BLUEFISH INVADE

May 23, 2003 - Bluefish have been present along the Cape's south side for a week or so. Shore bound anglers are reporting better than average success at traditional late May haunts. Thatch Island in Mashpee, Oregon Beach in Barnstable and the West Bay inlet in Wianno have all witnessed blitzes of sizable proportion. As of this writing, choppers have yet to inhabit the cooler water of Harwich and Chatham but I wouldn't be surprised to find a few marauding schools by week's end.

The warmer temps of the previous few days has spiked the striper activity and it's sure to assume we are approaching the most reliable fishing of the season.

Larger fish have migrated into the Chatham area and are a nice compliment to the hoards of 12-16" fish that have been present for a few weeks now. Despite what looks like ominous weather through the Memorial Day holiday, the next 5-6 weeks should provide wading anglers enough opportunity to keep everyone happy.

SIGHT FISHING
If you are among the addicted, as I am, there have been numerous fish on the west side flats of South Beach and the environs of North Monomoy Island in Chatham. They have yet to display their summertime selectivity habits and it's an opportune time to hone the sight fishing skills that will benefit you as we progress into the season. The two most important factors are; your ability to view fish at distance (90-100 feet) and casting accuracy. In the coming few weeks and throughout the summer it will not be uncommon to witness many groups of cruising stripers within the confines of a fishing session. We encourage you to experience this world class fishery firsthand.

THE MERRIMACK
Rumor has it that north shore anglers have finally begun to witness their first fish of the season. Most are reporting typical schoolie activity (12-16") in the Plum Island and Joppa Flats areas. Fishing should improve dramatically within a weeks time with the possibility of a much improved weather pattern.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB