The Best Striped Bass Bait: How and When to Use

Striped Bass, or how they are often called "Stripers," are one of the most sought-after fish in North America, admired for their size, strength, and always by default, an exciting fight. Their appearance, from their behavior to their diet, is fascinating and challenging. Adaptable and intriguing, Stripers can be found in salt and freshwater, and their eating habits change accordingly.

If you are a dedicated angler, you know that the more challenging the fish, the more fun it is to create a strategy and choose bait. The variety is huge, from live ones like eels and bunkers to artificial ones like plugs and swimbaits. However, this guide will determine which one works best and when.

We will present you with the best baits, teach you how to use them effectively, adapt to the environment, and get the most out of them. So, let's go!

Understanding Striped Bass

The Striped Bass kind of has it all. It is a favorite among anglers because of its size, tasty meat, availability in different water bodies, and unpredictable behavior. It has sharp senses and is a large opportunistic predator that, depending on its habitat, feeds on small fish, crabs, and even squid.

What gives it a special touch of angling intrigue is that its wits and occasional pickiness mean you'll need patience and precision to outsmart it. It is precisely their adaptability to fresh and saltwater and accessibility that makes them a highly sought-after species. 

The most important thing is that they are not a boring species. On the contrary, they are very combative and intense, increasing the excitement of the catch. They can be fished from the estuary, shore, boat, or jetty, and as a versatile species, they constantly challenge anglers to catch them repeatedly.

Habitat and Behavior

A variety of habitats in which it adapts well are the main features of this species. When it comes to bait, you can catch them on a variety of live and artificial baits. Here is where these striped fish usually swim.

Rivers and Streams

If you want to fish for Striped Bass in streams, you should fish fast-moving water with lots of structure, like rocks or submerged logs. This is where Striped Bass hide, preying on small fish and crustaceans. Therefore, your best options are live bait or throwing soft plastics into eddies.

Lakes and Reservoirs

Striped Bass like oxygen-rich water, usually found in deep water in freshwater environments. During the summer, they school near the thermocline, and in the colder months, they move towards shallower areas. For lakes and reservoirs, the best options are trolling with swimbaits or using live shad.

Coastal Waters and Estuaries

This fish prefers coastal waters and estuaries in brackish water areas. It feeds on bait such as menhaden, herring, and mackerel. During the tides, it patrols the channels and drop-offs, using the currents to ambush its prey. 

Striped Bass are intelligent hunters, so it's not a bad idea to be innovative and bait them here with live bait such as eels or chunk bait. Fish during dawn and dusk when activity is at its peak.

Transitional Areas

These are areas of great contrast, either in underwater structures or in mixing different waters, such as salt and freshwater. These areas are also very rich in food for Striped Bass, and they benefit from water currents and tides created by structures such as dikes and canals to their advantage, which they use to ambush their prey.

At the same time, these are excellent places for anglers to mix strategic techniques and bait with live options such as eels or chunk bait. 

Best Time to Catch Striped Bass

Timing is key to hunting this species, and its activity levels and feeding patterns change with the seasons, water temperature, and light conditions. Generally, hunting them in spring and fall is best because they are transitional seasons and are most active in moderate temperatures.

Seasonal Behaviour

Although spring and autumn provide the most optimal conditions for catching these fish, they can be caught throughout the year. Of course, the bait, technique, and entire approach must be adjusted.

Spring

Spring is the season for Striped Bass to recover from the winter and the period of aggressive feeding. He hunts everything because he needs to regain his strength. For anglers, this means that they are best baited with live bait such as shad or herring, which works best, as well as bait that mimics their natural prey.

Summer

Stripers retreat to deeper water during the summer, looking for a cool undercurrent or better hunting grounds. They are not aggressive like in the spring but intense and combative. To reach them, trolling and jigging work best with deep-diving, bucktail jigs, or live bait.

Fall

Stripers also feed intensively during the fall, but this time they are gathering strength for the winter. They are very aggressive and suitable for larger lures such as swimbaits and plugs that mimic injured fish.

Winter

They are active but significantly less active and much more selective. Slow presentations with live eels or soft plastics are ideal during winter. By understanding their behavior and adjusting your bait selection, you'll be well on your way to landing the Striped Bass you want in any season!

Best Live Baits for Striped Bass

This powerful fish, known for its strength, fighting spirit, and great popularity, is a real challenge to catch, but the result is usually a real reward. Since Striped Bass is considered one of the most cunning predators in the water, anglers often opt for live bait. 

However, it's not always about the choice but also about presentation and knowing when and where to use them. Let's look at the most popular live baits for catching Striped Bass.

Eels

Eels are an essential live bait used for Striped Bass fishing. Their slender, snake-like shape attracts Striped Bass, and their natural mobility significantly increases the chances of catching them. They have proven very effective when fishing at night and in coastal waters, where Striped Bass often come out to hunt. 

They are efficient, so they can be used whole, alive or dead, depending on the situation. The presentation must be slow and natural, so letting the eel swim freely with a light pull is best. They work best in places with strong currents, near rocks, bridges, and docks. With good skill, eels can catch even the largest specimens.

Shad

Shad is a favorite food of Striped Bass and, as such, a very natural bait. It can be used live or in pieces and works best for fishing in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. When alive, shad attracts the attention of Stripers with its natural movements and glare of light. 

If you use it as a dead bait, its flesh and scent are seductive to Striped Bass. Hook it through the back or lips, allowing it to move freely. Focus on this bait during the spring and summer, when it naturally appears in more significant numbers.

Herring

Herring is a bait that never disappoints. It is a natural prey in many coastal and estuarine ecosystems. It can be used whole, as a fillet, or even in pieces. Although fresh is most effective, the frozen version can also be successful. 

It is essential to keep the presentation slow when fishing for herring, whether drift fishing or trolling. These methods work best in the spring and fall. Drift fishing is also a good option if you fish near the herring's natural habitat, such as river mouths and coastal areas.

Menhaden

Menhaden is one of the most versatile baits used for Striped Bass fishing. It is a fatty fish, rich in oils, irresistible to these predators, and can be used whole or in pieces. If you opt for a whole menhaden, with some luck, you will attract trophy-sized Striped Bass. 

Drift fishing and bottom fishing are the most effective techniques for using this bait, especially in coastal waters near shallows or in places with shallow water.

Crabs

Soft-shelled crabs, in particular, are one of the favorite treats of Striped Bass, especially during the summer months. Their natural texture and smell attract even the most cautious specimens, and the best way to use them is to rig the crabs whole or in pieces, depending on the size of the hook.

They are mainly used for fishing in calmer waters, such as bays, lagoons, and slow-flowing areas. It is recommended to fish during low tide when the Striped Bass approaches shallower waters in search of prey.

Best Artificial Bait for Striped Bass

Sometimes, live baits are not enough for success, but fortunately, many artificial baits come into play. There are many possibilities for adapting to various fishing conditions for Striped Bass fishing, from those that imitate fish in motion to soft plastic lures that attract attention and intrigue even the most cautious specimens.

Flexible and creative, artificial lures can be adapted to any environment where Striped Bass can be found. Below, we present our selection.

Poppers

Poppers are fun, creative, and, most importantly, great for attracting Striped Bass to the surface. Their unique design creates the famous "plop" sound and splash when pulled, which draws attention. They are especially effective during the early morning and late evening hours when Striped Bass mainly hunt on the surface.

They come in various sizes and colors, but the most common are the lighter varieties, which better imitate prey such as smaller fish or insects. Poppers must be guided correctly with light jerks and then paused to create the illusion of a wounded fish. Poppers provide exciting and visually attractive fishing.

Jigs

Jigs with several plastic attachments are also among the most popular choices for Striped Bass. They are universal and easily adjustable, and with a quality presentation, they will imitate eel or shad. This allows the lure to move naturally through the water, which Striped Bass will find difficult to ignore. 

