The shoal bass (Micropterus cataractae) is a species of freshwater fish in the sunfish family (Centrarchidae) of order Centrarchiformes.

[2] It is also occasionally found in rivers and streams of East Alabama where it has been declared an endangered species and cannot legally be kept if caught by fishermen.

It is also often confused with the smallmouth bass, due to its faint vertical stripes along the side of its body.

[3] The red color of eyes associates this species with the redeye and Suwannee bass at first glance.

A dusky dark blotch about 50 to 67 percent of the size of the eye occurs on the back edge of the gill cover.

[4] Good fishing still exists in Georgia's Flint River, but anglers are encouraged to catch and release.

[citation needed] Shoal bass spawn in coarse gravel at the heads of creek pools in April and May, to early June.

The world record shoal bass was 8 pounds, 12 ounces according to the International Game Fish Association.

Shoal bass are also popular targets for fly fishers, who find them easy to access in their preferred river environments.