Eel Bait Guide - Using Eels in New Jersey
Live eels are the ultimate trophy striped bass bait, particularly for night fishing. Their undulating movement triggers aggressive strikes from the largest bass. Many of New Jersey...
Live eels are the ultimate trophy striped bass bait, particularly for night fishing. Their undulating movement triggers aggressive strikes from the largest bass. Many of New Jersey's biggest stripers have fallen to a well-presented live eel.
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Overview
American eels are available at tackle shops throughout the season. They're hardy, easy to keep alive, and stay active on the hook for extended periods. Eels are fished live, usually at night around structure, jetties, and along the beach. Their effectiveness for big stripers is legendary.
Where to Find Eels
Catch or Collect Your Own
- ✓Cannot easily catch your own - purchase is standard
- ✓Some anglers trap eels in bays, but this is uncommon
Where to Buy
- ✓Live eels at most tackle shops ($8-15/dozen during season)
- ✓Call ahead - supply can be inconsistent
- ✓Some shops sell by weight rather than count
Keeping Eels Fresh
- 1Keep in cool, damp seaweed or burlap - not submerged
- 2A cooler with ice packs works well
- 3Refrigerate for storage up to a week
- 4Handle with a rag - eels are slippery
- 5Too much water actually drowns them - damp is better
Rigging Methods
Lip Hook
Hook through both lips or lower jaw. Eel swims naturally. Best for free-lining.
Eye Socket
Hook through the eye sockets for a more secure hold. Good when casting is required.
Tail Hook (Rigging)
Some anglers add a stinger hook near the tail for short strikers. More complex but effective.
Target Species
Seasonal Availability
Spring
Good - becoming available at shops
Summer
Excellent - readily available
Fall
Excellent - peak striper season
Winter
Limited - season winding down
Pro Tips
- ✓Night fishing with eels produces the biggest stripers
- ✓Fish eels slow - let them swim naturally
- ✓Around structure is key - jetties, bridges, rocks
- ✓Use a headlamp with red light to preserve night vision
- ✓Let the fish eat - count to 10 before setting with circle hooks
- ✓Fresh eels that are lively outfish sluggish ones
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are eels so effective for stripers?
Eels are natural striper prey, their movement is irresistible, and they swim actively for hours. The biggest bass often focus on eels as substantial, easy meals.
How do I handle slippery eels?
Use a dry rag, paper towel, or fish-handling glove. Grab firmly behind the head. Some anglers dip eels in dry sand to improve grip.
Live vs artificial eels?
Live is always more effective, but artificial eels (soft plastics) work when live eels aren't available. The action of a live eel is hard to replicate.