They are suitable for fishing in deeper water, near structures such as rocks, reefs, or submerged wooden logs. Present the bait by slowly pulling the jig with occasional jerks to simulate the movements of the prey.

Spoons 

Spoons are classic lures effectively used for Striped Bass fishing for decades. They have a metallic sheen, which, in combination with the attacks of the wounded, imitates the reflections and movements of fish. 

Spoons are primarily used for trolling techniques or fast pulling in open water. Gold and silver are the most popular colors because they best reflect light, even in very cloudy waters. These lures work best in deep lakes and inshore areas, and experimenting with drag speed can help attract more prominent Striped Bass.

Minnow 

They are designed to look and move like real prey, such as shad or herring. They come in various sizes, from smaller models for shallow water to larger ones for deep water. They are most effective in coastal areas and rivers because they are easy to adapt and relatively quickly make a subtle presentation on the water.

White, silver, and natural-color samples are the most popular because they faithfully imitate Bass's natural food. They are perfect for situations where you need to attract attention and quickly create instant distractions.

Spinnerbaits

This type of freshwater lure will be used during the winter hunt. It is known for eliciting a response even when the Striped Bass are not active in courtship. Its metal leaves create reflections and vibrations that imitate fish in motion, while plastic accessories add to the appeal of the shell. 

They work well on spinnerbaits in murky to moderately clear waters and are saved for use near structures, such as submerged rocks and branches, where Striped Bass often hide. You can pull them evenly or with occasional jerks to increase attractiveness.

Expert Tips for Striped Bass Fishing

Targeting Striped Bass requires knowledge, patience, and the right strategy. It is not easy to choose with Striped Bass, as this fish is known for its strength, speed, and unpredictable behavior. This means that even experienced anglers must always be on top of their game and have top-notch equipment, that is, one that supports the strategy and the environment in which they fish.

Choosing the Right Gear

Striped Bass requires a more experienced angler and equipment that balances power, durability, and finesse. Depending on where you are fishing, whether in open water or near rocky shores, the right equipment will ensure your skills are up for an exciting battle. 

• Higher-Quality Rods: Equip yourself with medium- to heavy rods between 6.5 and 8 feet long, made of better-quality construction. These rods will give you the power to fight aggressive Striped Bass while maintaining enough sensitivity.
• Strong Reel: It is important to have a sturdy spinning or casting reel with a smooth drag system, as Striped Bass can pull hard.
• Strong Line: Use braided or monofilament lines in the 15 to 30 lb range for these fish. The braided lines are stronger, while monofilament provides more stretch.
• Accessories: It's not a bad idea to have a good-quality fish finder for locating schools, polarized sunglasses for spotting fish in the water, and a net for safely handling the catch.

You cannot catch Striped Bass without the proper equipment. This species is difficult to catch, especially if you aim for larger specimens.

Customize Lures and Colors

Striped Bass are attracted to the color and movement of their baits and lures. So, if you are fishing in clear waters, it would be best to rely on shades such as silver, white, or green, symbols for Striped Bass. Use swimbaits and jerk baits in these shades because they are irresistible to this fish when presented well.

If fishing in darker waters or conditions, use brighter or reflective colors such as yellow, gold, or chartreuse, which improve visibility and attract attention. It is also not a bad idea to use those that shimmer or flash, which are a real imitation of the bait fish fleeing.

Popular Techniques for Striped Bass

Striped Bass is a powerful fish, and hunting it requires a perfect combination of skill and quick adaptation. Unpredictable and powerful, it can often turn the fishing game in its favor. Therefore, anglers usually choose the following techniques.

Trolling

A classic and always up-to-date technique that will help you deal with large trophy specimens of Striped Bass. Trolling involves dragging the bait behind the boat while moving through the water and works best for covering large areas and finding schools of Striped Bass. Baits such as lures or live fish are used, and the depth is controlled with downriggers or lead nylons. 

