Cape Cod is known for its stunning beaches and rich history, but it’s also home to some of the best striped bass fishing in the world. As an avid angler, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to cast my line into the waters of Cape Cod Bay and try my luck at catching this prized game fish.
To start, I did my research and learned that striped bass can be found in Cape Cod Bay from May to October, with peak season typically in June and July. I also learned that these fish prefer cooler water temperatures and are often found in areas with strong currents, such as rips and shoals.
Armed with this knowledge, I headed out to one of Cape Cod’s many fishing charters for a day on the water. The captain and crew were seasoned veterans, and they knew exactly where to take us for the best chance at catching striped bass.
We started by trolling with wire line and using umbrella rigs, a technique that involves multiple lures on one line. This method proved successful, as we caught several smaller striped bass within the first hour. However, we were determined to catch a larger specimen, so we switched to casting and retrieving with topwater lures.
This method requires a bit more finesse and patience, as the lure needs to be worked in a way that mimics the movements of a baitfish. But after a few casts, I felt a strong tug on my line and knew I had hooked something big. The fight was intense, and I could feel the power of the fish as it tried to escape. But with some expert guidance from the crew, I was able to reel in a beautiful 40-inch striped bass.
As the day went on, we continued to catch more striped bass using a variety of techniques, including live bait and soft plastic lures. We also witnessed the incredible sight of schools of striped bass feeding on baitfish near the surface, an experience that any angler would be thrilled to see.
Aside from the thrill of the catch, striped bass fishing in Cape Cod offers an opportunity to explore the stunning scenery and wildlife that the area has to offer. We saw pods of dolphins swimming nearby, and even caught a glimpse of a great white shark patrolling the waters.
When fishing for striped bass, it’s important to choose the right gear. A medium to heavy action rod that’s at least 7 feet long is ideal, paired with a spinning or conventional reel that can hold at least 200 yards of 20 to 30 pound test line. Striped bass are known for their hard-fighting nature, so you’ll need a reel with a good drag system to handle the fish’s runs.
In terms of lures and baits, there are many options that can be effective for striped bass. Topwater plugs can be great for early morning or late afternoon fishing, while soft plastics like swimbaits and jerkbaits can be productive throughout the day. Live bait, such as eels, clams, and bunker, can also be effective. It’s important to match the size and color of your bait or lure to the size and feeding patterns of the fish.
When fishing from shore, it’s important to look for areas where striped bass are likely to be feeding. These might include rocky points, jetties, and areas with structure like submerged rocks or wrecks. During certain times of the year, striped bass may also move into estuaries and river mouths to feed, so it’s worth exploring these areas as well.
Overall, my experience fishing for striped bass in Cape Cod was unforgettable. The thrill of the catch combined with the stunning scenery and wildlife made for a truly memorable day on the water. If you’re an angler looking for a challenge and a chance to explore one of the most beautiful areas in the country, I highly recommend giving striped bass fishing in Cape Cod a try.
