INVASION OF THE GANNET SNATCHERS

June 5, 2010 - That’s right Martha if you were fortunate enough to canvass the flats off Brewster the previous weekend, you more than likely witnessed an invasion of Gannets that complimented the ever-present population of gulls and terns. Having a wingspan in the 70” range the Northern Gannet is the most common booby found from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. It’s diving behavior and large size makes it identifiable at great distance. It is significant to the fly fisherman due to the fact that diving Gannets are sure to indicate the presence of baitfish (in this case sand eels in the 2 ½ inch range).

The feeding birds we observed on the immediate flats area, while notable in their intentions, were simply masticating pods of sand eels, absent of a single striped bass. In stark contrast the Gannets detected in 15-18 feet of dark water, just off the flats proper, were feeding on similar forage, this time being “pushed up” by impressive schools of striped bass.

The key to success on this day was to anchor up, rather than drift fish and risk starting the motor when out of position, and wait until a group of feeding striped bass (revealed by diving Gannets) approached within our range. The entire afternoon saw us go no longer than 5 or 10 minutes before experiencing the tug of a bass with many specimens falling in the 28-32 inch range.

COAKLEY’S GOT THE BLUES
According to reports from Captain Kevin Coakley the environs of Wellfleet Harbor, Lieutenants Island and Sunken Meadow are now being occupied by marauding schools bluefish with an occasional striped bass in the mix. Blues have been averaging 8-10lbs. and, at times, can be observed fining just subsurface. All these areas can be easily “drift fished” by boat until fish are located. We like Surflon Micro Ultra wire in 26lb. (12 kg) in camo for bit guards. Traces of the wire can be attached to most mono leaders by employing a simple Albright knot. Floating lines in conjunction with a Garthside Gurgler, Crease Fly or similar surface bait remains the most electrifying and exciting way to pursue these fish.

Good fishing and safe wading,
JB