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Striped Bass

Striped Bass

Striped Bass are not native to Colorado but were introduced to the Colorado River system starting in 1959.

These anadromous fish have successfully established populations in Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, and Lake Havasu along the Colorado River, with natural reproduction occurring annually since the late 1970s.

Scientific Name: Morone saxatilis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Colorado River striped bass are characterized by their silvery bodies with distinctive horizontal dark stripes and can reach impressive sizes, though trophy fish over 45 pounds are now uncommon.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Adult striped bass prefer cooler, deeper waters of the metalimnion, while juveniles dominate the warm surface waters.

Key Locations

  • Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, and Lake Havasu along the Colorado River.
  • In Lake Mohave, target trophy adults.
  • Focus on areas near dam tailwaters like below Hoover Dam.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deep, well-oxygenated areas, especially near dam tailwaters like below Hoover Dam.

Striped Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Striped Bass in Colorado?

Use lures that imitate threadfin shad or trout - effective patterns include spinnerbaits and small swimbaits.

When is the best time to fish for Striped Bass in Colorado?

The best striped bass fishing in Colorado occurs from April through October, with peak fishing during late spring and early fall when water temperatures are between 50-80°F.

How do you catch Striped Bass in Colorado?

Use both surface and subsurface presentations. Match your presentation to the available forage.

What do Striped Bass eat?

Colorado River striped bass feed primarily on threadfin shad, gizzard shad, and in Lake Mohave, stocked rainbow trout. Larger fish can consume pelagic common carp and other sport fish unavailable to smaller stripers due to mouth size limitations.

Where do Striped Bass live in Colorado?

Adult striped bass prefer cooler, deeper waters of the metalimnion, while juveniles dominate the warm surface waters.

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