Fishing the Hudson: Stripers, Tautog, and Ideal Conditions for a Successful Day on the Water

As of November 3, 2024, the Hudson River around New York City is offering some promising fishing conditions. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water. ### Tidal and Weather Conditions Today, the sunrise is at 6:24 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:48 PM. The tidal cycle shows a high tide at 8:47 AM and a low tide at 3:04 PM, with moderate tidal movements expected throughout the day. Weather-wise, we're looking at partly cloudy skies with a high of around 58°F and a gentle breeze out of the northwest. ### Fish Activity Yesterday saw a decent amount of activity, particularly for striped bass. These fish are still present in the Hudson River and its tributaries, with reports of school-size bass being caught in the back bays. The striped bass fishing season remains open until November 30, but remember that only fish between 23 and 28 inches can be kept, with a one fish bag limit. Blackfish (tautog) are also active, especially in areas with structure like rocks and reefs. This has been one of the best tautog seasons in many years, with fish scattered all over the Sound. ### Best Lures and Bait For striped bass, using slender-profiled lures that mimic sand eels has been highly effective. These lures work well both during daylight and after-dark fishing. For blackfish, jigs and rigs tipped with crabs or clams are the way to go. ### Hot Spots Some hot spots to consider include the areas around the George Washington Bridge, where the structure and currents tend to concentrate fish. Another good spot is the lower Hudson River, particularly around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, where the mix of currents and bottom structure attracts a variety of species. Overall, it's a great time to get out on the Hudson River, with favorable weather conditions and a good chance of catching some quality fish. Just make sure to check the local regulations and be mindful of the catch limits. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.