Bass refers to a number of different saltwater and freshwater species of spiny-rayed FISH. Bass is shaped like SALMON, but the flesh is white. Both freshwater and saltwater varieties occur in North America. Freshwater game fish varieties include white or silver bass and yellow bass. Saltwater varieties, like sea bass and striped bass, are among the best known. Striped bass caught in polluted offshore waters can be contaminated with industrial pollutants. Fish farms are a major source of bass. The flesh has a delicate flavor and is served poached, braised, or grilled. In order to keep the flesh intact during poaching, the scales are not removed.