How to Keep a Rock Bass in an Aquarium

For many aquarists, there is a particular joy to be found in keeping native species in their aquariums. The rock bass is a North American bass species that can be found in many freshwater lakes and rivers throughout the northern and eastern parts of the country. Rock bass are hardy and smaller than many other native lake species, and can survive well in captivity with the proper care and a large enough aquarium.

Things You'll Need

  • Gravel or substrate
  • Decorations
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the bass in the largest tank you can afford. Rock bass can grow up to 12 inches, but most remain in the 6 to 8 inch range. A tank should be at least 100 gallons for a few of them. A single fish should have at least 75 gallons for optimal water quality and health.

    • 2

      Decorate the aquarium with sandy substrate or small, natural colored gravel and large flat rocks to match the fish's preferred natural territory. This will also give the bass spawning areas and hiding places.

    • 3

      Use a filter rated for a larger tank to ensure adequate flow rate and oxygenation. External canister filters are good selections, and do not take up any space in the tank.

    • 4

      Get young rock bass from a local hatchery, if possible, or obtain the smallest bass you can from the wild. Younger fish will grow up used to captive conditions and will cause fewer problems. If the fish is caught in the wild, it may need to be treated with anti-parasite medicine, available at most local pet stores and fish specialty shops.

    • 5

      Feed the bass high quality live food, such as gut-loaded insects and feeder minnows. The insects need to be fed a quality commercial insect food for a few days before they are offered to your fish. Most pet stores sell both feeder insects and gut-loading formulas.