Welcome to Cape Cod, where fishing is part of the local culture. With its stunning beaches and clear waters, Cape Cod is a paradise for both freshwater and saltwater anglers. If you’re planning to visit this beautiful region, you’ll want to know all about the latest fishing news. Here’s the Cape Cod Fishing Report for May 19, 2023.
Current Weather and Water Conditions
The weather on Cape Cod is sunny and warm, with temperatures hovering in the mid-60s to low 70s. This is great news for anglers, as warm weather is favorable to fish activity.
The water temperature is around 54 to 60 degrees in most areas. The warm temperatures have triggered the start of the fishing season, with fishers reporting good hauls in the last week.
Inshore Fishing
Inshore fishing is getting better each day, with fishers enjoying good catches in the bays and estuaries. If you’re looking to catch striped bass, flounder, or black sea bass, this is the perfect time to go.
Most fishermen have been using baits such as squid and mackerel. You can also try using seaworms in the rocky areas as they’ve proven successful.
The most active spots are around Chatham and Falmouth, where striped bass and flukes are currently abundant. The warmer water temperature, combined with light winds, makes it more manageable for anglers to navigate these locations.
Offshore Fishing
Offshore fishing has also been productive, with reports of plenty of activity in the deep waters. Big-game species such as tuna, marlin, and swordfish have been caught in the last two weeks.
If you are interested in deep-sea fishing, you can head to the southeast area of Nantucket. Dolphin fish have been seen in large numbers around this location. Reports from fishermen indicate that the fish are biting rapidly, making it easier for anglers to catch them. The best bait to use in this area is squid.
Fishing Regulations on Cape Cod
While fishing regulations change over time, it’s always essential to know the current laws to avoid breaking them. Thankfully, the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife (MA DFW) publishes up-to-date information on current fishing regulations.
Recreational fishermen are only allowed to keep one fish per day for fisheries such as black sea bass, summer flounder, and scup. Striped bass fishing regulations are limited to one striper per person, per day, with the exception of one fish larger than 28 inches.
Offshore fishing has different regulations, and anglers require permits to fish in areas further from the shore. Double-checking with the MA DFW helps you stay up-to-date with all fishing regulations on Cape Cod.
Where to Get Good Equipment and Supplies
Fishing gear is essential to any angler, and Cape Cod has a variety of stores where you can get all the supplies you need. From bait to rods and reels, these stores will ensure you have everything you need for a successful trip.
Some of the popular stores include Goose Hummock at Orleans, Red Top Sporting Goods ranging from Falmouth, Buzzards Bay, and Cape Cod Lures located in Sandwich. They carry all types of fishing equipment, and their staff is always ready to help you with anything you need.
Charter Companies
If you’re new to fishing or want to try out something different, charter companies are the way to go. These companies offer a unique way to experience fishing on Cape Cod, and they are staffed by professional crew members.
Some of the best companies in the area include Monomoy Sportfishing Charters, which offers inshore and offshore fishing. Their vessels are up-to-date, and their captains ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable fishing experience.
Another company worth mentioning is Bluefin IV, which offers offshore fishing, whale watching, and sunset charters. Their vessels are well maintained, and their rates are reasonable, making it the perfect option for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
We hope that this Cape Cod Fishing Report for May 19, 2023, helps you plan your next fishing trip to the region. With the weather warming up and both inshore and offshore fishing conditions improving, it is the perfect time to hit the water in search of a good catch. Remember to check out the latest fishing regulations and gear up at any of the local tackle stores before heading out. Happy fishing!