Frank G. Dwyer
April 25, 2003
Growing up in Pelham Manor, NY, I received my first fishing rod in sixth grade as a Confirmation present. I had been introduced to fishing the previous year during a week- long trip taken with my schoolmates dubbed as “Outdoor Education”. While that was a freshwater excursion, my sights quickly turned to saltwater as the Long Island Sound was in my backyard.
As a ten year old, my fishing excursions were limited to those places I could get my parents to take me, which usually ended up being the Larchmont Shore Club, where we were members when I was a kid. A typical routine would have me heading to the club for a painful couple of hours of swim team practice, followed by hours of “snapper” bluefish fishing in the Sound.
I clearly remember the excitement I felt with every tug on the line, regardless of the size of the fish. My interest in fishing grew even further one summer day when my rod bent over faster and harder than I had ever felt before. I had seen some of the men fishing the Sound land bigger bluefish, so I thought that I had finally graduated from only catching snapper blues to the bigger variety. However after a fish fight that seemed to go on forever, I was treated to the sight of a strange fish, with stripes running down both sides of it’s streamlined body. This moment, I believe, became engrained in my head, causing the addiction I have today to the sport.
As I grew from pre-teen to teenager, my interest in fishing waned as I became preoccupied with other things that teenagers typically pursue such as; sports, girls, friends and being annoying to my parents. Did I mention girls?
My interest in fishing never really left me completely as I would find myself watching the fishing shows on Saturday and Sunday mornings throughout high school and even while attending college in New Hampshire. Although still busy with my studies and extracurricular activities, an impromptu trip to Martha’s Vineyard towards the end of my college years brought fishing back to the forefront of my mind.
Once I graduated from college and moved to Boston, I began to research the historic fishing grounds that surrounded my new home. This led to the persistent accumulation of fishing gear that continues to this day and a sometimes one-dimensional train of thought—especially during the height of the saltwater fishing season.
By the way, that rod from sixth grade hangs in my garage today.
***
I’ve heard some rumors over the last week that a few school-sized striped bass have been taken close to the mouth of the Merrimack. I believe this to be just rumor, as it’s still early for our area to normally have fresh fish, and given the tough winter I would not be surprised if the fish arrive just a bit late this year. It appears the majority of those fishing in the Merrimack currently are the seals.
I do however believe the rumors of striped bass being caught way up river to be true, albeit bass that have wintered over in the river. Alewife and Herring have been reported in the area, so it would not surprise me that these holdover fish have become more active.
No reports of Shad yet, but I’d expect them to show up at the Rocks Village bridge in the next week or so.
Cape Cod based anglers have reported a few small bass on the south side of the cape, while Rhode Island and Connecticut fishermen report that fishing continues to improve and become more consistent.
Hopefully with my next column we will have entered into the excellent spring fishing our area has to offer.
***
Ryan at Captain’s Lady Fishing Parties on Plum Island let me know that they are now running trips daily on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The boat leaves at 7:30 each morning.
Fishing has been picking up with Cod up to 22 pounds being taken as well as Haddock in the eight-pound range. As the weather gets better, it’s not a bad idea to call and make a reservation. (978.462.3141)
***
Trout fishing in the area seems to be picking up with reports of trout landings from many of the local waters. Trout have been caught at both Bald Pate Pond and Styles Pond in Boxford, as well as Pentucket Pond in Georgetown.
In addition, Lake Saltonstall and Lake Pentucket in Haverhill and Berry Pond in North Andover all received a fresh stocking of trout recently.
A variety of lures and methods have been reportedly working, including small Mepps lures, Berkley Power Bait, meal worms as well as trolling large wobbling blades behind a rigged worm.
April 25, 2003
April 5, 2003
Hearings coming up on Massachusetts Striped Bass Regulations
Frank G. Dwyer
April 5, 2003
In my last column, I wrote about the proposed changes to the New Hampshire and Massachusetts recreational striped bass limits. I spoke to Doug Grout at the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department to get an update, and the proposal to change the limits was approved and will go into effect sometime this coming May. The new limits will change the recreational striped bass limit from one fish a day measuring 28 inches and above to two fish a day above 28 inches, only one of which can be over 40 inches.
Massachusetts still has a proposal on the table to change the striped bass limits from one fish per day to two, however as mentioned in my last column, public hearings are slated for April 14th in Gloucester, April 16 in Sandwich and April 17th in Braintree. At these hearings, the Department of Marine Fisheries will accept comments on the proposed changes and on alternative minimum sizes. The hearings on the 14th and 17th will be from 7pm-10pm and the April 16th hearing will run from 6:30pm-10pm.
***
Speaking of New Hampshire, the state offers a “Lets go Fishing” program that is part of the New Hampshire Fish & Game Department's Aquatic Resources Education Program. The program offers a variety of courses at locations statewide covering a range of topics including Introductory Fishing and Saltwater Fly-Fishing classes and much more. The courses are not limited to New Hampshire residents, so Daily Newsreaders in Massachusetts can take part in the program and best of all, the courses are free.
The courses offered cover the basics of certain types of fishing including equipment, techniques and safety, but also offer instruction on fish ecology, conservation and responsible outdoor behavior. Most courses are offered in the spring and summer, plus in January and February ice fishing classes are offered. A typical class includes 6 hours of hands-on instruction and includes a field trip. Classes are offered for adults and children eight and older, but an adult must accompany children. The first class scheduled is a spring fly fishing weekend currently scheduled for May 3rd and 4th.
