JAILBREAK May 15, 2009 - It certainly took a while but we are finally experiencing a substantial push of fish along our southern coastal estuaries. I am confident in declaring that there are fishable numbers of striped bass both south side and well into Cape Cod Bay. I briefly spoke with Brewster resident John Amiro this past week and he reports better than average results while wading directly in front of his house located just west of Sesuit Harbor. The majority of fish were in the 20-24" range with a few keepers in the mix. John maintains an extensive log, a practice that should be a requirement for every saltwater fly angler, and expressed that this was the earliest he has encountered striped bass while toiling along his beachfront. Mackerel that have migrated in during this past week also occupy the Bay. The macs are traditionally accompanied by more portly bass and I wouldn't be surprised if they become commonplace by weeks end. Anglers fishing the Bass River estuary have also experienced a spike in activity and the next 3 or 4 weeks should provide the best fishing of the season. Look for a varied size range (10-30") to be present and offering easy targets to popper fans. I also chatted with son-in-law Steve Curtis of Plymouth and his crew has been taking fish for about 2 weeks now. They have been targeting Plymouth Harbor with emphasis on the Eel River outlet. With the middle of May now upon us bluefish are sure to enter the fray. While we have no confirmation of their presence the south facing estuaries of Cotuit, Mashpee and Falmouth usually receive the initial push of fish generally between May 15-20th. Traditionally these early migrants are in the 5-8lb. range and offer spectacular sport both on and under the surface. There have been more than a few locals making the trek to the Connecticut shore and report the presence of extensive schools of adult menhaden even though the fishing has been marginal at best. Look for fishing to dramatically improve after a relatively slow start with the next 4 or 5 weeks to offer the best opportunity of the season. Good fishing and safe
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