Striped bass

Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis), also known as Atlantic striped bass, stripers, linesiders, rock, or rockfish, is a large fish species native to the Atlantic coast of North America. It is a member of the temperate bass family, Moronidae, and is distinguished by the seven or eight dark, continuous stripes along the side of its body.

Description

Striped bass are elongated and slightly compressed at the sides. A characteristic feature of this fish is the presence of seven or eight dark, horizontal stripes on each side of the body. The first stripe runs from the back of the head to the base of the tail. The body is silvery, shading to olive-green on the back and white on the belly.

Distribution and habitat

Striped bass are native to the Atlantic coastline of North America, from the St. Lawrence River into the Gulf of Mexico. They are anadromous fish that migrate between fresh and salt water. Spawning takes place in fresh water.

Diet

Striped bass are opportunistic feeders and can be caught using a variety of methods. Their diet consists of small shrimp, crabs, eel, menhaden, flounder, herring, and more.

Fishing

Striped bass are a popular game fish, pursued by anglers with a variety of methods, including bait casting, fly fishing, trolling, and still fishing. They are known for their fighting ability and are considered by many to be among the most exciting of saltwater fish to pursue.

Conservation status

Striped bass populations have been subject to numerous threats, including overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Efforts to conserve and restore striped bass populations are ongoing.