2 Methods Use...1 Was Very Productive!

At 5 am Capt. Chuck Fisher and I were on the way down to Deale, MD. During the drive we discussed the areas where we were going to take Capt. Chuck’s clients who wanted to troll for trophy rockfish.

That probably sounded a little odd…Tom Hughes trolling, but I enjoy being on the Bay with Capt. Chuck and trolling is one of his specialties. I’m still on R&R from guiding on the Susquehanna Flats until early this month, but after today’s catch the R&R is over.

Catching started out slow and stayed that way until we were headed back to Deale. The water temperature throughout the day was between 64.2 to 66.4 degrees. There was a 12 rod spread put out with parachutes, tantrum rigs, and even a hose. We did have action during the trolling section of this trip, but no keeper size fish came aboard.

We were moving along swiftly in Capt. Chuck’s catamaran back to the barn, when in 30’ of water some large striped bass came to the top chasing bait. Capt. Chuck was still saying, “get the light tackle”, as I was ripping the rods from the holders located in the front cabin.

The next 2 hours was pure pleasure, watching 6 anglers, hook into countless striped bass in the 6 to 10 pound class. The largest boarded was a 30” striper, but not the most exciting. I was standing next to a 14 year old angler, giving him instructions on how to keep a tight line, while the spoon was returning to the bottom. Then all of a sudden, the rod doubled over. After a 15 minute fight on 12# monofilament, a 38 to 40 inch class striped bass came to the top, did two completes rolls, shook its head, then calmly swam away. The youngster’s face beamed with excitement for the rest of the day.

I hope seeing all these quality size striped bass now in the middle Chesapeake Bay means the start of the upcoming summer season. The most productive lure was a silver or gold Hopkins Shorty spoon with a single hook attached.

Fishing Tips:
Start out the fishing season safely by wearing a PFD…each time you go out.

Keep a rooming eye on the water at all times when you’re fishing…from start to finish. It could make the difference between a non-productive and a productive fishing trip. Whatever method you use carry along some light tackle made up and ready to cast and catch striped bass immediately.

Tight Lines,