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Fish Taco Fishing Charter in Portsmouth Portsmouth
Striped Bass Fishing in Portsmouth
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Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) are one of the most prized gamefish along the Atlantic Coast, known for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. They belong to the Moronidae family and can be found in various habitats including rivers, coastal areas, and nearshore waters, making them accessible to anglers fishing from both boats and shore. - Can grow to impressive sizes between 20-55 inches and weigh between 10-81 pounds. - Distinguished by their characteristic horizontal black stripes running along their silvery sides. - Popular target for Portsmouth anglers due to their seasonal abundance and sporting qualities.
Fishing Charter by Captain Sean Tracey in August
Meet your Captain Sean Tracey
- Get Ready For The Striper fishing in NH and Maine
Summary
Experience premier striper fishing with Fish Taco's Portsmouth fishing charter service. Captain Sean Tracey guides anglers through the productive inshore waters of Portsmouth, NH during Thursday June trips. Using live eels and targeted techniques, our local charter specializes in putting clients on trophy-sized striped bass. Our 4-hour trips are perfect for both seasoned anglers and beginners looking to land their first stripers. The Portsmouth Marina area provides excellent access to prime fishing grounds where striped bass congregate during their seasonal migration. Book with Fish Taco Charters for expert guidance, quality gear, and the local knowledge that makes the difference between a regular fishing trip and an exceptional day on the water.
Fishing Charter with Sean Tracey – Rates & Booking
Captain Sean Tracey of Fish Taco on Thursday June took Paul and Bob out for a successful striper fishing adventure. This 4-hour trip starts at $475 for up to 2 guests, with all gear and fishing licenses provided. Booking is simple—just select your preferred date online and secure your reservation with a deposit. The 4-Hour Striper Fishing Trip leaves from Portsmouth Marina, where you'll park in the grass lot across the street. Captain Sean specializes in inshore fishing techniques perfected through years of local experience, ensuring you have the best chance at landing trophy stripers.
Highlights of Charter Fishing Portsmouth | 4HRS Striper and Mackerel Fishing
Paul and Bob experienced immediate success on their outing, landing two 27-inch stripers within minutes of beginning their fishing adventure. Using live eels as bait, Captain Sean's knowledge of the local waters put them directly on the fish. The charter takes place in Portsmouth's productive inshore waters, where striped bass are abundant during the summer months.
The Fish Taco team prides themselves on their intimate knowledge of these waters, making them experts at locating striped bass regardless of conditions. Even on a foggy morning, their local expertise shines through, providing clients with an authentic New Hampshire fishing experience that combines technical skill with the thrill of the catch.
Local Species Insights: Striped Bass
Striped bass in Portsmouth waters offer exciting inshore fishing opportunities throughout the summer season. These powerful fish are known for their distinctive horizontal stripes and strong fighting ability when hooked. Captain Sean targets these fish in the river, flats, and nearshore waters using various techniques including live eels, which have proven extremely effective as demonstrated by Paul and Bob's quick success.
The waters around Portsmouth provide ideal habitat for stripers as they migrate along the coast, with the combination of river mouths, structure, and baitfish creating perfect feeding grounds. Early morning trips are particularly productive, especially when targeting these fish during rising or falling tides when they actively feed. For anglers looking to maximize their chances of landing a quality striped bass, Fish Taco's local knowledge makes all the difference.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your 4-hour striper fishing charter with Captain Sean includes a well-maintained boat equipped with quality rods, reels, tackle, and live bait. The vessel comfortably accommodates up to 2 guests, ensuring a personalized fishing experience. Most trips begin early in the morning to take advantage of prime feeding times, with a typical start time of 7:00 AM. We recommend wearing layers, bringing sun protection, and packing any preferred snacks or drinks. Captain Sean provides all necessary fishing gear and extensive knowledge of the local waters, ensuring both experienced anglers and newcomers will have an enjoyable and productive day on the water.
