How to Catch Striped Bass in San Francisco Bay

How to Catch Striped Bass in San Francisco Bay (Tips from a Captain!)

San Francisco Bay is one of the best places in California to target striped bass, a prized game fish known for its hard fight and great taste. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, these expert tips from Captain James Powers of NorCal Traditions Sportfishing will help you reel in more stripers on your next trip.

Best Time to Catch Striped Bass in San Francisco Bay

Striped bass are active year-round, but the prime seasons are spring and fall when water temperatures are ideal, and baitfish are abundant. April through June and September through November are peak months, offering excellent fishing opportunities.

Where to Find Striped Bass

Stripers move throughout the bay, but some of the top hotspots include:

• San Pablo Bay – Excellent in the fall and spring.
• Alameda Rock Wall – A favorite for shore and boat anglers.
• South Bay Flats – Shallow waters where stripers hunt for baitfish.
• Golden Gate Bridge Area – Strong currents attract larger fish.
• Suisun Bay & Carquinez Strait – Known for big fish runs in early spring.

Best Techniques for Catching Striped Bass

1. Live Bait Fishing – One of the most effective methods. Use anchovies, sardines, or shiners rigged on a circle hook for a natural presentation. Drifting live bait near drop-offs or structures increases your chances.
2. Trolling – Slow-trolling with deep-diving plugs like Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnows or Rapala X-Raps works well in deeper channels.
3. Jigging – Using swimbaits, bucktail jigs, or metal spoons can be effective, especially around structure and schools of baitfish.
4. Casting Lures – Striped bass aggressively strike topwater lures like Pencil Poppers and SP Minnows, especially at dawn and dusk.

Best Tackle & Gear for Striped Bass

• Rod & Reel – A medium to medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting setup with a fast-action tip is ideal.
• Line – Use 15-30 lb braided line with a 20-40 lb fluorocarbon leader for strength and invisibility.
• Hooks & Rigs – Circle hooks (size 2/0 to 6/0) are best for live bait. Three-way rigs or Carolina rigs help keep bait near the bottom.

Regulations & Conservation

• The daily limit for striped bass is two fish per angler, with a minimum size of 18 inches.
• Always check California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations before fishing.
• Practice catch-and-release for oversized or spawning fish to help sustain the fishery.

Book a Guided Striped Bass Trip with Captain James Powers

Want to maximize your success? Join Captain James Powers and NorCal Traditions Sportfishing for a guided San Francisco Bay striped bass fishing trip. We provide all the gear, expert guidance, and access to the best fishing spots to ensure you have an incredible experience. Book your trip today and reel in your next trophy striped bass!