Great Bay Striped Bass Spots

Trying to pin down where the striped bass are hiding in New Hampshire's vast Great Bay estuary can feel like a game of hide-and-seek, especially with its complex tides and numerous nooks and crannies. It's frustrating when you spend precious fishing time wondering if you're even in the right zip code. This comprehensive guide is designed to cut through that guesswork, giving you the insider scoop on the most productive spots, the best times to fish them, and the techniques that will put more Great Bay stripers on your line.

Understanding Great Bay's Unique Striped Bass Fishery

Great Bay isn't just any body of water; it's a dynamic, tidal estuary where freshwater rivers meet the mighty Atlantic, creating a rich, nutrient-dense environment that absolutely teems with life. This unique mix makes it a prime feeding ground for striped bass, drawing them in from the open ocean for a seasonal feast. Understanding this intricate ecosystem is the first step to consistently finding those elusive stripers.

The Estuarine Environment and Its Appeal to Stripers

The estuarine environment of Great Bay is a true biological melting pot. Here, the varying salinity levels, from near-freshwater inputs of rivers like the Lamprey and Squamscott to the saltier water pushing in from the Piscataqua River, create a distinct habitat. Striped bass, being anadromous (or in this case, euryhaline), thrive in these fluctuating conditions, moving freely between different salinity zones to feed or seek comfort. The shallow, productive flats and marsh edges warm up faster in the spring, signaling a bounty of food as smaller baitfish and crustaceans become active. The numerous mudflats expose rich forage at low tide, drawing in hungry birds and, more importantly for us anglers, attracting stripers as the tide begins to flood back in, bringing the buffet to them.

These areas are essentially nurseries for many of the smaller species that stripers prey upon, offering a sheltered, food-rich environment away from the full force of the open ocean. The complex network of channels, flats, and coves provides both ample hunting grounds and plenty of places for stripers to ambush their prey. It's a textbook example of a perfect predatory habitat, which is why Great Bay is so celebrated for its striped bass opportunities.

Striped Bass Migration Patterns and Seasonal Presence

Striped bass are true migrants, undertaking extensive journeys along the East Coast. Their presence in Great Bay is largely seasonal, dictated by water temperature and the availability of their primary food sources. Typically, the first waves of "schoolie" stripers—the smaller, younger fish—begin to show up in the Great Bay estuary in late April to early May, as water temperatures nudge into the upper 40s and low 50s Fahrenheit. These fish are usually eager to feed after their long journey north. As the season progresses into June and July, larger, more mature bass arrive, often following baitfish like mackerel and herring into the bay system.

Peak season for striped bass in Great Bay generally runs from June through September. During these warmer months, the bass are actively feeding and can be found throughout the bay system. By late September and October, as water temperatures begin to drop, the striped bass start their southern migration, gradually making their way out of Great Bay and back into the open ocean. Some stragglers might remain into November if the weather stays mild, but consistent fishing usually tapers off by then. Keeping an eye on local water temperature reports and checking with local bait shops like Suds 'N Soda or Kittery Trading Post can give you a real-time advantage on when the fish are truly in. For a deeper dive into the specific rules for fishing in this dynamic zone, be sure to check out the Great Bay Striped Bass Fishing Rules.

Key Forage Species in Great Bay

What striped bass eat is fundamental to understanding where and how to catch them. Great Bay is rich with a diverse menu of forage species that attract and hold these powerful fish. Early in the season, stripers often key in on smaller baitfish like juvenile herring, river herring (alewives and blueback herring), and emerging crab species that are abundant in the shallow, warmer waters. As the season progresses, larger baitfish become more prevalent.

One of the most significant forage species for Great Bay stripers are river herring, which push into the estuary and its tributaries to spawn. Mackerel, though typically an ocean species, will often move into the mouth of the bay and even further upstream, drawing hungry bass with them. Sand eels are another staple, particularly in the sandier, shallower areas. In addition to finfish, crustaceans like green crabs and shrimp provide a significant food source, especially for larger bass that aren't afraid to root around the bottom. Observing what local birds are feeding on, or even checking the stomach contents of a legal-sized fish you keep, can offer invaluable clues as to what the stripers are currently keying in on.

Prime Fishing Locations within Great Bay

Great Bay is a sprawling system, and knowing where to focus your efforts can make all the difference between a productive day and a frustrating one. The bay offers a variety of habitats, from open water to narrow river mouths, each with its own charm and appeal to striped bass at different times and tides.

