Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

The Rock Bass appearance is often described as a cross between a Bluegill and a Smallmouth Bass.

They have a very large mouth and red eyes with a dark teardrop shaped area under each eye.

The back and sides are olive to light brown with distinct lateral stripes of black spots.

Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr.

Season	Open Year-Round
Size Limit	No Size Limit
Daily Limit / Person	No Limit (The Rock Bass is not included in Delaware's panfish regulations)
Delaware Range	Northern New Castle County Streams
Abundance in Delaware Waters	Common
General Habitat and Food Preferences	Rock Bass lurk among woody debris, boulders, overhangs, and other structures in streams. They feed on small fishes, insects, and small crustaceans.
Did You Know?	The Rock Bass has bright red eyes and is also known as the "Red Eye". These fish have the ability to rapidly change their color to match their surroundings like a chameleon. The Rock Bass is in the sunfish family.
Common Lures and Baits	Rock Bass can be caught with flies, small spinners, and small jigs. Live bait often includes crickets, worms, and small minnows.
Typical Sizes Caught	Rock Bass are commonly caught at lengths of less than 8 inches by Delaware anglers.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Rock Bass are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record	Rock Bass are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.

Delaware's Government