Florida Bass Fishing Forum
Smallmouth, Largemouth, We're All About Bass!

Why do Largemouth bass have red tooth pads sometimes?

I've caught largemouth bass, especially in the spawning period, where they have RED tooth pads. Why is this? I may catch one or two that DON'T have red tooth pads then on the next cast, catch one that the tooth pads are bright red. Is this hormonal or what?

Public Comments

1. More and more, Largemouth bass are letting their oral hygiene slip. This could be gingivitis. If you catch and release, carry a small toothbrush with you and some Colgate Total; brush their teeth before you release them and they will have an easier time finding a female to mate with. Then you're guaranteed to have more fish to catch in the future.