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Cape Cod Fish Species
Fish Season Calendar
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Guide's Targeted Fish Species In May
Common Questions:
What is the best time for striped bass fishing in Cape Cod?
The best time for striped bass fishing in Cape Cod is from May through October, with peak fishing in June and July. During this period, large schools of stripers migrate into Cape Cod Bay, providing incredible action. Our Cape Cod Bay striped bass guide knows the best locations and techniques to put you on the fish.
What is the best bait for striped bass in Cape Cod?
Striped bass respond well to both live and artificial baits. Some of the best options include live mackerel, pogies (menhaden), eels, and squid. Artificial lures like topwater plugs, jigs, and soft plastics can also be highly effective. On our Barnstable fishing charters, we provide all the bait and tackle needed for a successful trip.
What is the average size of striped bass in Cape Cod Bay?
Striped bass in Cape Cod Bay range from schoolies (under 28 inches) to trophy-sized fish over 40 inches and 30+ pounds. Regulations allow anglers to keep one fish between 28 and 31 inches, ensuring a healthy population for future seasons.
When do Atlantic mackerel migrate to Cape Cod?
Atlantic mackerel typically arrive in Cape Cod Bay during spring and remain abundant through early summer. These fish move in large schools and are commonly caught on Cape Cod fishing charters while targeting larger predators like striped bass and tuna.
What is the best way to catch Atlantic mackerel in Cape Cod?
Mackerel are best caught using sabiki rigs, small jigs, and spoons, either by drifting or slow trolling. They are a great target for families and beginner anglers on our Cape Cod Bay family fishing trips.
Can you use Atlantic mackerel as bait for bigger fish?
Yes! Atlantic mackerel are a top bait choice for striped bass, bluefish, and tuna fishing in Cape Cod Bay. We often catch fresh mackerel on our deep sea fishing Cape Cod trips to use as live bait for larger predators.
What is the best time to fish for black sea bass in Cape Cod?
The best time to catch black sea bass in Cape Cod Bay is from mid-May through late July. These fish migrate into shallower waters when water temperatures rise, making them a prime target on our Cape Cod sport fishing trips.
How big do black sea bass get in Cape Cod?
Black sea bass typically range from 1 to 5 pounds, with larger males known as “knotheads” reaching up to 8 pounds. Our full-day offshore fishing Cape Cod trips often encounter some of the biggest fish of the season.
What is the best bait for black sea bass?
Black sea bass respond well to squid, clams, and small jigs. They are often caught while bottom fishing on our Barnstable MA boat fishing tours.
When is the best time to catch bonito in Cape Cod?
Bonito typically arrive in late July and stay through September, providing fast-paced action for anglers on our Cape Cod Bay fishing trips. These fish are known for their speed and strong fight, making them an exciting catch for anglers of all skill levels.
A Annie Bee Sportfishing Fishing Charter targets the top Cape Cod Fish species including Striped Bass, Bluefish, Bonito, Flounder, Atlantic Mackerel, Black Seabass, Mako Shark, Albacore Tuna, Bigeye Tuna. We primarily Fish the Atlantic Ocean, Great Marshes, Scorton Creek, Great Island Creek, Boat Cove Creek, Smith Creek, Spring Creek, Long Creek, Scorton Harbor, Mill Pond, Garretts Pond, Nye Pond, Hoxie Pond, Hinckley Pond.
