Striped Bass Plugging
Recommended Rod & Reel
For throwing big plugs a Stripers, we recommend a spinning rod and reel combo consisting of a Penn Conquer 7000 on a 7′ Penn Torque spinning rod (model TG1530S70). This is a very versatile spinning outfit and was perfect for throwing big plugs very long distances.
Recommended Line, Leader, and Terminal Tackle
We recommend loading the reel with 20lb Berkley Fireline Crystal which is attached to a 3ft length of 30-50lb Berkley Big Game Fluorocarbon leader using a #10 Mustad Rolling Swivel. The small profile of the swivel virtually eliminates any chance of picking up debris.
Surface Plug Retrieval for Stripers
As with any popping lure the angler should always experiment with different retrieval speeds. If a fish strikes at the lure and misses be sure to pause for a moment to give the fish a chance to gather itself before it strikes again.
Common Fishing Mistakes
One of the most common angler errors happens when the fish misses the lure and the angler takes a swing to set the hook and ends up pulling the lure out of the hit zone and eliminating the chance for a second strike. Always be sure the line is tight and the fish is on before setting the hook.
Another common mistake is that the fish strikes the lure, hooks itself, and the angler just starts fighting the fish without ever setting the hook. Though stripers never jump, they will thrash on the surface and unhook themselves. Remember to set the hook!
Changing Hooks
We rarely get the manufacturers original hooks to withstand a season of repeated saltwater use. In many cases we switch the hooks directly out of the package and always replace them with 4/0 Mustad Ultrapoint 3X (36329NP-BN) or the (3561ED). These are simply the sharpest and toughest trebles we have ever used. The finish is more corrosion resistant than any original hooks supplied by the lure manufacturers.
Crushing Hook Barbs
Unless you are fishing in a tournament you should always crush the barbs on all treble hooks. It might cost you a fish or two, but plugging is rarely used to target trophy fish (except from the surf). By crushing the barbs you minimize any damage that might be done to the fish. Even more importantly, most angler/hook accidents occur when plugging. Smaller fish are easy to bring to the boat and are typically green (very lively). It doesn’t take much of a head shake or a slip while holding them to end up getting hooked. It can be very difficult to remove a barbed hook from an angler.
Recommended Striped Bass Plugs
The lures we recommend for targeting breaking fish are the Guides Choice Slider and Guides Choice Popper. Both of these lures provide incredible casting distance and irresistible action!
The lure you should use for targeting fish feeding on herring, mackerel, and other finfish is the Guides Choice Slider.
See the entire selection of Guides Choice Lures at Captain Jackies.
