I can tell you what I do and you can consider what you want to do.
I am not the end all guru but so far my fish are doing pretty good in a crowded tank.
60%+ water changes bi-weekly.
Remove sump water also during change at least weekly.
Ad Vitachem to water for every water change.
Temp. 79-80.
Feed sticks (I use Hikari). If they won't eat them ,stuff in food.
Add Vitachem to food at least every other day.
Garlic guard on some food about once a week.
Stressguard if fish are banged up.
Salt also if really banged up.
If your fish don't get proper vitamins it can lead to hex type disease.
Your bass should be active and swimming all over the tank. If they are not could be stress due to overcrowding.