Newburgh's Best Hudson River Fishing | Finhooker

Reel in Trophy Stripers on the Hudson

Ready for an epic day chasing monster striped bass on the legendary Hudson River? Captain Mike's got you covered with this full-day charter out of Newburgh. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, you'll have a blast targeting one of the Northeast's most prized gamefish. With all the gear provided and expert guidance throughout, all you need is your fishing license and a good attitude. Get ready to make some serious memories on the water!

What to Expect on the Water

This eight-hour trip kicks off bright and early from the docks in Newburgh. Captain Mike knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you right on the hotspots where big stripers love to hang out. You'll cruise through some of the most scenic stretches of the Hudson Valley, keeping an eye out for bald eagles and ospreys as you go.

The boat's equipped with top-notch rods, reels, and tackle, so you can focus on the fishing instead of fussing with gear. Whether you prefer to cast lures or soak bait, Captain Mike will show you the techniques that are working best that day. And when a hefty striper hits, hold on tight – these fish know how to put up a fight!

Techniques & Terrain

Fishing for Hudson River stripers is all about adapting to conditions. Some days you might be drifting live herring along deep channel edges, while others you could be casting topwater plugs in the shallows. Captain Mike's always got a few tricks up his sleeve, from trolling with umbrella rigs to jigging soft plastics near structure.

The terrain here is diverse, with everything from rocky shorelines and sandy flats to deep holes and submerged bridges. You might find yourself fishing the mouth of a tributary one hour, then working a current seam in the main channel the next. It's this variety that makes the Hudson such an exciting fishery – you never know where that next big bass might be lurking.

Top Catches This Season

While every trip is different, anglers on recent charters have been absolutely crushing it. Several 30+ pound stripers have come over the rails, with quite a few in the 40-inch class. Even on slower days, it's common to boat a good number of schoolie-sized bass in the 24-28 inch range. The action can be fast and furious when you hit a big school, so be ready for some serious rod-bending fun!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Striped Bass: The star of the show on the Hudson, these powerful fish can grow to over 50 pounds in these waters. Stripers are known for their hard-fighting ability and delicious white flesh. They typically start running up the river in spring, with peak fishing often happening in May and June. Fall can also offer excellent action as the fish fatten up before heading back to the ocean.

Stripers are ambush predators, often hanging around structure or current breaks waiting to pounce on baitfish. They'll eagerly attack a wide variety of lures and baits, from soft plastics and topwater plugs to live herring and chunked bunker. When you hook into a big one, be prepared for screaming runs and acrobatic jumps – these fish don't go down without a fight!

While striped bass are the main target, you might also encounter other species like American shad, smallmouth bass, or even the occasional blue catfish. Each of these can add some variety to your day and offer their own unique fishing challenges.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the Hudson that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of battling a trophy striper in the shadow of the Catskills. Or perhaps it's the rich history of these waters, where generations of anglers have cast their lines. Whatever the draw, a day out here with Captain Mike is sure to create lasting memories.

One of the best parts of this charter is how accessible it is for anglers of all skill levels. Beginners will appreciate Captain Mike's patient instruction and willingness to explain everything from knot tying to fish-fighting techniques. More experienced anglers can geek out over the latest tackle trends and picking up new tips for targeting big bass.

And let's not forget the scenery – the Hudson Valley is drop-dead gorgeous, especially during the fall when the leaves are changing. You might spot bald eagles soaring overhead, great blue herons stalking the shoreline, or even the occasional harbor seal popping up to say hello. It's not just a fishing trip, it's a full-on nature experience.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some hard-fighting Hudson River stripers, now's the time to lock in your date. Captain Mike's calendar fills up fast, especially during peak seasons. This full-day charter is perfect for a group of buddies, a family outing, or even a solo angler looking to hone their skills.

Remember, all the gear is provided, so you don't need to worry about lugging a bunch of equipment around. Just make sure you've got your New York fishing license (available online or at local bait shops), and maybe pack a lunch and some drinks to keep you fueled up for a full day of fishing action.

So what are you waiting for? Book your Hudson River striper charter today and get ready for an unforgettable day on one of the Northeast's premier fisheries. Whether you're chasing that personal best or just want to enjoy a relaxing day on the water, Captain Mike will make sure you have a blast. Tight lines and see you on the river!