The Mouth of the Bay and Immediate Tributaries

The entrance to Great Bay, essentially the stretch from Dover Point to Hilton Park, and the immediate surrounding areas are often hotspots, particularly early and late in the season. This is where the powerful currents of the Piscataqua River meet the more sheltered waters of Little Bay, acting as a natural funnel for migrating striped bass and their prey.

• Little Bay: This smaller bay, located just south of Dover Point, is a fantastic area. Its numerous coves, rocky outcrops, and varying depths provide excellent ambush points. The currents here are still strong enough to concentrate bait but offer more shelter than the main Piscataqua. Look for schooling baitfish near structure or along current seams. Areas around the General Sullivan Bridge are particularly productive.
• Furber Strait: This narrow choke point connecting Little Bay to the broader Great Bay is a classic striper ambush alley. The intense currents rip through here, making it a challenging but rewarding spot to fish. Bass will often stack up on the edges of the channel or behind any structure that breaks the current, waiting for bait to be swept past. This area is best fished from a boat, and extreme caution should be exercised due to the strong tides.
• Piscataqua River Confluence: While technically not in Great Bay, the Piscataqua River leading into it is an integral part of the fishery. The deep channels, rocky shorelines, and strong currents make it prime territory for larger stripers. Spots like Fort Point State Park offer shore access with deep water close by, and fishing around the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard access can be highly productive, though regulations must be strictly followed. You'll find that understanding the New Hampshire Saltwater Fishing License, Explained can save you a headache when navigating this transition zone.

Major River Entrances and Estuaries

The freshwater tributaries feeding into Great Bay are magnets for striped bass, especially during herring runs or periods of heavy rainfall when baitfish are pushed out of the rivers. These areas often provide a unique blend of brackish water fishing.

• Lamprey River: The Lamprey is perhaps the most famous and productive of Great Bay's tributaries for striped bass. The river's winding course, deep holes, and extensive marshlands offer abundant habitat. Access points near Newmarket and the Stratham town landing provide good starting points. The stretch from Newmarket down to the main bay is particularly good. Fishing here often involves casting soft plastics or flies into current seams and around submerged structure.
• Squamscott River: Flowing into the Lamprey, the Squamscott also sees its share of stripers. This is a smaller, often shallower river, making it ideal for kayak or canoe fishing. Its marshy banks and oyster beds hold a lot of bait, and the bass will follow it. Look for areas where feeder creeks enter the main river, as these can create nutrient-rich eddies.
• Oyster River: Further east, the Oyster River near Durham is another reliable striper haunt. The university town offers several public access points, including the docks near the UNH campus. Like the Lamprey, the Oyster River features marshy edges and deeper channels, and it's a known spot for herring runs, which means stripers won't be far behind.
• Bellamy River: This lesser-known river offers some quieter opportunities. It's smaller than the Lamprey or Oyster but still provides good habitat, especially for schoolie stripers. The marshlands around its mouth near Dover are excellent for targeting fish with light tackle.

Deep Channels, Drop-offs, and Structure

Striped bass are structure-oriented fish, and Great Bay has no shortage of it, both natural and man-made. Locating these features, especially in conjunction with current, is key to consistent success.

• Main Channels: The deepest parts of Great Bay, which are essentially extensions of the Piscataqua River's tidal flow, hold stripers, especially larger ones. These channels are often flanked by sudden drop-offs where bass can patrol for passing baitfish. Using a quality fish finder is almost essential here to identify these contours. Trolling deep-diving plugs or live bait can be effective in these areas.
• Rocky Outcrops and Ledges: Throughout the bay, submerged rocks and ledges provide excellent cover and ambush points. Bass will sit in the eddies created by these structures, conserving energy while waiting for prey. These spots are often visible at lower tides or can be found with sonar. Casting jigs, bucktails, or soft plastics around these structures on an incoming or outgoing tide can be very productive.
• Bridges and Pilings: Man-made structures like bridge pilings (e.g., General Sullivan Bridge, I-95 bridge) offer artificial reefs that attract baitfish and, consequently, stripers. The currents around these structures can be intense, so careful boat positioning is required. Vertical jigging or casting tight to the pilings on the current-breaking side often yields results.
• Oyster Beds and Mussel Beds: Great Bay is famous for its oyster and mussel beds, which create complex, rough bottoms that harbor crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. These areas are fantastic feeding grounds, though they can be tough on tackle due to snags. Lightly weighted soft plastics or weedless jigs can be effective here.

