Rare Bass caught in James River near Jamestown Ferry

[Sam]

My friend caught this "Gold Bass" on the Historic James River.

 

He told me that he was informed by Virginia Department of Wildlife that "Gold Bass" do exist and they have a problem with pigment.

 

I have never heard of a "Gold Bass." Anyone out there know of these mutations and have you caught one?

[Kyle S]

I've never caught one @Sam but i'd love to! 

VADGIF email yesterday showcased that fish in yesterday article which is pretty cool!

I do believe i've heard someone else on here talk about skin pigmentations in bass, sadly I can't remember who. Very cool fish indeed.

[GRiver]

5 hours ago, Sam said:

they have a problem with pigment

Would the gold color be equal to an albino in other species?

[BrianMDTX]

1 hour ago, GRiver said:

Would the gold color be equal to an albino in other species?

No, as a true albino lacks pigment of any kind. The eyes are pink or red due to light reflection back from the retina. Gold bass are caused by a genetic anomaly known as Xanthochromism or xanthism. It is often associated with usual red pigmentation being replaced with yellow.

[Woody B]

I hadn't read this thread, only the title.  I caught one today that wasn't gold, but I'd say it's goldish.   

 

[Julien Buzz Johnson]

This bass was caught recently in Virginia. VDIF says it is a golden bass. Thought it was interesting. I do not know much more.

[Dogface]

FYI: There is a post about the same fish down below. 

[MIbassyaker]

Xanthism! Usually a genetic condition.

 

Rare, but every year or so someone catches a gold bass and it makes the news.  Two golden smallies were reported in Michigan last year:

https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/Angler-Catches-Ultra-Rare-Golden-Smallmouth-17319864.php

https://www.wideopenspaces.com/golden-smallmouth-bass/