As we turn the corner into June, opportunities for surfcasting along Cape Cod and the Islands really pick up. Warming water temperatures draw striped bass close to shore to feed. But don't wait too long. By early/mid summer - as water temperatures continue to rise - those bigger bass will back off to deeper and cooler water.
Fishing from shore requires a longer pole than fishing from a boat - you'll want 8 feet or more - and a reel strung with plenty of line. If you're just getting started, Kevin Blinkoff, of On The Water magazine, recommends heading to a local tackle shop and talking to a salesperson. For about $200, he says, you can get set up with the proper equipment. Don't go wild for lures at the beginning, keep it simple. Again, talk to your tackle shop guide. You may want to consider waders, as well - if so, felt-soled waders are a good choice, as they improve your footing on wet rocks.
For more tips on surfcasting listen to our conversation posted above.
This Week's Fishing Action
Bigger striped bass are showing up now along the Elizabeth Islands and at the Cape Cod Canal - at last! Bluefish continue strong on the south side of the Cape. And Sea bass and scup action is good in the sounds and in Buzzards Bay.
Now bring on June!