Most bass anglers know exactly what a smallmouth, largemouth or spotted bass is as these are some of the most sought out of the species when it comes to bass fishing. However, there are more species of black bass that perhaps not all anglers are aware of as they are somewhat lesser known and less widespread.

• The Shoal: The recorded world record for this species of bass is 8lbs, 12oz. This species originated in the Chattahoochee, Flint River and Apalachicola drainages in Georgia, Florida and Alabama. They have also reached the waters nearby, particularly in Georgia. The jaw on this fish does not happen to extend beyond the fish’s eye. It is also lacking any teeth found on the tongue.

• The Redeye: While there is not a world record currently recorded for this species of fish, the record Redeye caught in the state of Alabama has been recorded as 3lbs, 2 oz. Shoal bass were at one time considered to be part of this species as well until they were eventually distinguished as separate. Not surprisingly, the Redeye bass are extremely similar to shoal and they can be found in many of the same locations. Still, Redeye bass very rarely exceed four pounds.

• The Suwannee: While this is another fish without a world record for its size, it is generally believed that these fish rarely reach over a foot in length. Suwannee bass appear extremely similar to the spotted bass. They are naturally found in rivers as Florida’s and Georgia’s Ochlockonee and Suwannee.

• Batriam’s Bass: This bass is almost identical to the shoal bass, however Batram’s bass can only be found in the northern parts of the Savannah and Broad Rivers located in Georgia. Other than that, many experts argue that there is any other difference between the two species at all.

• The Guadalupe: Yet another species of bass without an official world record, it is considered that these fish do not exceed 3.5 pounds. Guadalupe bass are native to Texas and they can be found in rivers such as the Guadalupe, San Antonio, Brazos and Colorado. Still, there are times that you might come across one in areas nearby as well.

The next time you are out bass fishing, take a good look at the fish you have caught. Are you sure they are the species you think they are? Is it possible that there could be many more species of bass still undiscovered or defined? Perhaps you have one swimming around in a bucket right now!