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Landed a trophy Striped Bass in Barnstable
Striped Bass Fishing in Barnstable, MA
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The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) is one of Cape Cod's most prized gamefish, drawing anglers from across the country to our waters. These powerful predators can grow to impressive sizes, typically ranging from 20 to 55 inches in length and weighing between 10 and 81 pounds when fully mature. - Striped Bass are known for their distinctive horizontal black stripes running along silvery sides. - They thrive in diverse habitats including rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. - Their adaptability to both freshwater and saltwater environments makes them uniquely versatile.
Fishing Charter by Captain Jarred Bolduc in August
Meet your Captain Jarred Bolduc
- Annie Bee Sportfishing is the charter for you!
Summary
Our Cape Cod fishing charter delivered action-packed results from the moment we left Barnstable Harbor on Sunday July. I took Danielle and crew on my 4-hour inshore fishing adventure, targeting the prized Striped Bass that Cape Cod is known for. With partly cloudy skies creating perfect fishing conditions, we mixed techniques between trolling, jigging, and bottom fishing to maximize our chances. The Striped Bass were eager to bite, resulting in an impressive combined catch of 1190 inches. Barnstable's waters consistently prove why they're a top destination for serious anglers seeking quality inshore fishing. We provided all tackle and expertise, making this trip ideal for both novice and experienced fishermen looking to experience Cape Cod's legendary Bass fishery.
Fishing Charter with Jarred Bolduc – Rates & Booking
Captain Jarred Bolduc of Annie Bee Sportfishing offers Sunday July charters from Barnstable Harbor. My Half Day Fishing Trip runs for four action-packed hours, typically starting between 7:00-9:00 AM (please contact me to confirm start time before booking). This 4-hour adventure gives you plenty of time to target Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Black Sea Bass, Bonito, and Mackerel in Cape Cod Bay's productive waters. My boat comfortably accommodates up to 5 guests, with all quality gear and tackle provided. Just bring your enthusiasm, some snacks, and prepare for an exciting day on the water with a licensed captain who knows these waters intimately. Booking is simple through the reservation link below.
Highlights of Half Day Fishing Trip On Cape Cod - Mackerel, Bass And More
This 4-hour fishing charter delivers consistent Striped Bass action in Barnstable's fertile waters. We'll mix techniques including trolling, jigging, and bottom fishing to maximize your chances of connecting with these hard-fighting gamefish. The partly cloudy summer conditions create perfect fishing scenarios, and I'll share local knowledge that puts us on fish quickly.
What sets this trip apart is our focus on practical fishing instruction tailored to your group's experience level. Whether you're seasoned anglers or complete beginners, you'll learn productive techniques specific to Cape Cod's unique Bass fishery. With all professional gear provided and comfortable accommodations for up to 5 guests, you can focus entirely on the fishing experience without worrying about equipment.
Local Species Insights: Striped Bass
Striped Bass thrive in Barnstable Harbor's nutrient-rich environment, making it one of Cape Cod's premier fishing destinations. These fish prefer structure-oriented habitats where tidal currents concentrate baitfish – exactly what our local waters provide. During summer months, we target them using live bait presentations, particularly effective around channel edges during moving tides.
What makes Barnstable's Striped Bass fishing special is the variety of techniques that produce results. While trolling produces consistent catches, the most exciting action comes from casting jigs or live bait around structure when the tide is running strong. The average catch ranges from 24-36 inches, with trophy specimens exceeding 40 inches not uncommon in our waters. The summer pattern holds strong through July and August, making it the perfect time to book your charter.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Annie Bee Sportfishing provides a comfortable, well-equipped vessel perfect for inshore fishing adventures. We supply all quality rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses needed for your trip. For your comfort, bring sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, non-marking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and any preferred snacks or drinks (no glass containers please).
Our morning trips typically begin between 7:00-9:00 AM from Barnstable Harbor Marina with easy parking nearby. I recommend arriving 15 minutes early to get settled before departure. With capacity for 5 guests, there's plenty of fishing space for everyone. The boat features comfortable seating, safety equipment, and a clean restroom for your convenience. Whether you're planning a family outing or a serious fishing trip with friends, we're ready to deliver a quality Cape Cod fishing experience.
