Top Striped Bass Fishing Spots Across the United States

Striped bass, also known as stripers, are migratory fish found along the Atlantic coast from Canada to Florida and in several inland lakes and rivers across the United States. Understanding where to find them is crucial for successful fishing.

Northeast Region

• Hudson River, New York The Hudson River is a prime location for striped bass fishing, especially during their spring migration. Stripers move into the river to spawn, creating excellent fishing opportunities. Key spots include the area around Kingston and the Tappan Zee Bridge. Anglers should focus on fishing during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods when the fish are most active.
• Chesapeake Bay, Maryland/Virginia Chesapeake Bay is renowned for its large striped bass population, especially in the spring and fall. The bay’s extensive network of tributaries provides numerous fishing spots. Areas such as the Susquehanna Flats, Eastern Bay, and the mouth of the Potomac River are particularly productive. Fishing near underwater structures and using live bait like eels can increase your chances of success.
• Cape Cod, Massachusetts Cape Cod offers a mix of coastal and offshore striped bass fishing. The Cape Cod Canal is a famous hotspot where strong currents and abundant baitfish attract large stripers. Other productive areas include Monomoy Island and the waters around Chatham. Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish, and using topwater lures can be particularly effective.

Mid-Atlantic Region

• Delaware River, New Jersey/Delaware The Delaware River is a significant striped bass fishery, especially during the spring migration. Key fishing areas include the tidal section of the river and the bay. Anglers often find success using bloodworms, clams, and bunker. The river’s structure, including drop-offs and eddies, provides excellent fishing opportunities.

• Outer Banks, North Carolina The Outer Banks offer diverse striped bass fishing, from surf casting to pier and boat fishing. Oregon Inlet and the surrounding beaches are known for their striper runs, particularly in the fall and winter. The use of cut bait, jigs, and live bait like menhaden is common. The area’s varied conditions require adaptable techniques.

Southern Region

• Lake Texoma, Texas/Oklahoma Known as the “Striper Capital of the World,” Lake Texoma provides year-round striped bass fishing. The lake’s clear water and abundant forage support a thriving striper population. Anglers typically use trolling methods with artificial lures or live shad. Popular spots include the Washita Point and the area near the Denison Dam.
• Santee Cooper Lakes, South Carolina Comprising Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie, the Santee Cooper Lakes are renowned for their trophy striped bass. Spring and fall are peak seasons, with fish congregating around submerged structures and drop-offs. Techniques such as trolling with bucktail jigs and live bait fishing with gizzard shad are effective.

Western Region

• San Francisco Bay, California The San Francisco Bay offers excellent striped bass fishing, especially during the spring and fall migrations. The bay’s diverse habitats, including flats, channels, and rock structures, provide ideal conditions for stripers. Anglers often use live bait like anchovies and sardines, as well as lures like swimbaits and jigs.
• Columbia River, Oregon/Washington The Columbia River’s striped bass fishery is less known but still productive, particularly in its lower sections. Striped bass here can be caught using live bait, artificial lures, and trolling methods. Areas around Astoria and the estuary are notable hotspots, especially during the summer months.

Other Notable Locations

• Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona Lake Powell’s striped bass population thrives in its deep, clear waters. Anglers can find success using cut bait, trolling, and casting lures around submerged structures. The lake’s unique desert environment provides a distinct fishing experience.
• Lake Mead, Nevada/Arizona Lake Mead is another premier striped bass fishery, with fish often found near deep water and structure. Night fishing with live bait is particularly effective. The lake’s vast size requires knowledge of specific hotspots, such as Boulder Basin and the Overton Arm.

Striped bass fishing in the US offers a wide range of locations, each with unique challenges and rewards. From the Hudson River in New York to Lake Texoma in Texas, understanding the best spots and techniques is key to a successful fishing trip. Always adhere to local regulations and practice responsible angling to ensure the sustainability of striped bass populations for future generations.