Q.Spawn Timing & Fishing
When do striped bass spawn in the Chesapeake?
A.
Striped bass spawn in the Chesapeake Bay's tributary rivers (Susquehanna, Potomac, Choptank, Rappahannock, James) in April-May when water hits 50-58°F. The Susquehanna and Potomac are the largest spawning rivers, contributing the bulk of Chesapeake-origin stripers along the entire Atlantic coast.
Many areas restrict or close fishing during striper spawn to protect the run. Spawn calendar pages cover timing; regulations pages cover seasonal closures.