As evidenced by all the photos and reports being sent in to the shop from anglers around the region, the fall run is in full swing and anglers are taking advantage of it. The days are shorter, the water temperatures are finally dropping rapidly, and the fish are definitely on the move.
Much of this fishing has been driven by the always important menhaden. There’s more then a few size ranges along the coast and in certain areas full size adults have fueled simply incredible fall fishing in the past week. Both Newport and South County Rhode Island had visits from the adults and of course the big bass and giant blues that tend to travel with them were nearby. Giant Pencils during the day are great choices for stripers feeding on large baits like these. At night big Bottle Plugs or Dannys are also good options. For flys, Kenney Abrames flatwings that imitate these large baits are the way to go as you can imitate these 12” and larger baits and still actually cast them. Keep a snag hook handy as well.
Koichi Tanaka with a "McKenna style" 9" black sluggo caught fish 
Further North, Jay Cianciolo from Laura Jay Sport Fishing (
Cape Cod Saltwater Fishing Charters for Striped Bass Stripers, Giant Bluefin Tuna, and Stellwagon Bank Cod) reports that the bass are on the move around Provincetown. Jay was out fishing for giant bluefin tuna and reported that “on Sunday's Tuna trip I came around RP on my way out to the grounds and the fish were schooled up big and seriously on the move. Went Tuna Fishing and when we came back inshore in the afternoon the big fish and gannets had already shot down the backside. Lots of schoolies left (and a couple for the grill), but it sure was a sign of the end.” With the Cape Cod Canal being another hot spot this week it’s clearly an indicator that we all need to hit the water now, no matter what the weather is the fishing will end eventually.
Bill Boyes with a nice fish 
Albies and bonito are still around, but most of the activity is from Point Judith and further to the West. There’s scattered schools around Newport and to the East, but if these are the species you’re after there’s better places to look.
Bob Taylor in the high seas 
Blues are still packed into Narragansett Bay and marauding along the South Coast as well. Sizes vary greatly. Be prepared for all sizes. Heavy wire leaders are required for the biggest as they are capable of sawing through lighter wire.
Shore fishing is about as good as it gets, with quality stripers being taken along the entire coast. There have been occasional day time blitzes, in particular where there’s adult bunker. Even up in Narragansett Bay good catches are being reported, but if something truly big is your goal you’ll increase your chances fishing along the Southern shores. Consider using the biggest gear you have right now, more then a few people have hooked fish they simply never saw this week. Heavy leaders, quality terminal tackle and knots, smooth drags, a touch of luck and more are all needed to land big fish reliably.
Max Carpman with a 37 pound fish 
Dress warm if you’re fishing at night. If you haven’t been out recently you’ll be rudely reminded of what fishing in 40 degree air is all about. There have already been a few nights in the 30’s as well. There’s no question though that it’s worth it.
Enjoy the fall!
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