Springtime is a popular time for fishing striped bass, also known as rockfish or striper, in the Northeast region of the United States. As the water begins to warm up, striped bass start to move towards the surface in search of food, making them more accessible to anglers. These predatory fish can be found in the coastal waters of the region, and are prized by anglers for their size, strength, and fighting ability.
One effective technique for catching striped bass in the spring is to use live bait, such as menhaden, eels, or herring. These baitfish can be fished on the bottom using a variety of rigs, or they can be suspended under a bobber to mimic the natural movement of a wounded baitfish. Striped bass are also attracted to lures, particularly when they are more actively feeding near the surface. Topwater lures, such as poppers and streamers, can be worked slowly and erratically to mimic the movements of a struggling baitfish. Soft plastic lures, such as grubs and worms, can also be effective when fished on a jig head or Carolina rig.
Another important factor to consider when fishing for striped bass in the spring is the water temperature. As the water begins to warm up, striped bass will start to move towards the surface in search of food, making them more accessible to anglers. Look for areas of the water where the temperature is between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit, as this is where striped bass are most likely to be found.
In addition to the technique and equipment you use, it's also important to pay attention to the location where you are fishing. Striped bass are often found near structure, such as drop-offs, points, and underwater ledges, and can also be found near schools of baitfish. Look for these types of areas when trying to locate striped bass, and be prepared to move around and try different spots if you aren't having success in one area.
Overall, the key to success when fishing for striped bass in the spring in the Northeast is to be patient and to experiment with different techniques and lures until you find what works best. With a little bit of practice and persistence, you'll be well on your way to landing some trophy-sized striped bass.