Q.Saltwater Species Behavior
Why do striped bass stack below dams?
A.
Stripers stack below dams during their spring spawn run because the dam blocks upstream migration, concentrating fish in the tailrace. Below-dam fishing during the run produces dense schools and aggressive bites. Dam discharges also stir up bait, creating feeding opportunities throughout the year, not just during spawn.
Many states have closed seasons or special regulations below dams during spawn. Migration calendar and regulations pages cover both timing and rules.