As of December 8, 2024, the fishing scene in the Hudson River and surrounding areas is quite active, despite the cold weather.
### Tidal and Weather Conditions
The tides for the Hantsport area, though not directly on the Hudson, give us a general idea of tidal movements. Today, expect low tide around 9:00 AM and high tide around 3:00 PM, with water levels fluctuating accordingly[2]. The weather is chilly, with temperatures in the mid-40s to low 50s, and there's a chance of light rain.
### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise was at around 6:55 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:25 PM.
### Fish Activity
In the Hudson River, particularly around New York City and the lower sections, striped bass (stripers) are still active, especially in the rivers and salt ponds. Holdover stripers are feeding well in these areas[1].
### Types and Amounts of Fish
Yesterday saw a decent catch of striped bass, with some fish up to 40 inches caught around Wappingers Creek and other spots near the river. Largemouth bass are also present, particularly in the freshwater areas of the river, such as near the Tappan Zee Bridge and Croton Point Park[4][5].
### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, using chunk bait, blood worms, or jigging with metal lures can be effective. For largemouth bass, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, or live bait like minnows or shad are recommended[4][5].
### Hot Spots
- **Tappan Zee Bridge**: This area provides plenty of structure and cover for bass, and you can fish from the shore, boat, or the bridge itself.
- **Wappingers Creek**: Known for its striped bass activity, especially during this time of year.
- **Croton Point Park**: Offers a boat ramp, pier, and beach, making it a versatile spot for both bass and stripers.
Overall, the Hudson River continues to offer good fishing opportunities despite the cold weather, with striped bass and largemouth bass being the main targets. Be sure to check local regulations and respect any catch-and-release guidelines.