SEASON OPENER SPECIAL

April 5, 2003 - Let us embark on yet another season by pitching out a cliche… It's been a long, long, long winter. Way back in August (when we received our initial snowstorm) little did we realize how severe and downright perseverant this season would be. The proverbial light at the end of the tunnel becomes more like a beacon however as we intrude into the month of April and notions of migrating stripers occupy our thoughts rather than ice scrapers and washer fluid.

HERRING RUNS
Despite unusually low water temperatures in most areas (38-42 degrees) Atlantic herring have begun to appear in almost every customary location. This should be a good indication that the migration pattern of striped bass will not be greatly affected by the residue of winter. We would not be surprised to receive word of "fishable" numbers of school fish by month's end and certainly by the initial week of May, particularly in the south facing estuaries of Cape Cod (earlier in Rhode Island). Generally these precocious transients are on the diminutive size but more than eager to accept most offerings.

RIP RYDER
Hardy anglers wanting to scratch that early season itch will find the popular Rip Ryder Monomoy Island Shuttle initiating service on Saturday, May 3rd. Captain Lincoln plans on running 5-7 days by mid May and should be in full operation after Memorial Day. If you would like to take advantage of the unique Chatham fishery please visit their web site at www.monomoyislandferry.com or call ahead at 508.945.5450 for more details and current schedule.

Flats style sight fishing should commence sometime around the middle of May and continue throughout the remainder of the season. Be prepared to encounter the occasional bluefish in the mix particularly toward the end of the month and well into June.

THERE'S ROOM FOR OPTIMISM
On virtually every front the 2003 inshore season is shaping up to be memorable. From perusing state-sponsored press releases, reviewing angler data and attending informational seminars the immediate health of our striped bass population appears to be quite vibrant. While we are a bit apprehensive concerning many of the management practices being implemented for the ensuing season (just leave it up to us and we're certain to screw it up) there is no reason to believe that coastal fly anglers won't enjoy yet another epic season.

CCA CENTRAL CHAPTER
The Central Massachusetts Chapter of CCA will hold it's annual fund raising banquet on Thursday, May 8th at Leo's Ristorante, 11 Brackett Ct. (just off Shrewsbury St.) in Worcester. The cocktail hour will commence at 6 PM followed by dinner, auction, raffle etc. Ducats for the event are $30 for members, $35 for spouse and $45 for new members, (which includes membership). Tickets are available at The Lower Forty 508.752.4004.

Good fishing and safe wading,

JB