STILL WAITING

April 18, 2004 - This has got to be the most anxious time of year. With water temperatures hovering in the low 40's and the prospects of another saltwater season looming in the not too distant future, fly tyers are tidying up their boxes in anticipation of another outstanding year.

While token numbers of herring have been observed entering local runs, a stretch of a more moderate weather should throw things into high gear. As was the case in 2003, we would expect things to be a bit tardy (due to the lower than normal winter climate and ice cover) regarding these early pushes of fish. Look for many Cape Cod estuaries to "light up" during early May and gain momentum as we approach the middle of the month.

After perusing a multitude of releases authored by governmental agencies, private organizations and clubs, it is out contention that inshore fly fishermen should experience another exceptional season. Our only concern has been the subsequent decline (or so it seems) of Atlantic bonito and false albacore many anglers experienced while targeting these species during their late summer and early fall migration.

THE BOOK
Nimrods, as well as seasoned vets, would do themselves a service by scooping up a copy Ed Mitchell's "Fly Rodding Estuaries." Whether you prefer smaller, relatively obscure, intimate waters, or larger, more popular estuaries, you will learn what equipment is suitable, which leaders and knots to use, and how to match poppers, sliders, streamers and other imitations to the prevailing bait fish. You will also be exposed to what effect tide, current, light, wind, and seasonal changes have on our coastal fishery. Copies are modestly priced at $19.95 and are a must read for all saltwater anglers.

MONOMOY ISLAND FERRY
Keith Lincoln, of Rip Ryder fame, plans to be up and running by Saturday, May 1st. During the early season it's always a good idea to call ahead to avoid being disappointed. His web site is www.monomoyislandferry.com or he can be contacted by phone at 508.945.5450. Fees to both South Beach and North Monomoy Island remain at $10, which by our estimation is a real bargain.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB