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"Time and tide wait for no man," and it is absolutely true when fishing for Striped Bass, regardless of tackle choice. Time of day and stage of the tide are critical factors in determining a successful striper strategy. Moving water, structure and the predominant bait should all be considered when targeting stripers, but there is already plenty of information on how to fish for Stripers generally, what you want to know is how to catch them on the fly. The good news is that fly-fishing for stripers can often be more productive than other methods.

Tackle
Generally, a 9-foot, 9-weight fly rod is a good all-around fly rod for stripers and nearly most other inshore species (bluefish, bonito, false albacore, bonefish). A good quality, appropriately sized fly reel that holds at least 250 yards of 20lb backing, spooled with either an intermediate or fast-sinking line is fine. Stripers aren't leader shy, or toothy, so there really isn't a need for a shock tippet, a 15 - 20# test tippet is sufficient. I also highly recommend using a striping basket to manage your fly-line when striper fishing. It will allow you to cast further and alleviates having the fly line wrapping around your feet in the surf.

Flies
Fly selection, like any other fishing technique, should mimic the predominant prey in the area. There are many choices when it comes to fly selection, the good news is that Stripers are not usually too picky. A good fly to begin your search is a chartreuse and white "Lefty's Deceiver." Depending on location and time of year other flies may work better, but I tie my own "Lefty's" and it is my "go to" fly. Generally, any pattern that mimics small baitfish or sand eels is productive.

Location, Location, Location
Like all striper fishing, location is critical when fly-fishing for stripers. Typically you can't cast as far with a fly rod as you can with other tackle, so being able to reach the locations where fish hold is a consideration. If you want to tangle with big fish, you need to pick "big fish" locations. Rocky outcroppings, deep holes, ocean beaches, generally will hold bigger fish, depending on time of year, water temperature, depth and water flow, but these each present different challenges to the fly caster. There are big fish in other locations, but to consistently target larger fish you need to go where the big girls hang out.

Let's catch fish!
Generally, you should cast up-current and allow the fly to sink and drift back to where you think the fish are holding. The

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