the surface, anglers must use fast sinking lines and weighted flies. Angling for kelp bass can be quite frustrating, as lines routinely get tangled in kelp and flies get hung up on underwater structure. This is a game that requires patience and finesse.
Average Length
Temperature Range
Habitat
As their name implies, Calico Bass are usually found near kelp beds in water depth to 150 feet, with the fish hanging in the water column at depths no greater than sixty feet. Larger specimens, however, can be found in deeper water. They can also be found around rock jetties, breakwaters and other shallow-water structures.
Range
Kelp bass have ranged historically as far north as the mouth of the Columbia River and south to Baja California, Mexico. They are abundant in southern California waters as well, including the shores of the Channel Islands.
