About Stripers
River Fishing:
The standard rig for bait fishing is a sinker attached to a slider with a 3' leader and a 9/0 hook with a half hitch tied around the tail of the bait. In California the preferred bait is shad, in other areas bait should match what is available in the area. Herring, pile worms, shrimp, sardines, bullheads, and mudsuckers can all be good baits. Be sure and check their legality in the area you are fishing. A rod balancer will help pick up subtle bites.
One of the most important factors in striper fishing is water temperature. If the water is warmer than 56 degrees F, troll. If the water is cooler anchor up and bait fish.
For trolling the best lure is a large minnow, solid or broken back, with a 6 to 8" rubber trailer for added movement. Trolling is usually done at a relatively quick 5 knots. If you aren't successful, change your speed.
Bay Fishing:
Live bait fishing will provide the most consistent fishing in bays and estuaries. Particularly San Francisco Bay. Anchovies and sardines are the most common bait. Terminal tackle consists of a three way swivel with a sinker on a short dropper and the bait hooked through the nose on a short shank hook. Look for structure into which the tide will push bait fish. In the San Francisco Bay, popular spots are the South Tower of the Golden gate Bridge and the rocky underwater spots near the islands in Marin County.
Lake Fishing:
Get on the water at first light and try trolling large, deep diving plugs in the deeper sections of the lake. On the Colorado River, fish the tributaries where they join the main body of water.
After a day fly fishing the Delta with guide, Mike Costello of Pacific Adventures Outfitters, my husband and I are hooked deep on the sport. This big old gal was caught on January 19, 2003. She weighed in at 39 pounds and was caught on a white and brown fly my husband tied and on 20# tippet. After a quick weigh-in and pictures, she was released, unharmed. It was my only bite of the day, after watching my husband land fish after fish, most of the day. The fishing gods were definitely saving the best for last. Tight Lines,
Cheryl Armstrong, Chico California
