Common characters in Rick Bass short stories include those with a strong connection to the natural environment. You'll find fishermen, for example, who depend on the rivers and lakes. There are also loners who have chosen to live away from the hustle and bustle of society, perhaps in a cabin in the woods. And there are characters who are new to an area and are trying to understand and adapt to the local environment and its rhythms.
Often, there are characters who are closely tied to the land, such as farmers or hunters. There are also characters who are in search of something, like a sense of purpose or a connection to nature.
In Rick Bass short stories, one type of common character is the nature enthusiast. These are people who have a passion for the outdoors and are constantly exploring it. Another common character is the local resident who has a deep knowledge of the area and its history. They can provide insights to other characters or the reader about the land and its secrets. Also, there are characters who are facing some sort of internal conflict, and the natural setting becomes a backdrop for them to resolve this conflict, whether it's a young person trying to decide their future or someone dealing with a past trauma.