Fishing Report for the Hudson River, New York City
April 12, 2025
Good morning anglers! The Hudson River is bustling with action as striped bass season is well underway and warming temperatures are stirring up fish activity. Let’s dive into today’s report.
**Weather and Tides**
Today, expect sunny skies with temperatures in the mid-50s—perfect spring weather for a day on the water. Sunrise was at 6:17 AM, and sunset will be at 7:32 PM. The tidal schedule shows high tide peaking mid-morning, and low tide set for the afternoon—ideal conditions for targeting stripers, as active water movement attracts their prey.
**Fish Activity and Recent Catches**
Striped bass are the main target this time of year. Recent catches have included school-sized stripers in the 20-inch to 35-inch range, with a few larger females making appearances. Fish are feeding actively on herring and shad. Reports from areas south of the George Washington Bridge and up through Poughkeepsie have been promising, with plenty of hookups using live bait and artificial lures. Water temperatures remain in the low 40s, so slower presentations are key.
**Best Bait and Lures**
The optimal baits include live or chunked herring and shad, which mimic the stripers’ natural prey. Soft plastic stickbaits like the Lunker City Slug-Go or Tsunami Swim Shad in white or silver colors are highly effective for imitating herring. Swim shads, paddletails, and SP Minnows in chrome or chicken scratch patterns have also been producing results. Bloodworms continue to be a reliable option for anglers fishing from shore.
**Hot Spots**
Two highly recommended locations for striped bass today are:
1. **Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park in Beacon**: This area offers access to deeper channels with active currents and is known for its productive striper fishing.
2. **Esopus Flats, near Kingston**: A prime breeding ground for larger stripers, this spot is ideal for catching pre-spawn bass.
For largemouth bass enthusiasts, structures near the Tappan Zee Bridge or Wappingers Creek provide excellent opportunities.
**Tips for Success**
- Fish during early morning or late afternoon when stripers are most active.
- Target the outgoing tide near creek mouths or shallow flats where baitfish congregate.
- Use light tackle with a 15-20 lb fluorocarbon leader, as the water is relatively clear.
Get out there and make the most of this beautiful spring day! Tight lines!