Fishing in Cape Cod: Striped Bass
The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis), commonly called "stripers" or "rockfish" in some regions, belongs to the Moronidae family and Perciformes order. These distinctive fish are immediately recognizable by their seven to eight horizontal black stripes running along silvery sides. In Barnstable waters this July, they represent the crown jewel catch for Cape Cod anglers.
Striped Bass Overview
Striped Bass are anadromous fish that primarily live in saltwater but spawn in freshwater. They're highly prized by recreational anglers for their fighting ability, size potential, and excellent table fare. Commercial fishing for this species is strictly regulated due to population concerns in past decades.
Striped Bass Habitat and Distribution
These adaptable fish inhabit coastal waters from the St. Lawrence River in Canada to the St. Johns River in Florida, with Barnstable's waters representing prime territory. They prefer structure-oriented environments around jetties, rocky shorelines, sandy beaches with breaking surf, and areas with strong current flow. In Cape Cod, they're found around harbor entrances, tidal flats, and deeper channel edges.
Striped Bass Size and Weight
Adult Striped Bass typically measure between 20 and 55 inches in length, weighing anywhere from 10 to 81 pounds. Cape Cod waters regularly produce specimens in the 24-40 inch range, with trophy fish exceeding 40 inches caught each season. The current Massachusetts state record exceeds 70 pounds.
Striped Bass Diet and Behavior
Stripers are voracious predators that feed primarily on baitfish like menhaden, herring, and mackerel, along with crustaceans and squid. They're structure-oriented and often hunt in schools, trapping bait against shorelines or underwater structures. Their feeding behavior is heavily influenced by tidal movement, with peak activity typically occurring during moving tides.
Striped Bass Spawning Season
Striped Bass spawn in freshwater from April through June when water temperatures reach 60-65°F. After spawning, many larger fish migrate to coastal waters like those around Barnstable by early summer. This post-spawn period makes July an excellent time to target them as they actively feed to regain strength.
Striped Bass Fishing Techniques
In Barnstable Harbor, effective techniques include trolling umbrella rigs or tube-and-worm setups along channel edges, casting plugs near structure during moving tides, and drifting live eels or mackerel in deeper holes. Light tackle jigging with soft plastics produces well when fish are holding in 15-30 feet of water. In July, Barnstable anglers find consistent action along the harbor entrance and nearby flats on outgoing tides when water temperatures reach the low 70s.
Striped Bass Is It Good to Eat?
Striped Bass offers excellent table fare with firm, white flesh that has a mild, sweet flavor. It's versatile in preparation—perfect for grilling, baking, or broiling. The meat is high in protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. However, be aware of local consumption advisories as larger specimens can accumulate contaminants in some areas.
Striped Bass Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Striped Bass around Barnstable?
A: Live or fresh mackerel, herring, and eels are top natural baits in Barnstable Harbor. For artificial lures, soft plastic paddle tails, swimming plugs, and tube-and-worm rigs consistently produce good results during summer months.
Q: Where can I find Striped Bass near Barnstable?
A: Barnstable Harbor's entrance, nearby sandy flats, and channel edges are prime locations. The waters around Sandy Neck Beach and the deeper holes inside the harbor also hold fish, especially during moving tides when baitfish are more active.
Q: Is Striped Bass good to eat?
A: Yes, Striped Bass is excellent eating with firm, white meat and a mild, sweet flavor. Smaller to medium-sized fish (24-32 inches) generally offer the best table quality, and the fillets can be prepared in numerous ways.
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 typically coincide with moving tides, especially the first few hours of an outgoing tide when water moves off the flats.
Q: What size rod and reel should I use for Striped Bass?
A: A medium to medium-heavy 7-foot spinning rod paired with a 4000-5000 size reel spooled with 20-30 lb braided line works well for most Barnstable fishing situations. This setup handles fish up to 40+ inches while still providing an enjoyable fight.
Q: Are there size limits for Striped Bass in Massachusetts?
A: Yes, Massachusetts enforces a slot limit where anglers may only keep fish between 28-31 inches, with a one fish daily bag limit. Always check current regulations before your trip as these rules can change.
