Massachusetts Saltwater Beach Fishing
Massachusetts is known as a haven for saltwater beach fishermen. While there are many places to fish, some such as Cape Cod stand out. The most desired game fish of Massachusetts beach anglers is the striped bass, but bluefish and smelt are popular too because of their taste and the fights they put up on the line.
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Locations
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Crane Beach, Cape Cod, and Sea Gull Beach are destinations for local and vacationing anglers alike. Cape Cod is a particular destination of interest because of the other amenities it offers such as nearby golf course, shopping, and a close proximity to places like Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Island. The beaches are known for their natural beauty and a good selection of game fish.
Striped Bass
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According to the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, striped bass rarely venture more than a few miles from the shore line and are known for their size, fighting on the line, and culinary benefits. These fish can grow up to 50 pounds or larger. Their numbers have fluctuated over time, but in 2010, Massachusetts reported the striped bass population was the highest it had been in 20 years.
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Fishing for striped bass
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The best time to fish for striped bass in Massachusetts is in the summertime when they are migrating up north. From spring to fall they roam the waters and then head south to the Chesapeake Bay for the winter. Herring, pogies or mackerel are commonly used for baitfish as they are populous in the Massachusetts shoreline area and a favorite of striped bass. Due to the turbulent conditions of Massachusetts' coastal waters, heavy rods and strong test lines should be used.
Other game fish
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The bluefish is popular among Massachusetts anglers because it fights on the line like a striped bass, but rarely grows larger than 20 pounds. Bluefish are found all across the state's saltwaters.
Smelt reside close to shore. They are a smaller breed of fish, usually not getting larger than 9 inches in length. Their flavor makes them popular with anglers with dinner plans.
National Registration
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In an effort to maintain fish stocks, rules have changed nationally regarding registration and licensing. If you are a saltwater angler over the age of 16, not fishing under a charter business, and do not meet other exemptions, you must register with the Marine Recreational Information Program under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). A registration fee of $15 to $25 will be put in place on January 1, 2011. Registrations must be renewed each year and there will be penalties for not being registered. If you plan on fishing only with a charter or guide, you do not have to register.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit beach fishing image by sheldon gardner from Fotolia.com
