Striped Bass

If you're looking to hook into some striped bass around Brooklyn, you're in for a treat. The waters surrounding this borough offer a unique mix of saltwater and brackish environments that these fish thrive in. The best time to target stripers here is during the spring and fall migrations, when they move in and out of the Hudson River and Long Island Sound. Focus your efforts around the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, where strong currents concentrate baitfish, and Jamaica Bay's backwaters, which offer calmer, shallower areas. A local tip: many anglers find success drifting live bunker chunks during the spring run. Also, be mindful of the water temperature; stripers tend to be more active when the water is between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Brooklyn's striper population is known for its aggressive feeding habits, so don't be afraid to use larger lures or baits.