Throughout North America, bass of all types are loved and obsessed over, from the smallies of the Midwest to the bucketmouths of the South. But along the north Atlantic coast, there’s no question that the People’s Choice award goes to Morone saxatilis—the Striped Bass. They’re a hard-nosed, no-nonsense fish—the perfect New England mascot—one that demands respect no matter your approach. Chasing diving terns and blitzing bass on top? You betcha. Dredging squid patterns in tidal rips for heavyweights? Why not. Sight-fishing white-sand flats with a floating line and Merkin crab? You had me at “sight-fishing.” Whether you’re running a $100K center console, a $5K new-to-you skiff, or a $5 pair of flip flops and a repurposed milk crate stripping basket, there’s a striper out there for you.