Hudson River Striper Showdown: Full Moon Madness and Topwater Tussles

HUDSON RIVER FISHING REPORT - May 9, 2025 By Artificial Lure, Local Angling Expert Good morning, fellow anglers! Today's looking prime for hitting the water around the Hudson. The stripers are making their big spring push, and it's time to get in on the action. The striper migration is in full swing right now. Reports from earlier this week confirm that some isolated pods are already spawning in the Hudson, but even better news - there are plenty of fish still in the Raritan that should be running up our way over the next week or two[4]. We're seeing a real mix of sizes, from schoolies with sea lice on them to some monsters. Just a few days ago, anglers were landing 37 and 40-inch fish not far from here[4]. The most aggressive bite seems to be happening around lake points and bluffs. What I'm hearing from guides is that these fish aren't holding to one area for very long - they'll be along the bluffs one day and on creek flats the next. If you're not marking them, move on and circle back later, especially when the wind picks up[1]. With the full moon coming up on Monday and warmer weather returning, we should see an explosion of topwater action[1]. This time of year, caddis hatches are strong, and fish are definitely keyed in on them. For those who prefer nymphing, try a two-fly rig with a Girdle Bug paired with a caddis dropper, or run a single San Juan Worm depending on conditions. Hot flies right now include caddis patterns, San Juan Worms, and egg patterns[2]. For the streamer crowd, now's your time! The bite has been excellent - try throwing some Flatliners, Dungeons, or Double Deceivers along the banks, especially on overcast days[2]. Other species in the mix include crappie, bream, and catfish. Crappie are hitting minnows and jigs, with chartreuse working well in dingy water. Catfish will bite just about anything, but hot dogs and minnows are your best bet[2]. Local hotspots to try today: Check out the stretch between Cow Shoals downriver where the caddis hatch is strongest. Also worth investigating are the center channel deeper lanes where bigger fish are holding in 9-13 feet of water[2]. Remember, these stripers are on the move - one minute they're there, the next they're gone. That's fishing in the Hudson for ya! Yesterday, someone landed a 37-pounder nearby, and all fish were released to fight another day[1]. Get out there early, and don't forget your camera - you might just hook into the catch of the season. Tight lines and see you on the water! This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.