Reader E-Mail: Catching a 42-pounder in Cape Cod Bay

by Will Beardsley

Bruce Beardsley had tired of the 30-40+ mile trips to the Hooter and Bonito Bar in search of bonito and false albacore. Though he had a couple of successful days, it had been a season of a lot of miles and hard work for little reward.

Having never made the trek through the Canal for fishing, he resolved to make the trip and try Cape Cod Bay for a shot at some stripers. Armed with some advice from the online fishing community, he set off last Friday [September 6th].

Arriving at the east end of the Canal just in time for a great sunrise, he tried trolling wire-line with a tube and also a jig. From Scorton to Sandy Neck and back he trolled, and other than getting hung-up (ghost trap?), lots of fish marking and the occasional weed, he felt no excitement. At least the scenery was nice and seas were easy.

After 5-plus hours, he decided to give it 15 more minutes before heading home. While the clock ticked-down, he started a “no-joy” fishing report back to his advisors. Just as he acknowledged his defeat, the rod with the tube and (fake) worm started dumping line at a great rate. He dropped the phone, throttled-back and commenced the fight.

It felt like a very good fish. With the gaff stored safely in the cabin and not wanting to lose the fish, Bruce planned a Boga Grip landing as he was hoping for his first bass of the season. As the fish came in and up to the surface, it was clear that it was a huge fish. He leadered the fish in, and tried for a lower-lip grab, but the Boga could not reach! As the fish came around a second time, the Boga gripped around the lower side lip. Bruce hoped the hold was solid as he heaved the fish over the gunnel. With a heavy flop and Bruce’s broad smile, the striper was safely on deck.

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