FISH SPECIES BIO: Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis)

By Peter J. Park

Photo from Mike Kroessig (http://www.marinecreations.com/)

The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) is the largest member of the Family Moronidae ("The Temperate Basses") and is easily recognized by its overall silver hue overlain by black stripes. They occur in coastal waters of the eastern US. The striped bass are ancestrally marine, but contemporary sea-run (i.e., live in the ocean but breed in freshwater) and resident freshwater populations are common. The striped bass is evolutionarily a true bass, unlike the largemouth bass.

There are two major migrations of striped bass along the northeastern U.S. The north shore of New York City and Long Island provide habitat for striped bass born in the Hudson River. In contrast, a majority of the striped bass found on the south shore of New York City and Long Island derive from Chesapeake Bay. At one time, about 90% of the Atlantic stock of sea-run striped bass came from the Chesapeake Bay. Remaining populations are scattered about rivers, estuaries, and tributaries across the northeast coastline, but these populations are substantially smaller. The striped bass have also been introduced in the west coast of the US, but those populations have not seen the success and popularity of their native counterparts on the east coast.

The striped bass is an opportunistic feeder. They are a voracious predator of various species of vertebrates (e.g., fishes) and invertebrates (e.g., squid, crustaceans, molluscs, worms).

Along the eastern seaboard, striped bass fishing has entranced anglers for decades. Millions of dollars are spent each year on striped bass-related merchandise and fishing tackle. One of the most expensive spinning reels available in today’s fishing market is designed specifically for surf fishing striped bass. Many anglers have dedicated their entire lives to pursuing a trophy striper, often at the abandonment of chasing other sport fish (among other things):

What is it about the striped bass that makes it the ideal sport fish? The table quality of the striped bass is superb. It also has quite the aesthetic appeal.  However, the main reason why this fish is so popular is probably because it frequents shallow, inshore waters, making it accessible to anglers from the shore. In fact, the shorebound world record striped bass (78lbs 8oz) was caught off a jetty by a surf fisherman in Atlantic City, NJ. From Maine down to North Carolina, millions of anglers cast out lures (called “plugs” by NY locals) or bait (called “chunks” by NY locals) trying to catch migrating stripers. When the Spring or Fall migration is in full swing, it is not uncommon for surf fishermen to prepare themselves for an extreme streak of fishing at any cost. D. J. Muller, author of The Surfcaster’s Guide to the Striper Coast eloquently describes this pursuit as follows:

"Surfcasting for striped bass is an experience rich in emotions, special places and unique people. Depending upon how well you know one of them, surfcasters are a special breed of fishermen; sometimes hard to get to know, seemingly half crazy in their quest, exceptionally dedicated and extremely clannish. They face special challenges, but also reap memorable rewards that most mere mortal never get to see, feel or brag about. The entire experience of surfcasting is one to be nursed and cherished for many years, and passed on to the next generation. Toss into the mix a combination of loyal friendships, solitude, a spellbinding ocean, a small army of unforgettable characters, and an absolutely amazing gamefish, and you have all the ingredients for an incredible lifelong fishing journey." (pg. 15)

A fair share of boat fishermen also target striped bass, making this species a favorite among so many anglers.

Capt. Paul Peluso (Mamamia Fishing Charters, Moriches, NY)

WHY SHOULD WE CARE ABOUT THE STRIPED BASS FISHERY?

Hear what Capt. Bob Rocchetta, NY State Striped Bass Record Holder and Full-Time Charter Captain (Rainbow Charters, Orient Point, NY), has to say on the topic. Exclusive interview with Nyack College Fishing Club: