The fall striper season for the Chesapeake Bay and tidal tributaries opens tomorrow (October 4). Given that anglers are also seeing good catches of flounder, speckled trout, puppy drum, and spot, this is the time to fish the Bay.

Keep in mind that fall season limits for Chesapeake Bay anglers for stripers is two fish per person per day. One of the two fish can be between 18 and 28 inches. The second fish may be over 28 inches. No fish less than 18 inches can be kept. Note that anglers fishing in the Atlantic may keep two fish per day, but both fish must be longer than 28 inches.

This time of year, stripers are more likely to be taken in the early mornings and late afternoons. Try using Rat-L-Traps and other noisy crank baits, as well as Berkeley Gulp baits. Fish early in the season will be smaller, likely in the 20-25 inch range. Larger fish will move into the bay later in the season, probably in December to feed on schooling menhaden and shad.

The Fall striper season closes December 31, 2013. Please remember, too, that it is illegal to use a gaff on a striper in Virginia.

FISH ON!

 

fish, Fishing, striped bass, stripers, Virginia

By Sid

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