The Best Bait for Striped Bass on the Hudson River
If you're looking to hook a big striped bass in the Hudson River, choosing the right bait is key. Stripers are opportunistic feeders, and their diet changes with the seasons, water conditions, and baitfish migration patterns. Whether you're fishing from a pier, a boat, or the shoreline, using the best bait can mean the difference between a slow day and landing a trophy fish. Here’s a breakdown of the top baits for striped bass on the Hudson.
1. Live Bait – The Ultimate Striper Magnet
Nothing beats live bait when targeting big stripers, especially in the spring and fall when they are feeding aggressively.
Bunker (Menhaden) – One of the best baits for striped bass, bunker are naturally abundant in the Hudson. Use them live for trophy-sized fish or cut them into chunks for steady action.
Eels – Striped bass can’t resist live eels, particularly in deep channels or strong currents. Rig them on a circle hook and let them swim naturally.
Herring – During the spring migration, live herring is a top choice. Check regulations, as certain areas restrict their use.
2. Cut Bait – A Reliable Choice for Pier and Shore Anglers
Cut bait works exceptionally well when stripers are actively feeding but also entices sluggish fish due to its scent.
Chunked Bunker – If live bait isn’t available, fresh bunker chunks are a great alternative. Use larger pieces for big fish and smaller ones to attract schoolies.
Fresh Herring – When herring are running, cut them into chunks and fish them on a bottom rig.
Mackerel – A strong-smelling bait that works well when fresh, especially during cooler months.
3. Artificial Lures – When Live Bait Isn’t an Option
If you prefer artificial lures, certain options effectively mimic baitfish and trigger aggressive strikes.
Soft Plastics (Paddle Tails, Shads) – Great for jigging near structure and along pier pilings.
Bucktail Jigs – A classic for stripers, especially when tipped with a soft plastic or a strip of fresh bait.
Topwater Plugs (Poppers, Walk-the-Dog Lures) – Use these at dawn or dusk when stripers are feeding near the surface.
Swimbaits – When retrieved slowly, they imitate bunker or herring, making them effective year-round.
4. When to Use Each Bait
Spring (March-May): Live herring and bunker work best as stripers migrate into the Hudson.
Summer (June-August): Stripers become more selective; live eels and cut bait work well at night.
Fall (September-November): Bunker chunks and artificial lures shine as stripers feed aggressively before migrating south.
Winter (December-February): Fewer stripers are around, but those that stay might take cut bait or slow-moving lures.
Final Thoughts
The best bait for striped bass on the Hudson River depends on the season and fishing conditions. Live bait is king, but fresh cut bait and well-presented lures can also get the job done. Experiment with different options, and always check local regulations on bait use and size limits.
Tight lines, and good luck out there! 🎣