It's important to hit the right speed; too fast can repel fish, while too slow can make the bait less attractive. The best speed is usually between 2 and 3 knots. Trolling is especially effective during Striped Bass migrations, allowing you to follow their movements.

Casting and Retrieving

This is a simple but effective technique for playing and experimenting with lures. It involves casting a lure and dragging it through the water to mimic the movement of a wounded fish. This technique works best in shallow water, near shore, or around structures such as rocks, piers, and wooden barriers.

For Striped Bass, most colors will do the job, even so well that they provoke aggressive attacks, mainly when used in Striped Bass hunt areas. It is important to experiment with the speed of the pull, but in general, this technique offers anglers the opportunity to enjoy a visual spectacle.

Live Bait Fishing

One of the most effective ways of fishing for Striped Bass is to fish with live bait, such as eels, horse mackerel, or bunkers. The bait is placed on circle hooks and allowed to move naturally in the water, which gives the best results in areas with strong currents or along the edges of underwater slopes. 

The key to success is positioning the bait close to the bottom in deeper waters or the middle layers of water, i.e., the main areas where these fish feed.

Jigging

If you have located Bass at greater depths or near schools, jigging is the best technique for such situations. Jigging is the vertical raising and lowering of metal jigs or soft lures. This method is especially effective near underwater structures or deep canyons, where Striped Bass often congregate in search of prey. 

It is important to control the rhythm and intensity of movement. Jigging requires good coordination and a sense of the moment, especially when playing Striped Bass.

 Fly Fishing

Although it can be very challenging, fly fishing is a technique that can catch Striped Bass, and it is difficult. It is used mainly in shallow waters, estuaries, and when fish are feeding on the surface. 

It requires using heavier lines and flies that imitate baitfish. As always, success in fly fishing lies in the accuracy of casting and the presentation of the bait, which must appear as natural as possible. However, fly fishing offers a technical challenge and an incredible connection with nature.

Safety Tips for Striped Bass Fishing

Fishing for Striped Bass can be exciting by default, but safety should always come first. Following basic safety rules is essential whether you fish from shore, a boat, or open water.

• Life Jacket: A life jacket is a must if you are fishing from a boat or deep water. Water is always dangerous, and unexpected waves, slippery terrain, or loss of balance can easily occur.
• Check the Forecast: Be alert to changing weather conditions, such as storms or strong winds. Make a return plan if you notice sudden changes in the sky or water.
• Layered Wearing: Weather conditions can change significantly during the day, so layered clothing is the best option. Sunscreen, a first aid kit, and polarized glasses are always smart options.
• Careful Gear Handling: Hooks, knives, and other fishing tools can cause injury, so keep them safe and use proper protection.
• Fish with a Company: Bring someone with you or let friends and family know where you are, especially in remote locations.

Safety is the basis of every angler, especially one in deep water. Take care of your gear so you can focus on what you love most – Striped Bass fishing!

Fishing Regulations and Ethical Practices

In addition to skill and excitement, it is always important to be responsible when fishing for Striped Bass. To preserve fish populations and protect the environment, anglers must follow local regulations, including size and catch limits, seasonal restrictions, and licensing requirements.

These rules vary from region to region, so always check with local authorities. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) is a well-known organization that monitors the Striped Bass population, among other species. It is responsible for areas along the Atlantic coast of the United States of America.

Also, avoid littering, properly dispose of old fishing lines and hooks, and stick to designated areas to minimize habitat disturbance. Ethical equipment, such as circle hooks, will significantly reduce fish injuries and prevent damage to unintended species. In this way, you will promote responsible fishing for species and the environment, but also for future generations of anglers.

Final Thoughts 

While it may seem simple, choosing the right bait for Striped Bass is not always easy. You may prefer live or artificial bait, but sometimes the conditions dictate your choice, as each bait brings its unique advantages, and experimenting with different options is a good idea, especially if you are a beginner.

As always, we look forward to your feedback, so feel free to write your experiences with Striped Bass fishing in the comments section. What bait do you use, where and how, and which species dominate your tackle box? In the meantime, happy fishing!