Identifying White Bass, Hybrids and Stripers
In some instances, hybrids and stripers can appear very similar. To separate them, look at the anal fins. The length ratio of the second and third anal fin on the hybrid will be approximately 2/3. This characteristic comes from the white bass component of the hybrid.
The length ratio on the second and third anal fin on the striper will be approximately 1/2.
Hybrids will also have two patches on the top of the tongue. This characteristic comes from the striper component of the hybrid.
White bass will have a single patch on the tongue.
Let's say you are below the dam catching white bass and have 15 fish that range in size from 10" to 14". You are legal. If in fact some (or all) of those fish are small hybrids, not only have you exceeded the limit (hybrid and striper limits are 2 fish per day), none of your fish are long enough to keep since the size limit on hybrids is 15". If the game warden catches you it will be a costly mistake.
If you are in a body of water that has both white bass and hybrids (JPP, Tims Ford, OH, all of the river systems), make sure of what you are keeping. The white bass will have a single patch on the top of the tongue; the hybrid will have two patches on the top of the tongue.
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