HASSLING SCHOOLIES

May 4, 2005 - This past weekend had us searching for new arrivals in a few of the more popular venues of Cape Cod's south side. While we did locate a few fish in both the upper Bass River, (which were bright and contained sea lice) and at the Outermost Harbor Inlet, we drew the conclusion that those banner days of spring are still about a week away.

Smaller baitfish imitations in conjunction with intermediate lines (average depth 4-6 feet) were responsible for much of the morning's success however I was ineffectual in my attempts to draw attention to surface offerings of any configuration.

Most fish landed were in the true schoolie mold, 12-16", unselective, and full of spunk. It would be safe to assume that the moderating and more seasonable temperatures promised through Mother's Day will significantly add to the fish population resulting in more consequential angling opportunity.
We would expect to find fish at some of the more popular springtime haunts: Strong Island Road, Cotchpinicut, Minister's Landing, Clafin's Landing and Morris Island in Chatham, Tonset Road, and Asa's landing in Orleans and the Bass River from West Dennis beach to the headwater's in Yarmouth just to mention a few. Please feel free to contact us should you need additional information on any of these locations.

While most of the action to date has been of the school fish variety we would expect some larger fish to enter the system within a week to 10 days. Bluefish should also make their presence felt sometime around mid month.

RIP RYDER ROCKS
The popular South Beach/No. Monomoy Is. shuttle service, Rip Ryder will commence operation on Saturday, May 7th. Look for services to be available from 8AM-4PM weekends and a more limited weekday schedule. Initially the weekday schedule will offer an 8AM drop and your choice of either a 2PM or 4PM pickup. Due to increased gas prices the fee will be $15 roundtrip, which in our opinion is still a bargain.

Should you plan to be a regular customer don't forget to pick up a 2005 Frequent Ryder Card which can be redeemed freebees in the future.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB