Fishing Techniques for Salt Water Enthusiasts – by YUK
Gearing Up for the Herring Run: Preparing for Striper Fishing in Massachusetts
Spring in Massachusetts means one thing for anglers – the annual herring run. As water temperatures rise and river herring push into coastal waters, striped bass are not far behind, eager to feed on these migrating baitfish. If you’re looking to take advantage of this prime fishing season, here’s everything you need to gear up and get ready.
1. Understanding the Herring Run
The herring run typically begins in April and peaks in May, with schools of river herring pushing into rivers and estuaries to spawn. This influx of baitfish attracts large striped bass, making it one of the most exciting times to fish in Massachusetts. Areas like the Cape Cod Canal, Boston Harbor, Plum Island, and the South Shore estuaries become hotspots as stripers follow the herring.
2. Best Gear for Striper Fishing During the Herring Run
Rod & Reel Setup
- Rod: A 7’6” to 9’ medium-heavy spinning rod is ideal for casting big plugs, swimbaits, and live bait. Custom rods, like those from YUK Rod Co., provide the perfect balance of power and sensitivity to handle strong stripers.
- Reel: A 4000-6000 size spinning reel with a smooth drag is essential to handle powerful runs.
- Line: 30-50 lb braided line for strength and casting distance, with a 30-50 lb fluorocarbon leader to withstand sharp gill plates and abrasion.
Lures & Baits
Since herring are larger baitfish, it’s important to match the hatch with appropriately sized lures:
- Swimbaits: 6-9” soft plastic paddle tails (like the Savage Gear Herring or Tsunami Swim Shad) on a 1-2 oz jig head.
- Topwater Plugs: Pencil poppers and spooks like the Gibbs Danny Plug or Yo-Zuri Hydro Pencil for explosive surface action.
- Metal Lures & Jigs: Kastmasters, Deadly Dicks, and other metals for long-distance casting when stripers are feeding deep.
- Live Bait: Live-lining fresh herring (where legal) or chunking fresh-cut herring is one of the most effective ways to land a trophy bass.
3. Where to Find Stripers During the Herring Run
- River Mouths & Estuaries – Striped bass stage at the mouth of the North and South Rivers, taking advantage of the strong currents and abundant herring moving upstream. The Spit, a sandy stretch where these two rivers meet the Atlantic, is a prime feeding ground, especially during incoming and outgoing tides. Stripers often ambush bait along the drop-offs and channels, making it an excellent spot to fish swimbaits, live bait, and topwater plugs. Bridges & Tidal Outflows – Current breaks and structure around places like the Cape Cod Canal and the North River create ambush points for hungry stripers.
- Beaches & Surf Zones – Areas like Crane Beach, Plymouth, and Race Point are excellent spots to fish with swimbaits and plugs.
4. Tactics for Landing Big Stripers
- Fish During the Tides – The best bite usually happens during incoming and outgoing tides, as the current moves herring into ambush zones.
- Use a Slow Retrieve – Stripers often stalk their prey, so a slower, steady retrieve can entice more bites.
- Night Fishing – Big stripers tend to feed more aggressively at night, especially near bridges and estuaries.
5. Conservation & Regulations
- Know the Rules: Massachusetts has strict regulations on keeping striped bass. As of 2024, the slot limit is 28-31 inches. Always check for updates before heading out.
- Catch & Release: When possible, practice responsible catch and release to help preserve the fishery. Releasing breeder fish ensures healthy populations for future generations and supports the sustainability of the striped bass stock. Handle fish with care, minimize out-of-water time, and use circle hooks to improve survival rates.
Final Thoughts
The herring run marks the start of some of the best striped bass fishing of the year in Massachusetts. Whether you’re casting from shore, a kayak, or a boat, having the right gear, tactics, and knowledge will put you in the best position for success. Get your YUK custom rod ready, hit the water, and enjoy the rush of hooking into a springtime striper!
