Rumors Confirmed

April 19, 2005 - That's right! A very reliable source confirmed the presence of striped bass within the Bass River system this past weekend (April 15-16-17). He, while in the presence and a few other longrodders, took a number of fish (to 20") while canvassing the upper reaches of the river. It is interesting to note that there was virtually no activity until dusk when pods of fish could be detected crashing bait on the surface in selected areas of Follins Pond. This activity lasted for only a brief period of time and a small boat, canoe or float tube would have greatly aided in the angler's success as the schools would at times become difficult to corral.
Our source also reports that all the fish that were taken appeared to be bright and fresh and not winter residents of the system.

While bayside is always a week or two in arrears, we would expect that this upcoming week will signal the true commencement of the migratory stripped bass season in southern New England. It should not be uncommon to field positive reports from many south facing estuaries, rivers, marshes and barrier beaches as fish begin to filter their way into the system. Expect a week or so of smaller, school fish to be evident before the more sought after larger specimens arrive.

These early fish are often voracious feeders and less selective than summer fish. In our opinion it becomes more of an issue of depth of presentation than fly selection.

FLY FISH AMERICA
If you've picked up your complementary issue of Fly Fish America's Saltwater Gear Guide, make sure to check out page 58. You will be treated to the recipe for a very effective fly pattern designed by our own Paul Clark of Whitinsville, MA. The fly is entitled the PC Shrimp and was created to display subtle motion when employed during either sight fishing or blind casting situations.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB