Orange-Mouth Bass In The Potomac?

[CPBassFishing]

I have recently noticed that some of the bass I catch out of the potomac have orange-tinted mouths. Any idea as to what this means? Are they eating craws?

[Nitrofreak]

Na, they have been drinking too much Sunkist soda pop LOL !!

I think it is due to their blood, it starts to concentrate in areas such as their mouths and pallat's, it almost looks like they have a sore throat, the pigmentation of their skin may reflect a changing color and blend with the blood to give it an off color such as an Orange, I have seen a Yellowing and a deep Blood Red in colder water conditions and during the fall I have also seen Orange and an Orange/Red color mix.

Just like your hands when they get cold and you warm them by a fire, they will turn very red from the blood being concentrated in the tiny little vessels trying to warm the areas that have been effected by the cold.

[CPBassFishing]

Thanks, that makes sense.

[Sam]

CP, never heard of such a thing.

Have you considered contacting Game and Inland Fisheries and asking one of their biologists?

The people at the Virginia DG&IF are great and they will answer your email or telephone call.

If you do get their response please let us know.

Thanks.

[CPBassFishing]

Thanks for the suggestion, ill shoot them an email. EDIT: I didn't find an email, ill call them tommorow.

Cullen

[flyfisher]

I have also seen the red on the mouth and throat regions on the lakes i fish but only in the fall and winter months. I know i searched and found some information that said it has to do with water temperature and it seemed believable so i never questioned it further

i will be anxious to hear what the DGIF says....