Striped Bass (Striper) Saltwater Fishing

Because of the popularity of striped bass fishinglength or one of this size and a second measuring
(also referred to as striper), these species havegreater than 32 inches.
been introduced into many large reservoirIt can be fruitful through the use of several
impoundments across the United States.different baits, and the choice is usually based on
However, this species is native to saltwater and isan angler's personal preference. Clams, anchovies,
found naturally all along the eastern seaboard,nightcrawlers, eels, bloodworms, sandworms,
populating the Atlantic coastline from as far northherring, shad, chicken livers, and menhaden can all
as Nova Scotia to the southern reaches of Florida.be great baits for striper saltwater fishing, just to
They can easily be caught as far north as Hudsonname a few. Basically, striped bass are
Bay, as well.opportunistic feeders and look for the easiest
Striper saltwater fishing is an especially popularcatch they can find, making most baits work for
sport in the Chesapeake Bay area and itsattracting their attention.
tributaries, in Virginia. In fact, many anglers set upInterestingly enough, during winter months when
shop to wait for the early return of striped bassthe oceans become too cool for their liking,
after the spawning activity to the north everystripers will migrate into freshwater environments,
year in May, anxious to grab that first specimen.traveling hundreds of miles up river to find a
This influx into the bay is usually a good measurewarmer climate until spring returns.
of what can be seen in terms of size of theDuring the winter, striped bass saltwater fishing is
striped bass. Striper saltwater fishing regularlymost proficient in the southern states, with their
produces specimens in excess of 50 pounds andmigratory pattern taking them down to areas
four feet in length. For this reason, the regulationsalong the East Coast between the Carolinas and
set on fishing in the Chesapeake Bay area are notthe Hudson River in New York. However, during
all that difficult to abide by (with the exception ofsummer months, you'll find them further north,
wanting to catch greater numbers!).highly concentrated around Long Island in New
The daily limit for the first half of May is a singleYork and in portions of Rhode Island and
striper that measures at least 32 inches. FromMassachusetts, though they can be tracked as
mid-May to mid-June, this increases to a limit offar south as New Jersey and north through Maine
two, either both between 18 and 28 inches inand even into Canadian waters.