When the clock strikes 4 on Friday afternoon, there are two things on my mind: beer and striped bass. Thanks to Rising Tide Brewing Company and Oxbow Brewing Company, which are based in Portland, Maine, I can have both at once. The two breweries recently collaborated to make a tasty golden/blonde American ale called Striper Season, which is equal parts malty, refreshing and smooth.
Tim Adams of Oxbow Beer generously dropped us a few cans during his visit to Cape Cod for the Cheeky Schoolie Tournament a few weeks back, so this Friday, we kicked off Beer:30 with a taste of Striper Season.
In a frosted pint glass, Striper Season has a nice golden-brown hue and pours with a solid 1-inch foamy head. The aroma is pleasant and light, and the flavor profile unique. Striper Season is malty right off the bat, but it is complemented by subtly sweet notes of lemon and as a result, finishes mild and mellow. It’s a crisp and refreshing brew that goes down easy, which makes it—as seen on the can—”balanced” and “crushable”. I’d fancy a few during a hot summer day soaking clam or bunker chunks on the beach, but it’s not just a summer beer. This is a beer to be shared among friends in a winter fly-tying circle, or after casting for hours through pounding waves during a fall run surf sesh. If you can keep a 4-pack in the house through December, every season is striper season.
Even better, Striper Season is brewed in support of the American Saltwater Guides Association and the work they are doing to protect the future of our beloved striped bass. And what’s better than a beer that you can feel good about drinking? Our official office score can be found below.
Rising Tide Brewing Co. x Oxbow Brewing Co.
Striper Season Ale
ABV: 4.5%
Homeport: Portland, ME
Official Score: 8.3/10
Available at Oxbow Brewing Co.
» Visit Oxbow’s other locations in Newcastle and Oxford, Maine.
Related Content
Six Craft (Fishing) Beers You Should Try
Fishing-Themed Spirits with a Cause
Read More Fish Beer Friday Reviews
Matt Haeffner grew up on Long Island, NY, where he fished on party boats, his kayak, and the South Shore & North Fork beaches for bluefish, striped bass, fluke, and more. With a decade of experience as a kayak instructor, fishing retail specialist, and editor, he is well-versed in the tackle and techniques that apply to the Northeast’s fisheries. For 12 months a year, he enjoys surfcasting, wading, and kayak fishing on Cape Cod, MA, and beyond.