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Landed a Striped Bass Offshore in Barnstable
Striped Bass Fishing in Barnstable, MA
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The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) is a prized gamefish of the Moronidae family and a member of the Perciformes order. Known for its distinctive dark horizontal stripes and powerful fighting ability, these fish are highly sought after by anglers along the East Coast. In Barnstable Harbor, Striped Bass typically range from 20-55 inches in length and can weigh anywhere from 10 to over 80 pounds. Their seasonal migration patterns make Cape Cod a hotspot for Striper fishing during summer months. - Striped Bass are found in various habitats including rivers, lakes, onshore, and near shore areas. - They're known for their strong runs and powerful fights when hooked. - Cape Cod's unique geography creates ideal feeding grounds for these fish.
Fishing Charter by Captain Jarred Bolduc in August
Meet your Captain Jarred Bolduc
- Annie Bee Sportfishing is the charter for you!
Summary
Join Captain Jarred Bolduc for an exciting Fishing Charter in Barnstable, MA this Tuesday July. Our 4-hour inshore fishing adventure with Annie Bee Sportfishing offers non-stop action as we target the prized Striped Bass in Cape Cod's rich waters. Whether you're looking for bottom fishing, trolling, or jigging techniques, we've got you covered with all equipment provided. Departing from Barnstable Harbor, we'll navigate to the most productive fishing grounds where Stripers are known to feed. Perfect for anglers of all skill levels, our private charters accommodate up to 5 guests, ensuring a personalized experience as you learn local fishing techniques and potentially land your personal best catch.
Fishing Charter with Jarred Bolduc – Rates & Booking
Captain Jarred of Annie Bee Sportfishing on Tuesday July offers an exciting 4-Hour Inshore Fishing Adventure targeting Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Black Sea Bass, Bonito, and Mackerel. This half-day charter provides ample time to experience Cape Cod's legendary fishing grounds. All necessary fishing equipment is provided, so you can just focus on enjoying the experience. With a maximum capacity of 5 guests, you'll get the personalized attention needed for a successful day on the water. Most trips start between 7:00 am and 9:00 AM, but please contact Captain Jarred to confirm before booking your adventure.
Highlights of Half Day Fishing Trip On Cape Cod - Mackerel, Bass And More
Experience non-stop bites all day long while fishing the productive waters off Cape Cod. Our trip from Barnstable Harbor gives you access to some of the best Striped Bass fishing grounds in Massachusetts. Using various techniques including bottom fishing, trolling, and jigging, we'll maximize your chances of hooking into quality fish.
Captain Jarred's intimate knowledge of local waters ensures you'll be fishing the most productive spots based on tide, weather, and seasonal patterns. The 22-inch Striped Bass caught during our recent outing is just a sample of what you might land. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, this half-day trip offers the perfect balance of instruction, action, and enjoyment on Cape Cod Bay.
Local Species Insights: Striped Bass
Striped Bass are the crown jewel of Cape Cod fishing, and Barnstable Harbor offers some of the best opportunities to catch them. These powerful fish are known for their strong fights and can be found around structure, drop-offs, and along sandy shorelines throughout the summer months. In July, Stripers typically feed more actively during early morning and evening hours, making our morning departures perfectly timed.
When targeting Striped Bass in Barnstable waters, we employ multiple techniques including trolling tube and worm rigs, casting soft plastics along structure, and live-lining mackerel when available. The thrill of feeling a Striper strike and the ensuing battle makes them one of the most sought-after gamefish in the Northeast. Their predictable seasonal patterns make Cape Cod a prime destination for anglers looking to experience world-class Striped Bass fishing.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Annie Bee Sportfishing provides everything you need for a comfortable and productive day on the water. Our well-equipped vessel comfortably accommodates up to 5 guests with all necessary fishing gear included. We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, a light jacket (even on warm days), and any preferred snacks or drinks. Wear non-marking, non-slip footwear for safety on the boat.
Most trips depart Barnstable Harbor between 7:00-9:00 AM, allowing us to take advantage of peak fishing times. The harbor is easily accessible with convenient parking nearby. Remember to arrive about 15 minutes early so we can get underway promptly and maximize your fishing time. Weather conditions are closely monitored for your safety, and Captain Jarred will contact you if any adjustments are needed.
