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Show Bass upcoming sport fish of the 80s Striped bass are considered con-sidered by many fishing enthusiasts to be the sport fish of the 1980's. Majestic Lake Powell, located in south-central Utah, is one of the west's newest lakes to support a growing striped bass population. Advances in biological research and knowledge permitted the introduction in-troduction of striped bass into many freshwater lakes during the '70's. In 1974, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources planted the first "stripers" in Lake Powell. The introduction took place after biologists and researchers were certain the new species would be compatible with the reservoir's environment, existing game fish species and that sufficient suf-ficient forage fish were present in the lake. The key to successful striper fishing is finding the fish. Schools of these large trophy fish are typically found in close proximity to schools of threadfin shad. Since shad are less mobile than striped bass, it is usually advisable for anglers to locate the shad. The depth of the shad usually indicates where stripers are feeding. Shad can often be found by watching open-water bays, shorelines and coves for concentration of birds. Mergansers, grebes, bulls and even ravens often gather to feed on the shad. A pair of binoculars may be helpful in scouting these areas for birds. Striped bass are strong fighters, usually making several deep runs before tiring. Conventional bass fishing rods and reels are adequate for stripers as long as the drag mechanism is in good working order. Monofilament line of 8-14 pound test is suggested. It is recommended that fishermen have at least two rods, one rigged for casting and another for trolling. Both techniques are successful and necessary, depending on conditions. (Remember, however, that Utah law permits the use of only one rod at a time.) |