SIGHT FISHING FOR BONES

June 22, 2006 - Many, many years ago good friend Gary Nolan of Holden (now residing in Chile) and I visited Cargill Creek Bonefish Club located on the Bahamian Island of Andros. What initially drew us to this part of the world was the wading opportunity that was present throughout the entire atoll. This style of fly-fishing allows the angler to sight, stalk and attempt to accurately deliver a fly to roaming or tailing schools of bonefish in water struggling to attain knee level. So what does this event have to do with the wading opportunities that abound here in New England?

Princeton resident, Don Piktailis brought to my attention the lack of true sight-fishermen he observed during his most recent outing on the extensive flats of South Beach in Chatham. In my opinion this area offers fly-fishermen the classic bonefish-style experience Gary and I first encountered in Andros. I would also consider it to be some of the most productive striped bass, sight-fishing real estate in the world. This being said, Don witnessed numerous anglers flailing the water to froth, with no apparent plan and little or no chance for success. I have to admit that I could relate to his tale of trepidation as I to have viewed this behavior on many occasions myself. During the 15 minute conversation it was our mutual conclusion that an angler's time would be better spent honing his ability to detect fish at distance (75-100') rather than indiscreetly wondering a striper flat while pitching casts in every direction with little or no possibility of success.

BLUEFISH
Our last 3 fishing sessions, both in the bay and ocean side, have yielded numerous bluefish. There seems to be no apparent size grouping with individuals running from 18-20" in warmer bays to 30" slightly offshore. We have yet to witness the summer fish that oftentimes crack the mid 30" barrier.

SQUID ON THE EAST END
With fresh rumors of an influx of squid taking up residence near the east end of Cape Cod Canal, Mike Peluso of Oakham and Ted Purcell of Rutland packed up their gear and headed for Scusset Harbor. The area has been yielding fish in the mid-30's to fly anglers employing pinkish offshore squid patterns in conjunction with heavy grain lines.

CONGRATS
Congratulations are in order for Dave Surdel. The young lad landed a 42"(measured) striper while fishing from Mark Kralian's Jones Brothers out of Wellfleet.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB