ARE BONES IN YOUR FUTURE?

August 13, 2009 - Midsummer has never been kind to the saltwater fly-fisherman, particularly those that take pleasure in the wading experience. Not to imply that you can't experience a stellar day afield, but the techniques, and in some cases the locations, certainly will require alterations. The warming water along with an increase in human activity does not lend itself kindly to the shore bound angler. That distinguished little estuary no longer holds the fish of May and June, nor does that backside barrier beach you frequented provide the cooler water required to support our striped bass population. You must be willing to adjust.

We are suggesting that you consider the south facing surf beaches of Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet and Truro particularly during low light or no light conditions. We all have our personal favorites (Ballston in Truro is mine) that we can build a relationship with and grow affection for over time. It wasn't that many years ago that I took 2 (30+ lb. fish on consecutive casts) during the month of August, oblivious to the few remaining bathers that lingered on the beach. While I generally have a preference to the pre-dawn hours, this day would find me jettisoning my offering under nearly perfect summer conditions as the heads of striped bass popped within the outer reaches of my casting ability. It was a day that will be etched in my memory for years to come.

A SPRINKLING OF BONES
While Atlantic bonito have emerged along the south facing beaches of the upper Cape and the islands we would hardly consider them targets of opportunity. We have fielded a few reports that fly anglers are witnessing random schools, more by happenstance than intent. While we are not very optimistic about this fishery considering the disaster of 2008, we're taking a wait-and-see outlook. Should a solid season begin to emerge we'll be sure to give you a heads-up. Also worth mentioning is the fact that a few, and I mean a few, Spanish macs have also begun to arrive. Once again I am not very confident that we will experience that stellar fishing of a few years ago but I'll try to remain optimistic.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB