The Best Bait for Striped Bass on the Hudson River
Want to learn more about fishing for striped bass in Hoboken? Check out our Hoboken Fishing Handbook for all of the details you need to start catching fish!
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.
Bloodworms - Bloodworms are the most reliable bait for action. While you’ll typically catch smaller fish on bloodworms, it is the best all around bait when fishing in the Hudson River.
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. The challenge with fishing live eels is preventing them from tangling your rig. Rig them on an eel rig and bounce them along the bottom as opposed to just letting them sit.
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. The best piece is typically the head, hook it in through the chin and out the nose.
Shrimp – The best option that you can get a local grocery store if bait options are limited.
Eel – 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 Plastic swimbaits – Pair with a jig head 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.
Diamond Jigs – Use these at dawn or dusk when stripers are feeding near the surface.
4. How to rig the bait
There are two common rigs that are used when fishing with bait for striped bass in the Hudson river, the fish finder rig and the high low rig. The one that I have had the most success with is the fish finder rig.
The MOST common mistake that people make when fishing the Hudson river is not having enough weight on their rig. The current is very strong and if your bait is not able to stay in one place on the bottom you will not catch fish. In addition to your rig, you’ll need to have sinkers of varying weights in order to ensure that you are able to stay on the bottom regardless of how strong the current is.
5. When to Use Each Bait
Spring (March-May): Live and cut bunker work best as stripers migrate into the Hudson.
Summer (June-August): Stripers become more selective; bloodworms 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.
