Chasing Linesiders: A Guide to Striped Bass Fishing with Red Sands Reel & Outfitters
There’s something timeless about the tug of a striped bass on the line — the sudden surge of power, the chaos at the surface, and the satisfaction of a well-fought battle. At Red Sands Reel & Outfitters, we live for those moments. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just discovering the sport, striped bass (or “linesiders”) offer one of the most exciting inshore experiences on the water.
In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about targeting striped bass—from gear and tactics to timing and location—so you can hit the water with confidence and a little insider knowledge.
Why Striped Bass?
Striped bass are one of North America’s most sought-after game fish, known for their aggressive takes, hard runs, and incredible table fare. Found in both saltwater and freshwater systems, they’re especially popular along the Atlantic coast and in estuarine environments.
These fish are migratory, powerful, and notoriously unpredictable—making each encounter feel like a new puzzle to solve.
Best Time to Fish for Striped Bass
The striped bass season depends heavily on your region, but here’s a general breakdown:
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Spring (April–June): The bass begin their migration from the ocean into rivers and bays to spawn. This is one of the best times to catch large fish in shallow water.
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Fall (September–November): As water temperatures drop, striped bass feed aggressively to prepare for winter. Fall offers some of the most consistent action and is a favorite among trophy hunters.
At Red Sands Reel & Outfitters, we track these migration patterns carefully to put you in the right place at the right time.
Tackle & Gear Recommendations
Here at Red Sands, we outfit anglers with high-quality, dependable gear that can handle the strength and unpredictability of striped bass. Here’s what we typically recommend:
Rods & Reels
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Rod: Medium to medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting rod, 7–8 feet in length
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Reel: 4000–6000 size spinning reel with a smooth drag system
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Line: 20–30 lb braided line with a 20–40 lb fluorocarbon leader
Terminal Tackle
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Circle hooks (especially when live-lining bait)
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Swimbaits, poppers, and bucktail jigs
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Soft plastics on jig heads for finesse fishing
Need help rigging up? Stop by the shop or give us a call — we’ll get you set up for success.
Techniques That Work
Depending on where and how you’re fishing, here are a few tried-and-true methods:
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Live Bait Fishing
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Use eels, bunker, or mackerel on a circle hook with a fish-finder rig.
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Great for slow drifts over structure or anchoring up in current.
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Topwater Casting
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Ideal during low-light hours or when bass are blitzing bait on the surface.
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Try spooks, poppers, or pencil plugs for explosive strikes.
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Trolling
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Use umbrella rigs or deep-diving plugs to cover large areas.
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Effective when you’re searching for schools of bass in open water.
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Fly Fishing
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A growing favorite for shallow-water anglers.
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Use intermediate lines and deceivers or clousers during the early morning hours.
Where We Fish
At Red Sands Reel & Outfitters, we’re fortunate to be located near some of the best striped bass waters in the region. Whether you’re wading salt marshes, casting from rocky jetties, or heading offshore, our team knows the local waters like the back of their hands.
Want a local tip? We’re not shy—stop by the shop and we’ll point you toward the latest hot bite.
Final Thoughts
Striped bass fishing is more than just a pastime—it’s a tradition. The thrill of the fight, the camaraderie on the water, and the stories told back at the dock make every trip memorable.
Whether you’re looking to gear up, learn new techniques, or book a guided experience, Red Sands Reel & Outfitters is here to help. Let’s chase linesiders together.
Tight lines, and see you out there.
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Red Sands Reel & Outfitters
Your source for expert advice, quality gear, and unforgettable fishing experiences.