As water temperatures climb in late April, massive schools of striped bass push into the Miramichi River ahead of their annual spawn. It's fast, aggressive, and unforgettable - the best spring striper fishing in Atlantic Canada.
Spring is when the Miramichi comes alive. Striped bass migrate upriver from the Gulf of St. Lawrence, congregating in predictable staging areas as they prepare to spawn. Water temperatures between 10–18°C trigger aggressive feeding behavior.
These aren't scattered, hard-to-find fish. The spring run concentrates stripers into tight schools, often visible from the surface. They chase bait aggressively and strike topwater lures with explosive force - it's some of the most exciting striper fishing anywhere.
Whether you're a first-time angler or a seasoned bass hunter, the spring run offers consistent action, big numbers, and the genuine thrill of fishing a run that's been happening on this river for thousands of years.
First waves of stripers enter the river as water temperatures reach 10°C. Fish are hungry after winter and feed aggressively. Early-season trips often produce the most eager biters in less pressured water.
The main body of fish arrives and schooling activity peaks. Fish stack up in holding areas and tidal pinch points. This is the heart of the spring season - high numbers, explosive surface action, and fish everywhere.
Spawning activity begins. Fish are still catchable but behavior shifts. Post-spawn bass begin feeding hard again before dispersing. A quieter time on the water with fewer boats and still-strong fishing.
Spring stripers are wired to strike on the surface. Poppers, pencil plugs, and walk-the-dog lures create commotion that triggers reaction strikes. There's nothing like a 30-inch striper exploding on a surface lure in the morning light.
Paddle tail swimbaits on jig heads are the workhorse of spring fishing. They can be worked at any depth and retrieve speed, making them versatile when fish are at different levels in the water column.
The Miramichi is tidal and fish movement is dictated by it. Ernie plans every outing around the tide chart, positioning you where fish are funneled by moving water into concentrated feeding zones.
Spring schooling behavior means you can often see fish - rolling, surfacing, and chasing bait. Ernie reads the water and puts you within casting range of active fish for an exciting, visual style of fishing.
The spring run fills up fast. Get in touch with Ernie to lock in your dates for April through June.
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