EXOTICS, OR LACK OF

September 10, 2003 - To assert that this year's late season migratory fish have been a bit of a mystery would be an understatement. While it is true that there has been an abundance of Hispanic-Macs throughout Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound, the most noted disappointment to date has been the absence of fly rod BFT's in Cape Cod Bay. Even to our south, reports of success while targeting albies and bonito have been marginal at best. With the exception of bluefish (which are present in extraordinary numbers this season) this continues the theme of virtually every transient species arriving at least two weeks in arrears.

We recently interviewed a cadre from the "West Wall" congregation and they are expressing similar sentiments, no fish. At this point this does not translate into a dismal hard-tail season, but should angling not dramatically improve within a week or two there could be reason for concern. With the season winding down, it would be a shame not to experience the light tackle excitement these speedsters provide.

LINESIDERS
The roots of the north Atlantic inshore fishery has always been steeped in the pursuit of striped bass. On this front there has been no absence of action. As the middle of the month approaches, estuaries, barrier beaches and flats will hold fewer and fewer fish, and will become less relative to the shore bound angler. Striped Bass will revert to their autumn, migratory behavior and offer boat anglers and surf dwellers the best opportunities of the year. This week we have fielded numerous reports from longrodders canvassing water only a mile or two from south facing Cape Cod beaches and witnessing literally acres of surface feeding fish. We would expect this continue throughout the month, with the portability of boat becoming more and more essential.

SAGE'S NEW OFFERING
I recently got a first hand look at (and a chance to cast) the new Xi2 rods Sage will be including in their 2004 offerings. For anglers seeking a noticeably lighter, ultra-fast action rod, with the distinct feel of an XP (only faster) you will absolutely fall in love with them. The 8wt-4pc model I test-drove, had me tossing extremely tight loops and generating intense line speed with very little effort. Anglers that long for the distinctive action of the extinct RPLX series are destined to become huge fans.

Incidentally, if you have neglected to visit the sale page of our web site, be aware that we are offering substantial savings on a few remaining models of the now defunct RPLXi saltwater series in both 2 and 3 piece. These rods have been one of the company's most successful ventures in the field of saltwater angling and will continue to be desired long after the final rod is sold. Still my favorite (maybe until I get a chance to actually fish with the Xi2).

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB