Fishing Report for Cape Cod - May 19th – 26th 2024
Exciting Times on Cape Cod: Striped Bass and Bluefish Arrival
The striped bass are making their way up the coast with food on their mind. We have been able to report catches of various sized striped bass, even some small schoolies. It’s never been so nice to see the little guys swimming on through. We have seen mostly really large fish in addition to the now “standard” current population size of 30” plus. Its great to be back on the water with friends, we hope you are just as psyched as we are! We have seen some bluefish on the southside as well and in decent numbers.
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 Weather Outlook
The water temperature of Cape Cod Bay is currently around 52-53 degrees Fahrenheit. The water will certainly increase with the warmer weather coming this week. The weather stayed very spring-like for the Cheeky Fly Fishing Tournament and looks like it will improve immensely over the next few days. Its great to see the Cheeky Fly Fishing Tournament making a big effort to help participate and fund striped bass conservation. It’s more important than ever!
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 the 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
The flats are starting to warm up and show more life which means more food sources for the striped bass. It's about this time of year where you will see your first few lady crabs which will quickly start the crab madness that we all love in June. The marshes and estuaries are showing the invasive green crab which can be a great bet when fishing the estuaries or outlets to estuaries. Fishing a baitfish pattern can be fruitful when presented properly. Remember, Striped Bass can be really lazy and the typical striper strip is not always the ticket. Using the current to your advantage and letting that fly drift naturally is most of the time your best bet for presenting the fly.
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. Teaching sight fishing all winter in the Bahamas, 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 sight fishing the flats on Cape Cod – book your excursion with Solstice Fly Fishing today!