Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing Tips

Hybrid striped bass are also known as "wipers."

A cross between white and striped bass, the hybrid striped bass is a popular freshwater game fish. Hybrid stripers are known for their ability to run and put up scrappy fights when hooked. Sometimes called "wipers," hybrid striped bass are planted in several U.S. waters where pure striper populations are low because of deteriorating environments. Fishing hybrid striped bass can offer a slightly different, yet rewarding fishing experience. Some basic tips about the species and how to hunt them is all one needs to begin successfully landing a great number of fish.

Suitable Water Conditions

Generally, hybrid stripers tend to avoid other fish, especially predators. Hybrids are usually found in deep pools and will hover around dropoffs. In streams and rivers, fishing is usually best near cool eddies, calm pools and near rock faces. They are also abundant near the mouths of moving water where they feed on small bait fish brought to them by currents.

Seasonal Success

Beginning in early spring and into summer, hybrid striped bass are extremely active and can be caught in areas where they are common. In fall, like their cousin, the striped bass, hybrids will school and feed on a variety of food near the water surface (called a boil). While fall hybrid boils are not as pronounced as those of the pure striper, they do offer solid fishing well into fall months. In fall, casts into deep, open waters will produce fish, while moving streams and rivers are often hot beds.

Lures and Tackle

Generally a fast-striking fish, hybrid striped bass are often suckers for flashy, moving lures. Most experienced hybrid anglers prefer crank baits, jigs, spoons and large, diving and top water lures, which are often the most successful in fall and moving water. Because hybrid stripers are capable of fighting like a pike, novice anglers tend to overcompensate with heavy tackle, which is simply not needed. Light to medium rods will allow for better feel and the ability to set hooks quickly. Line strength of eight to 10 pounds, on a standard spinning reel, will allow for long casts and enough strength to reel in a running wiper.

References

• Angler's Edge Fishing and Marine

Resources

• About Rods and Reels
• Hybrid Striped Bass: Biology and Life History