Wipers are a hybrid fish that are a mix of striped bass and white bass. There are many wiper hatcheries around the U.S., though these fish originated in South Carolina. The best methods for catching them include drift fishing, fly fishing, spin casting, still fishing, and trolling.
Habitat: Lake, Pond, River
How to identify Wiper
The wiper is a hybrid of striped bass and white bass. As such, they have features of both parental species. The coloring on their bodies is silver/white with 6-8 dark, horizontal markings. They have 8- 10 sharp spines on both sets of their dorsal fins. These spines begin in the front of each fin. Wipers can grow about 24 inches long and weigh as much as 12 pounds. Some of these fish have been known to tip the scale at 20+ pounds.
Where to catch Wiper
Hatcheries have released wipers throughout the U.S. This cross-breed originated in South Carolina in the 1960s and is often called the “original cross” because striped bass eggs were fertilized using white bass sperm. Wipers are found in big reservoirs in the southeast as a result of abundant stocking. Anglers have come to appreciate them as sport fish.
The following are habitats where you can catch Wiper:
- Cliffs
- Freshwater Lakes and Ponds
- Freshwater Weed Beds
- Gradual Shores
- Lake and Pond Fishing Holes
- Inlets and Outlets
- Inside Turns and Coves
- Islands or Sand Bars
- Piers, Docks and Pilings
- Rocks
- Shoreline Shallows
- Springs Holes
- Sunken Objects
- Walkways and Bridges
How to catch Wiper
Anglers consider wipers to be both a great sport fish and an outstanding-tasting meal. Once these fish are hooked, they’ll aggressively fight. They are known for their speed and stamina. Anglers most often catch them by trolling with bait and lures; however, other methods can also work well. Anglers can try spin or bait casting and fly tackle with natural bait or lures. Look for them near currents and eddies. Try aiming the bait or lure close to the top of the flowing water and moving it quickly to attract the fish’s attention. Wipers are schooling fish, but it isn’t advisable to toss a lure or bait into the center of the school. The better option is to study where the school is moving and aim in front of it. The best time to catch a wiper is at dawn and dusk because this is when they are most active.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching Wiper:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch Wiper
Wipers are known to hit on almost anything. Some good choices for baits include chicken livers and shad. Spoons can also be effective.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch Wiper:
