Fishing Report for Cape Cod - May 2024
Exciting Times on Cape Cod: Striped Bass Arrival
As the spring unfolds, the striped bass migration is in full swing along the Cape Cod coast. It's an exhilarating time for anglers as these fish make their annual journey northward. The flats of Cape Cod have shown schools of Striped Bass and it will only increase as the water temperatures do.
As we are getting excited about this season please read ”The Striped Bass Population” section to get a simple update of the reality of these awesome fish. It's more important than ever to help where we can.
Water Temperature and Herring Run Activity
For those keeping an eye on conditions, the water temperature of Cape Cod Bay currently stands at a brisk 49 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is conducive to striped bass activity and will improve as temperatures start to reach over 52 degrees. Every year that seems to be around that number when the fish really start showing in numbers.
Additionally, the herring run phenomenon is in full swing around Cape Cod. In Brewster, last week's herring count soared to an impressive 30,000 within a single week. This abundance of herring serves as a vital food source for early season striped bass, further enhancing the fishing prospects in our region.
The Striped Bass Population
It's so vitally important to remember the current status of our striped bass population on the Atlantic coast. Currently, because of poor spawning conditions and a few other factors we are watching our population diminish. There are more larger and older striped bass than there are younger fish. This will really show up in a few years as the fishing will get really tough. This is a reminder to practice proper catch and release tactics. Keep the fish in the water, use barbless hooks, and reduce fight times. These will all help reduce our impact on the fishery. Please follow American Saltwater Guides Association and their blogs to get a really good idea of how striped bass are doing and the political struggles they face.
Flies For Sight Fishing Striped Bass On Cape Cod Flats
During the early season on the flats you want to think of what food source the striped bass might have. Look around the flats and kick up some sand to understand what might be around. Typically in May, fishing a small herring or baitfish pattern can be a great way to get some interest. The crabs on the flats have not really come out yet but you might get some looks there as well. A personal favorite of Kevin’s on the flats this time of year is a flounder pattern. There’s a certain way to strip it to get the bass interested and this can be an awesome way to feed some big fish on the flats this early season.
Plan Your Sight Fishing Adventure with Solstice
Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice eager to experience the thrill of sight fishing for striped bass fishing, inquire with Kevin about a trip on the flats. Kevin prides himself on teaching new and experienced anglers the nuances of sight fishing. Sight fishing Cape Cod Flats is quite a fun time.
Visit our website at solsticeflyfishing.com to learn more about our guided trips, check availability, and secure your spot. Don't miss out on the excitement of fishing season on Cape Cod – book your excursion with Solstice Fly Fishing today!