Best Lures for Striped Bass Canada

Species Guide — Atlantic Canada

Best Lures for Striped Bass in Canada

From tidal rivers in New Brunswick to coastal beaches in Nova Scotia and PEI, striped bass fishing in Atlantic Canada is driven by current, bait, and presentation. Part of our Canada Fishing Hub.

Hi-Lo Rigs

The single most reliable striped bass setup in Atlantic Canada. See our full guide: How to Fish the Crab Free Rig.

SETUP

Crab-Resistant Hi-Lo Rig

Floating and glow beads help keep bait above the bottom — ideal in crab-heavy areas where standard bait rigs get picked apart quickly.

HOOK SIZE

6/0 – 8/0 — Shore & Wharf Fishing

These hook sizes are ideal for Atlantic striped bass. Large enough to hold cut bait securely and strong enough for powerful runs in current.

WHY IT WORKS

Best All-Around Striped Bass Setup

A hi-lo rig presents multiple baits cleanly in current, covers more of the water column, and works in a wide range of Atlantic conditions.

Best Bait

Natural bait is still one of the most effective striped bass producers in Atlantic Canada. Also see: How to Fish with a Casting Egg.

Mackerel

The go-to bait for many Atlantic striped bass anglers. Oily, durable, and highly attractive in tidal current.

Herring / Gaspereau

Excellent natural forage match in many rivers and estuaries.

Worms

Useful early in the season or when bass are less aggressive.

Trolling Spoons

Hammered Trolling Spoons

Excellent for covering water from a boat when bass are spread out.

Smelt & Baitfish Profiles

Spoons that mimic smelt, gaspereau, or herring work especially well when striped bass are chasing bait schools.

When to Use Them

Best from a boat when you need to search larger areas or locate feeding fish quickly.

Best Setup Comparison

Hi-Lo Rig + Bait

✔ Most consistent results
✔ Best for shore & wharf fishing
✔ Works in tidal current
→ #1 method in Atlantic Canada

Trolling Spoons

✔ Covers large areas
✔ Best from boat
✔ Works when fish are active

Best Lures by Region

New Brunswick →

Top setup: Hi-lo rig with mackerel or herring. Also see: Striped Bass NB Guide and Best Lures for Striped Bass in New Brunswick.

Nova Scotia →

Top setup: Hi-lo rig with heavier weight for stronger tides.

Prince Edward Island →

Top setup: Hi-lo rig with natural bait from beaches and shore access points.

Recommended Setup

Rod
Medium–Heavy 8–10' Surf or Shore Rod
Reel
4000–6000 Series
Mainline
20–30 lb Braid
Leader
40–60 lb Mono or Fluorocarbon
Hook Size
6/0 – 8/0

When to Use Each Setup

  • Fishing from shore or wharf? → Use hi-lo rig + bait
  • Fishing tidal current? → Use hi-lo rig for best control
  • Fishing from a boat? → Use trolling spoons to cover water
  • Not sure what to use? → Start with hi-lo rig, the most consistent method

Most Effective Setup in NB, NS & PEI

Striped Bass Starter Kit

StickyLures hi-lo rigs are built for Atlantic striped bass conditions — ready to fish straight out of the package. Learn how to use this setup for striped bass in New Brunswick →

Get the Setup →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best rig for striped bass in Canada?

A hi-lo rig is the most reliable all-around striped bass setup in Atlantic Canada. It presents bait cleanly in current and works well from shore and wharfs.

What bait works best for striped bass?

Mackerel and herring are the top producers for striped bass in NB, NS, and PEI. Worms can also work, especially early season.

Do trolling spoons work for striped bass?

Yes — trolling spoons are effective when fishing from a boat and covering larger areas. They work best when bass are active and following bait schools.

What hook size should I use for striped bass?

Hook sizes 6/0 to 8/0 are ideal for most striped bass bait rigs in Atlantic Canada.

When is the best time to fish for striped bass?

Incoming tide and low-light periods are usually the best times. Focus on current seams, shore structure, and areas where bait is moving.