Expert Guided Striped Bass Fishing on Chesapeake Bay
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Sixhour striped bass fishing adventure on Chesapeake BayAll equipment and fishing licenses included in trip costWinter season offers prime fishing conditions through December
When the crowds disappear and the weather turns crisp, that's when the real fishing begins on the Chesapeake Bay. Our 6-hour winter striped bass trips run from November 1st through December 10th, targeting some of the most aggressive rockfish you'll find all year. Maryland's mild winter conditions create perfect opportunities to land quality stripers while enjoying the peaceful beauty of the Bay without the summer boat traffic. We handle all the gear and licensing - you just bring your appetite for some serious fishing action aboard The Marylander.
This isn't your typical summer fishing trip, and that's exactly what makes it special. November and early December fishing on the Chesapeake means cooler air, cleaner water, and hungry stripers that are actively feeding before winter sets in. We launch early to maximize your time on productive waters, focusing on structure and drop-offs where these bass concentrate during the colder months. The Bay takes on a completely different character this time of year - fewer recreational boats, calmer conditions, and fish that are more predictable in their feeding patterns. Since daylight hours are shorter due to daylight savings time, we run one trip per day, which means you get our complete attention and the best fishing windows. Pack some snacks and drinks to keep comfortable during the longer periods between bites, and dress in layers since Bay temperatures can shift throughout the day.
Winter striped bass fishing requires a different approach than the fast-paced summer action. We focus on slower presentations using live bait, fresh cut bait, and select lures that match the fish's reduced metabolism during cooler water temperatures. Trolling becomes highly effective this time of year, covering water efficiently while targeting schools moving through deeper channels and along structure breaks. We'll work areas from 15 to 40 feet deep, using downriggers and planer boards to present baits at precise depths where the fish are holding. Bottom fishing with fresh spot, white perch, or bloodworms produces consistent results, especially around oyster bars and channel edges where baitfish concentrate. The tackle setup includes medium to heavy spinning and conventional gear capable of handling the larger fish that are common during this season. Circle hooks are standard for live bait fishing, reducing deep hooking and improving release survival. We also employ light jigging techniques when fish are located on the fish finder but showing reluctance to commit to larger presentations.
Striped bass are the undisputed kings of Chesapeake Bay fishing, and winter brings out some of their best qualities as sport fish. During November and early December, these rockfish range from schoolie-sized fish around 18-20 inches up to true trophy specimens exceeding 30 inches and 15 pounds. The cooler water temperatures trigger feeding behavior as fish prepare for their winter patterns, making them more aggressive and willing to chase down properly presented baits. What makes winter stripers so appealing is their fighting ability in the cooler water - they stay strong throughout the battle and don't tire as quickly as they do during hot summer months. These fish are incredibly intelligent predators that have adapted perfectly to the Bay's seasonal changes, following baitfish migrations and concentrating around areas with consistent food sources. The average fish during this period tends to be larger and healthier than summer catches, with better weight-to-length ratios and more vibrant coloration. Stripers also tend to school more tightly during winter months, meaning when you find one quality fish, there are usually others nearby. Their seasonal behavior patterns make them more predictable, often feeding during specific tide changes and times of day that experienced guides like us have learned to capitalize on year after year.
Winter fishing on the Chesapeake Bay offers something you simply can't get during peak season - quality time on the water with fish that are genuinely excited to bite. Our top-rated 6-hour trips provide the perfect balance of comfort and fishing time, giving you plenty of opportunities to connect with some of Maryland's best striped bass while avoiding the rushed feeling of shorter trips. With only six anglers maximum per trip and complete gear and licensing included, you can focus entirely on the fishing experience. The limited season from November 1st to December 10th makes these trips a customer favorite among serious anglers who understand that the best fishing often happens when conditions seem less than perfect. Don't let another winter pass without experiencing what many consider the Bay's best-kept secret - book your spot aboard The Marylander and discover why winter striped bass fishing has become our most requested cold-weather adventure.
Easton