Striped Bass Fishing New-Brunswick
Species Guide — Atlantic Canada
Striped Bass Fishing New Brunswick
Striped bass fishing in New Brunswick has transformed over the past two decades. The Miramichi, the Petitcodiac, the Shediac area, and the upper Bay of Fundy all hold strong striper populations — and much of the best fishing is accessible from shore. Part of our Fishing New Brunswick guide and Atlantic Canada Fishing Guide.
Best Striped Bass Spots in New Brunswick
The most famous striper destination in NB. The tidal section from Chatham to the estuary holds fish throughout the season. Multiple public access points for shore fishing.
Shaped by the Bay of Fundy's extreme tidal range. The tidal bore creates dynamic conditions that concentrate stripers. Bore Park in downtown Moncton is a popular spot.
Fish move along the coastline and into bays in summer. Shore fishing from beaches, rocky points, and wharves can be productive at dawn and dusk.
A productive striper river that receives less pressure than the Miramichi. Good shore access from the town of Richibucto and surrounding areas.
Extreme tidal range creates powerful currents that concentrate fish. Always know the tide schedule and your exit route before fishing the Fundy shore.
Tidal Timing: The Most Important Factor
Fish the tides, not the clock. Striped bass in New Brunswick feed on tidal movement.
Fish push into rivers chasing bait. Often the most explosive feeding window, especially in spring.
Fish stack up in current seams and feed heavily before the tide turns.
Fish hold in channel edges and current breaks as water begins to drop.
Generally the slowest period. Use this time to move spots or take a break.
Rigs & Presentations
Crab Free Rig (Shore Fishing with Bait)
The go-to setup for shore fishing in New Brunswick. Best bait: cut mackerel, sand eels, bloodworms, clam strips.
Full Crab Free Rig Guide →Casting Spoons & Metal Jigs
When stripers are actively feeding, spoons and metal jigs produce explosive strikes. Best colours: white, silver, chartreuse, orange.
Casting Spoon Guide →Casting Egg Float Rig
A versatile setup for presenting lightweight bait, lures, or flies from shore or boat. Excellent for tidal rivers and estuaries.
Casting Egg Guide →Soft Plastic Swimbaits
Paddle tail swimbaits on 1/4–1/2 oz jig heads in white, chartreuse, or natural baitfish colours.
Surface Lures
During low-light feeding frenzies at dawn and dusk, stripers will crash bait on the surface. Poppers, walk-the-dog lures, and surface swimmers all produce explosive action.
Recommended Setup
Ready to Fish NB Stripers?
Shop Striper Tackle
StickyLures pre-tied hi-lo rigs and casting spoons are built with the right hook sizes and rig strength for Maritime striped bass — ready to fish straight out of the package.
Browse StickyLures Tackle →Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to fish for striped bass in New Brunswick?
The Miramichi River estuary, the Petitcodiac River near Moncton, and the Richibucto River are consistently the most productive shore fishing destinations. Fish the incoming tide at any of these locations for best results.
What is the best rig for striped bass in New Brunswick?
A Crab Free Rig with cut mackerel or bloodworms is the most reliable setup for shore fishing. A casting egg is excellent for presenting lighter baits and lures.
When is striper season in New Brunswick?
Striped bass are most accessible from May through October. The spring run (May–June) brings the most fish into tidal rivers.
Do I need a licence to fish for striped bass in New Brunswick?
Yes. A valid New Brunswick fishing licence is required. Striped bass are subject to DFO regulations including slot limits and seasonal closures.
Can I fish for striped bass from shore without a boat?
Absolutely — shore fishing is one of the strengths of NB striper fishing. The Miramichi, Petitcodiac, and Richibucto rivers all have excellent public shore access.