Skip to content
RigMyFishFind a Rig

How to Rig for Striped Bass

Morone saxatilis

Stripers ambush bait around current breaks, river mouths, and rocky points. A sliding weight lets them run with bait before you set, key for a fish known for finicky pickups.

Realistic reference image of Striped Bass
Illustrative reference visual · verify legal identification with CDFW
Answer at a glance
Best rig
Fish-Finder Rig
Best bait
Live Anchovy, Whole Baitfish (Mackerel/Sardine)
Where
surf, jetty, boat, river
Typical size
18–40 in
Season
Peak season: spring, fall
Realistic Fish-Finder Rig fishing rig setup
#1 Best Match

Fish-Finder Rig

beginnersurf · jetty · boat · river

The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

  • Main line15-20 lb monofilament
  • Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
  • Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
  • Hooks2/0 - 4/0 circle hook
  • WeightSliding egg sinker, 1-3oz
  • Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
  • BaitLive mackerel or swimbait
Open complete guide →
Main lineThree-way swivelDropper6-18inBank sinkerLeader 24-48inHook
Three-Way Rig
A three-way swivel splits the rig into a short dropper to the weight and a longer leader to the bait, so the bait swings just off the bottom while the weight bounces along below it.
View rig →
Source & regulation note

Technique guidance is educational. Seasons, size limits, bag limits, closures, and protected areas can change. Always verify the current rules before fishing or keeping fish.

CDFW Ocean Sport Fishing ↗Current CDFW ocean regulations ↗NOAA Fisheries / state agencies ↗Fisheries and Oceans Canada ↗Editorial methodology
Last reviewed: 2026-09-16

Common Questions

What is the best rig for Striped Bass?

The Fish-Finder Rig is the top recommendation for Striped Bass. The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.

What bait works for Striped Bass?

Live Anchovy, Whole Baitfish (Mackerel/Sardine) all work for Striped Bass. Tap any one for how to rig and store it.

When is the best time to catch Striped Bass?

Peak season: spring, fall. Typical size runs 18–40 in. Always check current regulations before keeping fish.

Where do you catch Striped Bass?

Striped Bass is caught while surf, jetty, boat, river fishing. Stripers ambush bait around current breaks, river mouths, and rocky points. A sliding weight lets them run with bait before you set, key for a fish known for finicky pickups.