Striped Bass

If you're looking to tangle with striped bass near Napa, the Napa River and its connection to the San Pablo Bay offers a promising fishery. These migratory fish move into the river system, especially during the spring spawning season and again in the fall as they follow baitfish. The best times to fish are typically during the incoming or outgoing tides, particularly around dawn and dusk. Focus your efforts around structure such as bridge pilings, docks, and channel edges. A local trick is to use live bait, such as mudsuckers or shiner perch, when available. Alternatively, swimbaits and crankbaits that mimic local forage can be effective. Public access is available at several points along the river, though a boat is recommended for reaching the more productive areas. The striped bass in the Napa River can range from smaller schoolie-sized fish to larger specimens, so be prepared for a potential fight. Be sure to check the local fishing regulations before you go.