Striped Bass

Seasons and Location

- Striped bass are commonly found in both saltwater and freshwater environments along the Atlantic coast of North America, from Florida to Nova Scotia. They are also present in the Gulf of Mexico and some inland lakes and rivers.
- Areas Found: Striped bass can be found near shorelines, estuaries, bays, inlets, and around structures such as rocks, jetties, and bridges. They often move in schools and can be seen feeding near the surface.
Spring and Fall: Striped bass exhibit seasonal migration patterns, with peak fishing seasons occurring during spring and fall. They tend to migrate northward in the spring and southward in the fall, providing excellent angling opportunities.
- Water Temperature: Striped bass prefer water temperatures between 55°F (12.8°C) and 68°F (20°C). They are more active in cooler waters and tend to seek deeper or cooler areas during the hottest parts of the summer.

Tendencies

- Feeding Behavior: Striped bass are opportunistic feeders and primarily prey on baitfish such as menhaden, herring, shad, and mullet. They also consume crustaceans like crabs and shrimp. They have sharp teeth and a strong predatory instinct.
- Migration Patterns: Striped bass undertake extensive migrations, moving along the coastlines, into rivers, and even traveling long distances between freshwater and saltwater environments. They follow schools of baitfish and seek suitable spawning grounds.
- Temperament: Striped bass can display aggressive feeding behavior, particularly when they are actively feeding. They may strike lures or bait with force and persistence.
- Power and Stamina: Striped bass are powerful swimmers and known for their strength and stamina when hooked. They are capable of making strong runs and putting up a good fight.

Lure Choice

- Topwater Lures: Striped bass can be enticed by topwater lures, especially when they are feeding near the surface. Poppers, walk-the-dog style lures, and surface plugs that mimic wounded baitfish can be effective.
- Swimbait and Soft Plastic Baits: Using swimbaits, shads, and jerkbaits in various sizes and colors can mimic the appearance and movement of baitfish. Retrieve them at different speeds and depths to attract striped bass.
- Jigs: Jigging with bucktail jigs, lead-head jigs, or paddle-tail jigs combined with soft plastic trailers can imitate injured baitfish or swimming crustaceans. Vary the retrieve technique to trigger strikes.
- Live Bait: Striped bass can be targeted using live bait such as live eels, bunker, or shad. Rigging them on a suitable hook and presenting them near structure or areas where striped bass are known to congregate can be effective.
- Strong Leaders: To prevent bite-offs from the striped bass' sharp teeth, it is advisable to use heavy fluorocarbon leaders when targeting them. This helps to prevent lost lures and tackle.