How to Catch Striped Bass

Striped bass are a game fish that originate along the Atlantic coast and rivers that empty into the Atlantic. Although striped bass originate in salt water, they are easily adaptable to fresh water and have been successfully introduced into many inland lakes. As a sport fish as well as a way to control nuisance smaller fish species, striped bass have come to be a much sought after game fish that generates a great deal of associated income for many state wildlife funds.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

7 or 8 foot heavy weight rod Bait cast or spinning reel of appropriate size Large game fish line no lighter than 15 pound test Bait such as blood worms, shad, large minnows and various plugs
7 or 8 foot heavy weight rod
Bait cast or spinning reel of appropriate size
Large game fish line no lighter than 15 pound test
Bait such as blood worms, shad, large minnows and various plugs

Step 1

Choose a location along the shore such as rock outcroppings and other structures. Striped bass also feed at points where rivers and streams empty into lakes or the ocean, as bait fish tend to gather there. Also watch for low flying gatherings of sea gulls, which will often indicate larger schools of the bait fish that often attract the larger striped bass.

Step 2

Choose a lure or bait that will closely imitate what the striped are feeding on. When fishing along the shore line, a good choice is a plug or similar swim bait. Plugs and swim baits are also good choices for fishing schools of fish as indicated by sea gulls. Fishing deeper waters may require trolling from a boat, which will involve long runs of line with baits such as blood worms or shad.

Step 3

Present the lure or bait to the striped bass and allow the bait to work with the current of the water. Move the bait in a manner consistent with a small fish. Imitating an injured fish is an excellent method for attracting striped bass who may be searching for an easy meal.

Step 4

Allow striped bass to take the hook completely before setting the hook. When the bait is first taken, there should be no more than 20 to 30 seconds until the hook is set. This will allow the fish time to take the bait and turn but not enough time to swallow the bait, which can result in a gut hook.

Step 5

Keep pressure on the line while playing and reeling the bass in. Do not allow the line to slack as this may allow the bass to throw the hook. Work the bass to the boat or land and net the fish with a large fish net to aid in lifting.

Tips & Warnings

Research current striped bass fishing conditions in the area that will be fished. Use the internet as well as conversations with local bait shops to obtain up to date information.

Fishing for larger game fish can always pose a possibility of injury to thrown hooks, placing baits or larger hooks, or working with tightly stretched higher strength lines.

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

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