Fishing in Portsmouth: Striped Bass
The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis), a member of the Moronidae family in the order Perciformes, is one of New England's most sought-after gamefish. Distinguished by their seven to eight dark horizontal stripes running along a silvery body, these powerful fish have been delighting anglers in Portsmouth waters for generations. In June, Portsmouth's tidal waters become prime hunting grounds for these prized fish as they follow baitfish during their seasonal migrations.
Striped Bass Overview
Striped Bass are anadromous fish that split their time between freshwater and saltwater environments. Highly valued by recreational anglers for their fighting ability and table quality, they represent one of the most important sportfish species along the Atlantic coast. Their popularity has led to careful management practices to ensure sustainable populations for future generations.
Striped Bass Habitat and Distribution
These fish are native to the Atlantic coastline from the St. Lawrence River to the St. Johns River in Florida. They thrive in estuaries, rivers, and coastal waters, preferring areas with structure and current. Around Portsmouth, they can be found in the Piscataqua River, Great Bay estuary, and along nearshore coastal areas, especially during their spring and summer migrations.
Striped Bass Size and Weight
Striped Bass typically range from 20 to 55 inches in length, with weights between 10 and 81 pounds. Trophy specimens can exceed these measurements, with the world record approaching 80 pounds. In Portsmouth waters, anglers regularly encounter fish in the 24-36 inch range, with larger specimens possible, especially during peak season.
Striped Bass Diet and Behavior
These opportunistic predators feed on a variety of prey including herring, mackerel, menhaden, sand eels, and crustaceans. They often hunt in schools, corralling baitfish against structure or shorelines. Striped Bass are known for their aggressive feeding habits, especially during dawn and dusk or when tidal movement concentrates prey.
Striped Bass Spawning Season
Stripers spawn in freshwater rivers and tributaries in spring when water temperatures reach approximately 60°F. After spawning, they migrate along the coast, following baitfish schools. In June, Portsmouth sees many post-spawn fish moving through the area, feeding heavily to regain strength.
Striped Bass Fishing Techniques
Multiple techniques prove effective for targeting stripers in Portsmouth. Live bait fishing with eels, mackerel, or herring produces consistent results, especially during early morning or evening hours. Casting artificial lures like swimming plugs, soft plastics, or metal jigs near structure or current seams can trigger aggressive strikes. In June, Portsmouth anglers find success targeting stripers around river mouths, bridge pilings, and rocky shorelines during moving tides.
Striped Bass Is It Good to Eat?
Striped Bass offers excellent table fare with firm, white, flaky meat that has a mild, sweet flavor. It's versatile for cooking methods including grilling, baking, or pan-searing. Health-wise, it provides a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, be aware of local consumption advisories, as some areas have restrictions due to potential contaminants in larger specimens.
Striped Bass Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Striped Bass?
A: Live eels are extremely effective for Portsmouth stripers, as demonstrated by Captain Sean's clients' success. Other productive baits include live mackerel, herring, menhaden (pogies), and soft-shell crabs when in season.
Q: Where can I find Striped Bass near Portsmouth?
A: The Piscataqua River, Great Bay estuary, and nearshore coastal areas are prime locations. Focus on areas with structure, current seams, and baitfish activity. The Portsmouth Marina area provides excellent access to productive fishing grounds.
Q: Is Striped Bass good to eat?
A: Yes, Striped Bass has firm, white flesh with a mild flavor that many consider delicious. It's versatile for various cooking methods and provides excellent nutrition.
Q: When is the best time to catch Striped Bass?
A: In Portsmouth, the prime season runs from May through October, with June and July often being peak months. The best times are usually early morning, evening, or during moving tides when stripers feed most actively.
Q: What size Striped Bass can I keep in New Hampshire?
A: Regulations change periodically, but currently anglers must follow specific slot limits. Check with New Hampshire Fish and Game for the most current regulations before your trip.
Q: What tackle should I use for Striped Bass?
A: Medium to medium-heavy spinning or conventional tackle with 15-30 pound test line works well. For fly fishing, 8-10 weight rods with intermediate or sinking lines are recommended for Portsmouth's tidal waters.