When you're exploring these areas, especially the deep channels and specific structures, it can be incredibly helpful to consider hiring a local guide, perhaps found through services like FishingBooker. Their intimate knowledge of Great Bay’s ever-changing contours and tides can save you years of trial and error.

Essential Tides and Current Dynamics for Striped Bass

If you want to consistently catch striped bass in Great Bay, you absolutely must understand the tides. It's not an option; it's the fundamental principle of fishing this estuary. The powerful tidal exchange dictates everything: where baitfish are, where stripers will position themselves, and how they'll feed. Ignoring the tides is like trying to drive a car without steering – you're just along for the ride, and probably not in the right direction.

Decoding Tidal Flows and Their Impact

Great Bay experiences a significant tidal range, often several feet, driven by the Atlantic Ocean pushing water through the narrow Piscataqua River and into the vast bay system. This creates strong currents that ebb and flow, constantly reshaping the environment and influencing fish behavior.

• Incoming Tide (Flood Tide): As the tide rises, cooler, saltier water from the ocean pushes into Great Bay. This flood tide often brings in fresh schools of baitfish and oxygenated water, energizing the stripers. Many anglers find the last half of the incoming tide, leading up to high tide, to be particularly productive. The stripers will often move onto shallower flats and into river mouths with the rising water, ambushing bait that's now accessible.
• High Tide: While some fish can be caught at slack high tide, activity often slows. The currents diminish, and baitfish disperse. However, in certain areas, stripers might hold in deep holes or around structure, waiting for the tide to turn.
• Outgoing Tide (Ebb Tide): As the tide falls, water flows back out of Great Bay and towards the ocean. This ebb tide can be incredibly productive, especially during its initial stages. The falling water pulls baitfish out of the rivers, off the flats, and concentrates them in channels and pinch points. Stripers will often sit at the mouths of rivers or along channel edges, picking off bait as it's swept past.
• Low Tide: Slack low tide can also be slow, similar to high tide. However, the period just after the turn, when the incoming tide first starts to push in, can be excellent as stripers begin to move back into the bay from deeper holding areas. The lowest tides also expose vast mudflats, allowing you to identify structure that might be hidden at higher water levels.

The key takeaway is that stripers are opportunistic feeders that use the currents to their advantage. They prefer to conserve energy, letting the current bring the food to them or creating ambush points where they can dart out to feed.

Best Tidal Stages for Specific Spots

The optimal tidal stage can vary significantly depending on the specific location within Great Bay, which is why local knowledge is so important.

• River Mouths (Lamprey, Oyster, Squamscott): These locations often shine during the outgoing (ebb) tide. As water drains from the rivers and marshes, baitfish are flushed out into the main bay, creating a feeding frenzy opportunity for waiting stripers. The first few hours of the outgoing tide are prime. Conversely, the last hour of the incoming tide can also be good as stripers push far upstream to feed in areas that are only accessible with higher water.
• Furber Strait and Pinch Points: These high-current areas are typically best during the peak of the outgoing or incoming tides when the currents are strongest. Stripers will position themselves strategically behind rocks or in eddies, allowing bait to be swept directly to them. Fishing during slack tide in these areas can be less productive as the bait disperses.
• Shallow Flats and Marsh Edges: These areas fish best on the incoming (flood) tide, particularly the last few hours leading up to high tide. As the water rises, stripers move onto these flats to hunt for crabs, worms, and small baitfish that are now within reach. Topwater lures can be incredibly exciting in these shallow, high-tide scenarios.
• Deep Channels and Drop-offs: These can be productive on both incoming and outgoing tides, especially around the turns. Stripers will patrol the edges, moving up or down the drop-off depending on where the bait is being concentrated by the current. Vertical jigging or trolling are effective methods here.

Always consult a local tide chart for the specific day and location you plan to fish. You can find these easily online or in local bait and tackle shops.

Understanding Current Breaks and Eddies

Current breaks and eddies are nature's fast-food lanes for striped bass. These are areas where the main flow of the current is interrupted by a piece of structure—a rock, a point of land, a bridge piling, or even a subtle change in bottom contour. This interruption creates an area of slower, often swirling water.

