Habitat: Hybrid striped bass inhabit medium to large rivers and reservoirs in West Virginia. Their temperature tolerance is wide ranging from 39 F to 84 F but prefer 50 F to 75 F. Once stocked in larger rivers, they congregate below locks and dams especially during warmer summer months.
Other: At larger sizes, their bodies become wider than a true striped bass. Correct identification of a hybrid between a striped bass and white bass can be accomplished using scale, spine and other counts, along with checking the tooth patch on their tongue. Actual striped bass and hybrid bass have two patches on their tongue; white bass have only one.
Habitat & Range
Hybrid striped bass inhabit medium to large rivers and reservoirs in West Virginia. Their temperature tolerance is wide ranging from 39 F to 84 F but prefer 50 F to 75 F. Once stocked in larger rivers, they congregate below locks and dams especially during warmer summer months.
Status, Trends & Threats
There are no conservation issues related to hybrid stripped bass. Their numbers are maintained by WVDNR annual stockings.
License & Regulations
A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers age 15 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations. A West Virginia Trout Stamp is required to fish for or possess trout in designated trout waters. Purchase online through the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Habitat
Hybrid striped bass inhabit medium to large rivers and reservoirs in West Virginia. Their temperature tolerance is wide ranging from 39 F to 84 F but prefer 50 F to 75 F. Once stocked in larger rivers, they congregate below locks and dams especially during warmer summer months.
Interesting Facts
Hybrid bass fishing can be fast and furious, and they are tremendously hard-fighting fish. They also have delicious firm, white flaky meat. Sliver or white flashy lures imitating baitfish are a great choice, as are white bucktail jig and minnow tipped jigs. A good hybrid striped bass is 15-20 inches, while a 24-inch catch enables and angler to secure a citation from WVDNR for an exceptional catch.
Regulations
West Virginia fishing regulations apply to Hybrid Striped Bass. A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers 15 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some waters have special regulations including catch-and-release only, artificial lures only, or specific size limits. Check the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Fishing Regulations for current rules specific to your fishing location.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers age 15 and older. Licenses are available for residents, no | Link |
