Check the water chemistry. How long has the tank been set up, well water or city, ammonia?, nitrites?. temperature drop or overheated... it could be too hot and that makes them puff. I dont think its cause its eating, my bass eat big meals and they dont puff. Something chasing his arse? is he wild caught and how long have you had him- parasites.
Kill the lights....that makes all stress worse.
High ammon or nitrite....water change, if well, treat water first if city
too hot above 80...15% water change with 70 degree water....i had my bass at 90 before and I lost 2 moving them
An interesting note....making changes to my house and my 300 gallon was exposed to 40 degree temps. with extra heaters and insullation the tank went down to 61 degrees for about two weeks....when the room was finished and temps rose to 75 again they spawned within 4 days.
Bridge