• Why they're important: Baitfish, being less powerful swimmers, often get pushed into these slower current zones, or they seek refuge there from the main flow. Striped bass, being efficient predators, know this. They'll position themselves on the downcurrent side of the structure, in the calmer water, waiting for stunned or disoriented baitfish to drift by. This allows them to ambush prey without expending a lot of energy fighting the main current.
• Identifying them: Look for visible rips or swirling water on the surface, especially around points, bridge abutments, or islands. Underwater sonar can also reveal submerged structure that creates these current breaks.
• How to fish them: When fishing a current break, try to cast your lure or bait upcurrent of the structure and allow it to drift naturally into the eddy or current seam. This mimics a natural presentation and puts your offering right in the strike zone of a waiting striper. Adjust your retrieve speed to match the current, making your lure appear to be struggling against the flow. For instance, an area like Adams Point, with its distinct point jutting into the bay, will have noticeable current breaks on both incoming and outgoing tides, making it a prime spot to target.

Techniques and Tackle for Great Bay Striped Bass

Successfully targeting striped bass in Great Bay requires a versatile approach to techniques and tackle. These fish can be finicky, changing their preferences based on bait availability, water conditions, and time of day. Having a well-rounded arsenal and being adaptable are your greatest assets.

Lure Selection and Presentation

Great Bay stripers respond well to a variety of artificial lures, mimicking the diverse forage available.

• Soft Plastics: These are arguably the most versatile and effective lures for Great Bay. Paddle tail swimbaits in sizes from 4 to 7 inches are deadly, especially when rigged on a lead head jig. Colors like white, chartreuse, olive, and natural baitfish patterns are go-to choices. Cast them out, let them sink to the desired depth, and retrieve with a steady swim or a slow jigging motion. They imitate everything from juvenile mackerel to river herring. Hogy Lures and Saltwater Assassin are popular brands.
  • Presentation Tip: In shallower water or around marsh edges, a lighter jig head (1/2 to 3/4 oz) allows for a slower, more natural fall. In deeper channels or stronger currents, you might need 1 oz or more to get down quickly.
• Topwater Plugs: Nothing beats the excitement of a striper blowing up on a topwater lure. Poppers and walk-the-dog style lures are excellent choices, particularly during low light conditions (dawn/dusk) or when bass are actively busting bait on the surface. Sizes from 4 to 6 inches work well.
  • Presentation Tip: For poppers, a "pop-pop-pause" retrieve works wonders. For walk-the-dog lures, a steady rod tip twitch creates that enticing side-to-side sashay.
• Swimming Plugs (Minnow & Diving Plugs): When stripers are a bit deeper or you need to cover more water, diving plugs are invaluable. Daiwa SP Minnows or Bomber Long A lures in silver, blue-and-silver, or bone white are classic choices.
  • Presentation Tip: Cast them out and retrieve steadily, letting the lure's lip do the work of diving. Vary your retrieve speed and add occasional twitches to trigger strikes. They're great for mimicking larger baitfish.
• Jigs and Bucktails: Classic bucktail jigs remain highly effective, especially when tipped with a soft plastic trailer or a piece of pork rind. They can be fished effectively at all depths.
  • Presentation Tip: Cast and retrieve with a jigging motion (lift, drop, reel slack), or simply drag them along the bottom. They are particularly good for imitating crabs or bottom-dwelling baitfish, and for probing deeper holes and channels.

Live Bait Strategies

While artificial lures are incredibly effective, sometimes nothing beats live bait, especially for larger, more discerning stripers.

• Live Mackerel: If you can catch them in the ocean just outside the bay, a live mackerel is pure striper candy. Rigged with a single circle hook through the nose or back, they can be slow-trolled, drifted, or fished under a balloon.
  • Technique: Keep the mackerel lively. Drift it through current seams or over deep structure. This is often a "big fish" technique.
• Live Eels: Eels are another premium bait, particularly for night fishing or targeting large, nocturnal stripers. They're tough, lively, and irresistible to bass.
  • Technique: Rig an eel with a circle hook through its jaw or stomach. Cast it out and let it swim naturally, or slow-troll it. Hold on tight, as the strike can be ferocious!
• Chunk Bait: Freshly cut pieces of bunker (menhaden), mackerel, or herring can be incredibly effective, especially when fished on the bottom in deeper channels or around structure.
  • Technique: Use a fish-finder rig or a simple Carolina rig with a circle hook. Cast it out, let it sink, and wait. The scent trail is what attracts the bass. This is a common method for anglers fishing from shore or anchored boats, allowing them to relax and wait for the bite.