Fishing in Cape Cod: Striped Bass
The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis), belonging to the Moronidae family and Perciformes order, is one of the most coveted gamefish along the East Coast. Distinguished by its seven to eight dark horizontal stripes running along a silvery-white body, this powerful fish is a favorite target for anglers in Barnstable waters this July when they're actively feeding in Cape Cod Bay.
Striped Bass Overview
Striped Bass are anadromous fish that can thrive in both freshwater and saltwater environments. They're known for their strength, fighting ability, and delicious taste, making them a premier sportfish that attracts anglers from across the country to Cape Cod's productive waters. These fish are not only popular for recreational fishing but have significant cultural and economic importance along the Atlantic coast.
Striped Bass Habitat and Distribution
Striped Bass inhabit a variety of environments including rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters. In Barnstable, they're commonly found around structure such as jetties, rocky shorelines, sandbars, and drop-offs. During summer months, they frequently patrol Cape Cod Bay looking for baitfish, making them accessible to both shore and boat anglers. Their seasonal migrations follow water temperature preferences and baitfish movements.
Striped Bass Size and Weight
These impressive fish typically measure between 20 and 55 inches in length, with weights ranging from 10 to 81 pounds. Trophy specimens in Cape Cod waters can exceed 40 inches and 30 pounds, providing anglers with memorable battles. The Massachusetts state record exceeds 70 pounds, showing the potential for truly massive fish in local waters.
Striped Bass Diet and Behavior
Stripers are opportunistic predators with a diverse diet including herring, mackerel, menhaden, squid, crabs, and various baitfish. They often feed aggressively during tide changes, dawn, and dusk. In Barnstable Harbor, they frequently chase schools of bait near structures and channels. Their feeding behavior changes seasonally, with more active periods during spring and fall migrations.
Striped Bass Spawning Season
Striped Bass typically spawn in freshwater rivers in spring when water temperatures reach 60-70°F. After spawning, adult fish move to coastal waters for summer feeding, which is why July is an excellent time to target them in Barnstable. Most Cape Cod Stripers originate from the Chesapeake Bay or Hudson River spawning grounds before migrating north for summer feeding.
Striped Bass Fishing Techniques
Several techniques prove effective for Barnstable's Striped Bass. Trolling tube and worm rigs along drop-offs and channels is a local favorite, particularly during morning hours. Casting soft plastic jigs or swimming plugs around structure during moving tides can trigger aggressive strikes. Live-lining mackerel, herring, or eels presents natural baits that big bass find irresistible. In July, Barnstable anglers often find success targeting bass feeding on sand eels in shallower water during early morning and evening hours.
Striped Bass Is It Good to Eat?
Striped Bass is widely regarded as excellent table fare with firm, white, flaky meat that has a mild flavor. It's versatile for cooking—whether grilled, baked, or broiled—and holds up well to various seasonings. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, it's also nutritionally valuable. However, anglers should be aware of local consumption advisories and size regulations, as larger specimens may contain higher mercury levels.
Striped Bass Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Striped Bass?
A: Live or fresh baits like mackerel, herring, eels, and menhaden are extremely effective. In Barnstable Harbor, fresh chunk mackerel often outperforms artificial lures, especially for larger bass. During July, sand eels and small baitfish imitations also work well in the early morning.
Q: Where can I find Striped Bass near Barnstable?
A: Productive spots include the channel edges of Barnstable Harbor, nearby sandbars during moving tides, the flats north of Sandy Neck, and structure around Horseshoe Shoal. Tidal rips and areas where currents converge often hold feeding fish during summer months.
Q: Is Striped Bass good to eat?
A: Yes, Striped Bass is considered excellent eating with a mild, sweet flavor and medium-firm texture. It's versatile for various cooking methods and rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Just be sure to follow Massachusetts size and bag limits when harvesting.
Q: When is the best time to catch Striped Bass?
A: In Barnstable, the prime season runs from late May through October, with July and August offering consistent action. The best daily times are typically dawn, dusk, and during tide changes when bass feed most actively. Night fishing can also be productive during summer months when water temperatures peak.
Q: What size Striped Bass can I keep in Massachusetts?
A: Massachusetts regulations typically specify a slot limit where only fish within a certain size range may be kept. Always check the latest regulations before your trip as these rules change periodically to protect the fishery.
Q: What tackle should I use for Striped Bass?
A: Medium to medium-heavy spinning or conventional tackle with 20-30 pound test line works well for most Barnstable Bass fishing. 7-8 foot rods provide good casting distance and fighting power for the average 20-40 inch fish commonly caught in Cape Cod waters.
