I really don't know how they got into the lake, we have a few places in VA that have Kentucky strain spots, but these fish are way different and after going to Lay Lake I can confirm that they are definitely the Alabama strain. Someone must have done a lot of work because as far as I know, Lake Norman is the closest lake with those particular fish.

 

My brother and I got on a really spectacular bite fishing Carolina rigs on points and drop offs. Strange that we caught them that way, it was raining like crazy and blowing 15mph so you would think the fish would be looking for a moving bait. The lake mainly has largemouth, we caught lots of those today, and 6 spotted bass. Our best 5 today went 14lbs. Spotted bass sure are an interesting creature!

 

                                                                                                                                                                         "Bycatch"

 

Good looking fish.  

In my understanding there isn't technically a kentucky spotted bass subspecies.  I know there is a northern and the alabama species and i think there is another one as well.  

Can i take a guess at the lake or would you rather not share?

Nice! I wish the lakes here had Alabama spots. 2 pounds or so are the biggest KY spots I run into around here, and those are rare.

1 hour ago, flyfisher said:

Good looking fish.  

In my understanding there isn't technically a kentucky spotted bass subspecies.  I know there is a northern and the alabama species and i think there is another one as well.  

Can i take a guess at the lake or would you rather not share?

Pm sent

 

Also, Kentucky is just a nickname for the northern strain.

Way to go!!!!!

 

I am sure our Virginia Game and Inland Fisheries people would like to hear from you on the spots theory.

 

Now get ready for school and some college football.  WVU is supposed to have a good team this year and we expect you to be in the stands with a cute coed as your date having a fun time.

those spots are beautiful! i live right here at Lake Norman in NC and love catching those Alabama spots. 

Nice going!  Spots can be a ton of fun!