Essential Gear for Great Bay Anglers

Having the right gear ensures you're ready for whatever Great Bay throws at you.

• Rods and Reels: A medium-heavy to heavy spinning rod (7-8 feet) paired with a 4000-5000 series saltwater spinning reel is a great all-around choice. Brands like Penn, Shimano, and Daiwa offer reliable options. This setup provides the backbone needed to cast heavy lures, handle strong currents, and subdue powerful stripers. If you're looking for a good all-rounder, consider a Best Spinning Rods for Smallmouth Bass which can often double for schoolie stripers.
• Line and Leader: Spool your reel with 20-30 lb braided line. Braid offers superior casting distance, sensitivity, and strength for its diameter. Attach a 3-5 foot fluorocarbon leader (20-40 lb test) via an FG knot or a double uni-knot. Fluorocarbon is nearly invisible in water and abrasion-resistant, which is crucial around rocky areas.
• Terminal Tackle: A selection of weighted jig heads (1/2 oz to 2 oz), circle hooks (3/0 to 7/0 for bait), swivels, and snap swivels are essential. Don't forget pliers for hook removal, a good pair of line cutters, and a BogaGrip or similar lip gripper for handling fish safely.
• Safety Gear: Always wear a life jacket, especially when boating in Great Bay's strong currents. A VHF radio, flares, and a sound-producing device are required by law.
• Navigation: A reliable GPS and depth sounder are invaluable for identifying channels, drop-offs, and avoiding shallow hazards, especially for those new to the area. Many modern fish finders, like those from Garmin or Humminbird, combine these features.

When planning your trip, consider checking out available charters on platforms like FishingBooker. A guided trip with a seasoned captain can provide an unparalleled learning experience, helping you pinpoint these spots and refine your techniques first-hand.

Access Points and Boating Considerations

Getting onto the water in Great Bay, or finding a good spot to cast from shore, is relatively straightforward, but it requires knowing the best access points and understanding the local boating rules. The bay system is vast, and navigating its diverse waters can present both opportunities and challenges.

Public Boat Launches and Marinas

For boat anglers, several public launches and marinas provide access to Great Bay and its tributaries. These spots are often busy, especially during peak season, so arrive early!

• Adams Point Wildlife Management Area (Durham): This popular launch offers direct access to the main Great Bay. It's an excellent spot to launch kayaks, canoes, and smaller powerboats. From here, you can quickly reach the mouth of the Oyster River and the vast flats of Great Bay. There's ample parking, but it fills up fast on weekends.
• Dover Point Boat Launch (Dover): Situated near the mouth of Little Bay, this launch provides quick access to the Piscataqua River currents and the rich waters of Little Bay. It’s well-maintained and suitable for a variety of boat sizes. Many anglers target the areas around the General Sullivan Bridge from here.
• Newmarket Town Landing (Newmarket): For those looking to fish the Lamprey River, the Newmarket town landing is a prime spot. It offers excellent access to the river's winding channels and marshy sections, perfect for light tackle and fly fishing. It's more suited for smaller boats, kayaks, and canoes.
• Hilton Park (Dover): Located on the Piscataqua River side, just before the General Sullivan Bridge, Hilton Park offers a concrete ramp for larger boats. It's a busy spot but provides quick access to the strong currents and deeper waters where larger stripers often lurk.
• Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Access (Kittery, ME / Portsmouth, NH): While primarily known for its military functions, public access areas nearby, particularly on the Maine side, offer prime fishing opportunities in the swift currents of the Piscataqua. Always be mindful of restricted zones here.
• Stratham Hill Park (Stratham): While not a direct launch into Great Bay, this park offers access to the Winnicut River, which connects to the Squamscott River and eventually the bay. It's a quieter spot, ideal for paddle craft to explore the upper reaches of the estuary.

Before heading out, remember to check New Hampshire Boat Registration Requirements and ensure all your documents and safety equipment are up to date.

Shore Fishing Opportunities

Not everyone has a boat, and thankfully, Great Bay offers some excellent shore fishing opportunities, particularly for those targeting schoolie stripers or fishing with bait.

