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Striped Bass

Striped Bass

Striped Bass are native to the Atlantic Coast but are present in Wisconsin primarily as an introduced species found in very limited numbers.

They are anadromous fish that naturally spawn in brackish waters and coastal rivers, spending adult lives in marine environments before returning to freshwater tributaries to spawn.

They are voracious predators and powerful fighters known for their aggressive strikes and are highly sought after by anglers wherever they're found.

Scientific Name: Morone saxatilis

Physical Characteristics:
  • The species can grow quite large - up to 125 pounds on record - though Wisconsin specimens are much smaller.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Wisconsin's limited populations, they would likely inhabit deeper areas of larger lakes and river systems, particularly areas with current and adequate forage fish populations.

Key Locations

  • Documented catches primarily from the Fox River system in southeastern Wisconsin.
  • The Wisconsin DNR record shows a Striped Bass of 1 lb. 9.3 oz caught from the Fox River in Kenosha County in 1996.
  • Hybrid Striped Bass are more commonly found in Wisconsin's reservoir systems (13 lbs. 14.2 oz record from Lake Columbia in 2002).

Specific Spots

  • Focus fishing efforts around deeper river channels, current breaks, and areas with abundant forage fish.

Striped Bass FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Effective lures include large spinners, buzz baits, topwater poppers, and substantial baitfish imitations. Live bait options include large minnows, though artificial lures often prove more effective.

What flies work for Striped Bass in Wisconsin?

For fly fishing, larger streamers like Clousers, Deceivers, and baitfish patterns in sizes 2/0 to 4/0 work well.

How do you catch Striped Bass in Wisconsin?

Target times should focus on low-light conditions - dawn and dusk periods when these fish are most actively feeding. Night fishing can be productive, particularly during full moon periods when visibility allows for hunting.

What do Striped Bass eat?

They have diverse diets including alewife, anchovies, herring, menhaden, crabs, shrimp, worms, and various small fish. Striped Bass focus intensely on one food type at a time during feeding periods, making bait selection critical.

Where do Striped Bass live in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin's limited populations, they would likely inhabit deeper areas of larger lakes and river systems, particularly areas with current and adequate forage fish populations.

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