When do largemouth bass spawn in New Jersey?

Spring (April-May): In New Jersey, largemouth bass typically begin to spawn in the spring, when water temperatures reach around 60-65°F (16-18°C). This usually occurs in April and can extend into early May.

Factors Influencing Spawning:

- Water Temperature: Water temperature plays a crucial role in triggering the spawning behavior of bass. When temperatures rise to the optimal range, it signals to the fish that it's time to reproduce.

- Daylight Duration: Increasing daylight hours during spring also influence spawning activity. Longer days stimulate the pituitary gland of bass, prompting the production of hormones that promote spawning behavior.

- Habitat: Largemouth bass prefer to spawn in shallow, vegetated areas with cover, such as flooded vegetation, weed beds, or near structure like rocks and fallen logs.

Spawning Process:

1. Nest Building: Male bass, known as "buck bass," create nests in shallow areas by fanning out a circular depression on the bottom, usually in water depths of 1-4 feet.

2. Courtship: Male bass engage in courtship displays to attract females. They swim around the nest, fanning it, and showing off their colors.

3. Egg Deposition and Fertilization: Once a female is attracted to the nest, she will deposit her eggs in the nest. The male will then fertilize the eggs.

4. Nest Guarding: The male bass becomes a devoted nest guardian, aggressively protecting the eggs and newly hatched fry from predators.

Post-Spawning:

After the eggs hatch, the male bass will continue to guard the fry, shepherding them in schools called "broods." The male will stay with the brood until they become too large or independent to be protected.