• Adams Point Pier (Durham): In addition to its boat launch, Adams Point has a small pier and accessible shoreline. Anglers can cast into the main bay, targeting fish moving along the edges or following bait schools. It's a family-friendly spot that can be very productive on moving tides.
• Fort Point State Park (New Castle): While technically outside Great Bay proper, this park offers shore access to the powerful currents of the Piscataqua River, just before it enters the bay. It's a popular spot for casting lures and soaking bait, with a good chance at larger stripers pushing in from the ocean. This can be one of the Best Shore Fishing Spots in New Hampshire for striped bass.
• General Sullivan Bridge Pedestrian Walkway (Dover/Newington): The pedestrian walkway on the General Sullivan Bridge offers a unique vantage point to cast into the swirling currents of Little Bay. This spot can be incredibly productive, especially around the bridge pilings. Exercise caution with boat traffic and fellow anglers.
• Various River Banks: Many sections of the Lamprey, Oyster, and Squamscott Rivers have accessible banks or small parks where anglers can cast. Research local town parks and conservation areas, as they often have public access points. These areas are fantastic for fly fishing or light tackle.
• Sandy Point Discovery Center (Stratham): This center offers nature trails and limited shore access to the Squamscott River and some marshland. It's a beautiful, quiet spot for those looking for a more serene fishing experience.

When fishing from shore, always be respectful of private property and adhere to all posted regulations. A long casting rod is beneficial to reach productive water.

Navigational Challenges and Safety Tips

Great Bay's beauty comes with certain navigational complexities that all boaters should be aware of.

• Strong Currents: The tidal currents, especially in the Piscataqua River, Furber Strait, and around bridge pilings, can be incredibly powerful. They can quickly push smaller boats around and make maneuvering challenging. Always be aware of the tide schedule and plan your trip accordingly. You might be surprised at how much current a seemingly calm day can generate.
• Shallow Areas and Mudflats: Large sections of Great Bay are very shallow, especially at low tide, exposing extensive mudflats. Always consult a detailed nautical chart (like NOAA charts) and pay close attention to your depth sounder. Running aground in Great Bay can be a common and frustrating experience if you're unfamiliar with the channels.
• Submerged Structure: Beyond the visible rocks, there are many submerged ledges and oyster beds that can pose a hazard to props and lower units. Again, a good depth sounder and careful navigation are key.
• Boat Traffic: Great Bay and the Piscataqua River see heavy boat traffic, particularly during summer weekends. Commercial vessels, recreational boats, and other anglers all share the water. Maintain situational awareness, know the rules of the road, and keep a watchful eye out for other vessels.
• Weather: New Hampshire weather can change rapidly. Always check the forecast before heading out. High winds can quickly make Great Bay choppy and uncomfortable, if not dangerous, especially for smaller boats.
• Life Jackets: As mentioned before, ensure everyone on board has a properly fitting life jacket. For more information, consult the Life Jacket Requirements for New Hampshire Boaters.

Navigating Great Bay effectively requires patience, preparation, and a healthy respect for the water. If you're new to the area, consider starting your exploration during milder conditions and sticking to well-marked channels. Or, as previously suggested, tapping into the expertise of a local charter captain through platforms like FishingBooker can provide an invaluable and safe introduction to this incredible fishery.

Great Bay Striped Bass Spot	Best Tidal Stage	Recommended Technique	Primary Forage	Notes
Lamprey River Mouth	Ebbing (outgoing)	Soft Plastics, Live Bait (eels)	Herring, Crabs, Shrimp	Can hold larger fish, strong currents.
Furber Strait	Peak incoming/outgoing	Heavy Jigs, Live Bait (mackerel)	Mackerel, Herring	Very strong currents, best from boat.
Adams Point Pier	Last 2 hrs incoming	Soft Plastics, Bait (worms/clams)	Juvenile Baitfish, Crabs	Good shore access, family-friendly.
Oyster River Channel	Incoming & early outgoing	Soft Plastics, Fly Fishing	Herring, Sand Eels	Good kayak/canoe access, varied depths.
General Sullivan Bridge	All moving tides	Jigs, Swimming Plugs	Any passing baitfish	Shore/boat access, watch for structure and current.
Piscataqua River Edges	Incoming	Live Bait (mackerel, eels)	Mackerel, Larger Baitfish	Deep water, strong currents, potential for trophy bass.
Shallow Bay Flats	Last 3 hrs incoming	Topwater, Light Soft Plastics	Crabs, Small Baitfish	Exciting topwater action, often schoolies.

Disclaimer

Fishing regulations and conditions can change rapidly. Always consult the latest New Hampshire Fish and Game Department regulations before heading out. This guide is for informational purposes only, and safe boating and fishing practices are the responsibility of the individual angler.