yup thats a rock bass. I catch them all the time in the great lakes area. From what I heard it is the easiest to keep in captivity of all the bass species because it is not a true bass. Its more of a panfish. They don't get as big as smallmouth or largemouth either.I was told he was a Rock Bass, and from my own research that is what I found. One of the tell-tail signs I guess is the eyes, they are Fire Red with a black line going from top to bottom.
Also to the thread starter. If you are knowledgeable with fish keeping, you can provide a life that is safe and happy for your bass. Keep in mind he is wild, so I suggest feeding live fish/ frozen (krill w/e) and try dry.
Here is another picture.