Striped bass, also called striper, are a popular game fish found in freshwater and saltwater bodies of water. If you want to catch these elusive fish, choosing the right bait or lure can make a huge difference. This post will discuss the best live bait and lure for striper fishing, with a focus on fishing for stripers in Texas.

Lures For Striper

Lures are artificial baits designed to look and move like natural baitfish. Striped bass are predators and are attracted to lures that mimic their natural prey. Here are some of the best lures for striper fishing in Texas:

Jigging spoons

Jigging spoons are metal lures that can be jigged up and down in the water column. They mimic injured baitfish and work well in both freshwater and saltwater. In Texas, striper often feed on small shad or minnows, so a silver or white jigging spoon can be a great choice.

Swimbaits

Swimbaits are soft plastic lures designed to imitate the swimming action of baitfish. They work well in clear water and can be used on a jighead or a weighted hook. A green pumpkin or chartreuse swimbait can be effective for Texas striper.

Topwater plugs

Topwater plugs are lures that float on the surface of the water and create a commotion when retrieved. They work well in low light conditions and can elicit explosive strikes from striped bass. In Texas, a silver or white topwater plug can be a good choice.

Live Bait For Striper

Live bait is a natural option that can be very effective for catching striped bass. It can be used in both freshwater and saltwater and can be found at most bait and tackle shops. Here are some of the best live baits for striper fishing in Texas:

Shad

Shad are a common baitfish that striped bass feed on. They can be caught using a cast net or a sabiki rig and fished live on a hook or cut into chunks. In Texas, you can find shad in most lakes and reservoirs, so they can be a great choice for live bait.

Herring

Herring are another common baitfish that striped bass feed on. They can be caught using a cast net or a sabiki rig and fished live on a hook or cut into chunks. Herring are more commonly found in saltwater areas, such as Galveston Bay or the Gulf of Mexico.

Eels

Eels are a popular live bait for striper fishing in saltwater. They can be fished on a hook or a fishfinder rig and are effective when fished near structure or in deep water. In Texas, eels can be found in the Gulf of Mexico and other coastal areas.

When choosing the best bait or lure for striper fishing in Texas, it’s important to consider the water conditions and the behavior of the fish. In clear water, lures that mimic natural baitfish are most effective, while in murky water, brighter lures or baits with scent can be more effective. Consider the feeding depth of fish and choose a lure or bait for fishing at that depth.

Final Thoughts for Striper Fishing

The best live bait and lure for striper fishing in Texas are those that mimic the movement and appearance of natural baitfish. Jigging spoons, swimbaits, and topwater plugs are effective lures, while shad, herring, and eels are popular live baits. By choosing the right bait or lure and using the right technique, you can increase your chances of catching more striped bass in Texas waters. If all else fails, then hire a guide like Stiper Express. Captain Chris knows where the fish live.

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