The yellow bass is named for its characteristic yellowish gold body and eye. The yellow bass has joined dorsal fins, the second anal spine is half the length of the head, and the seven longitudinal stripes are broken. Black longitudinal stripes occur as continuous lines along the back, but the lower three or four along the sides and venter are distinctly broken. The lateral line is complete with 50 to 55 scales. The tongue lacks the distinctive tooth patch found on other members of this group. Adult size: 8 to 11 inches.