I knew of the SC circumstance. Also knew of stripers introduced to the pacific coast where they have duplicated their east coast success - so much so that salmon lovers regard stripers as an invasive species. Just became aware they are now being stocked in multiple fresh water locations. Do they get as big (50 lbs +) in fresh water?
been fishing for flounder/fluke in NJ for 50 years and have never seen a fluke rig with a float. Fluke lay on the bottom and ambush from the bottom. A float is elevating your bait away from the fish.
I didn't realize stripers were so adaptable.
It's unwise to buy cheap gear - poor performance, reliability and durability suffer. On the other hand, you don't need to break the bank on high end stuff either. Find the sweet spot of price vs quality. I surf fish and find Penn rod/reel combos in the $250 range works for me. A 10 foot graphite rod is light weight and with 40 lb braided line can handle the fish I target - mostly striped bass, fluke & blues. Penn reels can be worked on by most tackle shops that provide that service.
RIGHT NOW THE SPRING STRIPER MIGRATION IS IN PROGRESS AT JERSEY SHORE - AC, LBI, SEASIDE HEIGHTS - ANYWHERE UP TO SANDY HOOK. SURF HAS STRIPERS AND BLUES.
avoid the frustration of cheap equipment. $225 will buy a Penn spinning reel & 10 ft graphite surf rod combo with 30 lb test braid line.
took 45 minutes to get it close enough to the beach to see it. was too big to handle, cut the line.
within minutes I knew it was a ray - they hug the bottom and are gliders - no herky jerky fighting action.
I use a 10 foot surf rod with 40 lb braid for all ocean fishing. Braid is light weight and casts well. You want to be prepared because in the ocean, you never know what you might tie into. 3 years ago I hooked a 100 lb ray at LBI NJ. Needed every bit of strength my hardware could provide.
Stripers are migratory ocean fish - where would they be stocked?
striped bass - no contest. great to eat but catch & release way to go. Stripers 50+ pounds come right into the NJ surf.
striped bass (schoolies) are now becoming active in back bays and inlets. blood worms are the best bait