STRIPER

We proudly hold four PA State Records and remain the only guide service on Raystown to hold a record of this species. Our current record bottoms the scales at 53lb 12oz. Known throughout the country as Striped Bass, Rock Fish, or Stripers, Raystown Lake has produced some of the largest in the country and arguably the healthiest per inch anywhere. Stripers are commonly confused with "Hybrids" which are plentiful in other waterways. Hybrids are a subspecies and thrive under similar conditions. Adult Hybrids reach approximately 18lbs. Stripers have seven distinct lateral lines and are streamlined. Hybrids have approximately ten broken lateral lines and resemble over grown pan fish. The smaller head often does not match the skillet like body. Stripers are originally a saltwater species and like salmon will thrive in both salt and fresh water. Stripers were introduced to Raystown Lake after it's filling in the early 70's. Raystown was one of the earliest lakes to receive stripes from hatcheries established in the 1960's. Original reports claimed Stripers would be the big game of choice for inland fresh water fisherman. Early biologist claimed these fish may reach 20-25lbs in Raystown Lake. With the abundance of forage, we will see a 60 pounder soon. Stripers are stocked annually and proven to spawn without measured success to support a self controlled population. Knowing this, we work hard to sustain the population and only take from the waters what can be bragged upon with friends and co-workers. In our boat we are in constant pursuit of record size fish.

Since stripers have been introduced in Raystown, we have caught records in Spring, Summer, and Fall. We have caught exceptional fish in August and October. To answer the usual question "When is the best time?" remember, Stripers here are landlocked and they got to eat to survive. One month is nearly as good as the other if you can adapt to the day to day and the seasonal patterns. Knowledge of the moon phases and thermocline all contribute to our success. We have caught record fish on both live bait and artificial lures. As the originals, we have established many of the patterns used by fisherman today. We taught ourselves in the early years and as a guide we are willing to expose a few secrets to assure your success.

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