Ohio Striper Fishing
Guide To Striped Bass & Hybrid Striper Fishing
Fishing for Stripers in Ohio
When fishing for stripers concentrate on the deeper waters in the lake. If you can locate schools of shad, stripers are often close by. When the baitfish are shallow over the deep water, you can catch stripers on crankbaits or by swimming spoons at appropriate depths. Check Ohio fishing reports for current striper information. And for the ultimate thrill try large topwater baits if you see any surface feeding action. When the stripers are deep, jigs and jigging spoons work well. Live and cut bait will also take striped bass when they are in medium to deeper water. Fish nearby or in the river channel if it is a defined depth change. Trolling is also an excellent way to fish for stripers. Use flashy lures in bigger sizes.
Striped Bass Fishing In Ohio
Ohio offers exciting opportunities for striped bass fishing, particularly for anglers targeting hybrid striped bass. Hybrid stripers, also known as wipers, are a crossbreed between striped bass and white bass. They possess the aggressive feeding habits and fighting abilities of their striped bass parentage, making them a sought-after species for anglers in the state. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about striped bass and hybrid stripers fishing and identify popular striper waters in the state.
Several major lakes in Ohio provide excellent habitat for hybrid striped bass. One of the most popular destinations is Salt Fork Lake, located in Guernsey County. This expansive lake offers ample opportunities for anglers to target hybrid stripers. Other notable lakes for hybrid striper fishing in Ohio include Alum Creek Lake, Deer Creek Lake, and Milton Lake.
Hybrid Striper Fishing In Ohio
Hybrid stripers can reach impressive sizes, with individuals weighing over 20 pounds not uncommon. Anglers typically employ various techniques to catch them, including trolling, casting with artificial lures, and using live bait such as shad or shiners. These fish are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked, providing an exhilarating experience for anglers.
Ohio has recorded notable catches of hybrid striped bass, with state records serving as testament to the potential trophy fish available. The current state record for hybrid striped bass in Ohio stands at nearly 20 pounds, highlighting the size and quality of fish that can be found in the state's lakes.
It's important for anglers to familiarize themselves with fishing regulations and bag limits specific to hybrid striped bass in Ohio. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) provides valuable information on fishing seasons, size limits, and creel limits for these species. Following these guidelines helps ensure the sustainability of the fishery and allows future generations of anglers to enjoy the thrill of striped bass fishing in Ohio's lakes.
Striper Fishing Lakes In OH
Buckeye Lake, Charles Mill Lake, Dale Walborn Reservoir, Deer Creek Lake, East Fork Lake, Lake Erie, New Hogan Lake, Senecaville Lake, and West Branch Lake all have (or had) populations of striped bass and/or hybrid stripers.
While stripers are native to salt water, they naturally migrate into fresh water streams to spawn. Their eggs must remain in motion in order to hatch so the fresh water rivers and streams become the ideal spawning grounds for stripers. Landlocked stripers and/or hybrid stripers (a cross between striped bass and white bass) then populate the lakes.
Striped Bass In Ohio
Striped Bass
Stripers
Inland world record: 64 lbs 8 oz
State Record: 37 lbs 2 oz
Hybrid Striped Bass
World record: 27 lbs 5 oz
State Record: 18 lbs 4 oz
Click the images and links above for species details.
West Branch Reservoir produced the Ohio state record striped bass.
Deer Creek Lake produced the OH state record hybrid bass.
Striper Fishing Video
Learn the basics for catching striped bass.
Striped bass fishing information, by state.