If you would like further information, you can call the N.H. Fish and Game Department's Aquatic Resources Education Program at (603) 271-3212, or send an email to aquatic-ed@wildlife.state.nh.us. In addition, a very detailed website is available at www.wildlife.state.nh.us/fishing/lets_go_fishing.htm
***
The New England Saltwater Fly Rodders is an organization of about 140 fishing enthusiasts who meet monthly from October to May and meet on the water during the prime fishing season. The general purpose of the organization is to provide a non-competitive environment in which members can share and learn from each other.
The club sponsors a variety of programs throughout the year and trips which facilitate information sharing among its members. During the regular club meetings, guest speakers present on a wide variety of fly-fishing related topics including technique, equipment, fishing related destinations, fly tying, safety and conservation. The club includes fly-fishers of all experience levels as well as published authorities on saltwater fly-fishing, including fishing guides and fly tiers.
The next monthly meeting will be on Tuesday, April 8th at 6:30 P.M. at Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill, just off Route 495. The meeting will feature ``Chart Night'', which has been quite a success in the past. Local experts will be on hand with nautical charts covering their areas of expertise. In addition, there will be a section on fly line rigging, knots and setups as well as a discussion on fly-fishing saltwater estuaries from a float tube.
They will answer questions about water access, parking, technique, seasonal patterns and hot flies. All meetings are open to the public and admission is $10 for non-members, which can be applied to the club dues if the attendee signs up at that meeting. For additional information, contact Tom Sheehy at 978-367-6284 or via e-mail at tom_sheehy@hotmail.com
***
The local fishing scene is slowly awakening from the long winter. Reports have the herring running in southeastern Massachusetts, which means the first striped bass of the season will soon be arriving. The alewife count in the Parker River is also upcoming, another clear signal of springs arrival. Sporadic reports of sluggish trout being taken from local waters are beginning to trickle in.
Kay at Surfland Bait and Tackle on Plum Island is currently back on a seven day a week schedule and is the definitive place for local fishing information. The store opens at 8am on weekdays and at 6am beginning this weekend. As is usual at this time of year, rumors of cod caught from the beach persist, however neither Kay nor anyone else I spoke to can confirm this annual rumor. If you are so inclined, try a fresh clam off the beach at night.
When I placed a call to Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island on Tuesday, they were preparing to get one of their boats in the water. Weather permitting, full day trips will begin this weekend with the boat leaving the dock at 7:30 A.M. in search of cod and haddock.
April 5, 2003
In my last column, I wrote about the proposed changes to the New Hampshire and Massachusetts recreational striped bass limits. I spoke to Doug Grout at the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department to get an update, and the proposal to change the limits was approved and will go into effect sometime this coming May. The new limits will change the recreational striped bass limit from one fish a day measuring 28 inches and above to two fish a day above 28 inches, only one of which can be over 40 inches.
Massachusetts still has a proposal on the table to change the striped bass limits from one fish per day to two, however as mentioned in my last column, public hearings are slated for April 14th in Gloucester, April 16 in Sandwich and April 17th in Braintree. At these hearings, the Department of Marine Fisheries will accept comments on the proposed changes and on alternative minimum sizes. The hearings on the 14th and 17th will be from 7pm-10pm and the April 16th hearing will run from 6:30pm-10pm.
***
Speaking of New Hampshire, the state offers a “Lets go Fishing” program that is part of the New Hampshire Fish & Game Department's Aquatic Resources Education Program. The program offers a variety of courses at locations statewide covering a range of topics including Introductory Fishing and Saltwater Fly-Fishing classes and much more. The courses are not limited to New Hampshire residents, so Daily Newsreaders in Massachusetts can take part in the program and best of all, the courses are free.
The courses offered cover the basics of certain types of fishing including equipment, techniques and safety, but also offer instruction on fish ecology, conservation and responsible outdoor behavior. Most courses are offered in the spring and summer, plus in January and February ice fishing classes are offered. A typical class includes 6 hours of hands-on instruction and includes a field trip. Classes are offered for adults and children eight and older, but an adult must accompany children. The first class scheduled is a spring fly fishing weekend currently scheduled for May 3rd and 4th.
If you would like further information, you can call the N.H. Fish and Game Department's Aquatic Resources Education Program at (603) 271-3212, or send an email to aquatic-ed@wildlife.state.nh.us. In addition, a very detailed website is available at www.wildlife.state.nh.us/fishing/lets_go_fishing.htm
***
The New England Saltwater Fly Rodders is an organization of about 140 fishing enthusiasts who meet monthly from October to May and meet on the water during the prime fishing season. The general purpose of the organization is to provide a non-competitive environment in which members can share and learn from each other.
The club sponsors a variety of programs throughout the year and trips which facilitate information sharing among its members. During the regular club meetings, guest speakers present on a wide variety of fly-fishing related topics including technique, equipment, fishing related destinations, fly tying, safety and conservation. The club includes fly-fishers of all experience levels as well as published authorities on saltwater fly-fishing, including fishing guides and fly tiers.
The next monthly meeting will be on Tuesday, April 8th at 6:30 P.M. at Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill, just off Route 495. The meeting will feature ``Chart Night'', which has been quite a success in the past. Local experts will be on hand with nautical charts covering their areas of expertise. In addition, there will be a section on fly line rigging, knots and setups as well as a discussion on fly-fishing saltwater estuaries from a float tube.
They will answer questions about water access, parking, technique, seasonal patterns and hot flies. All meetings are open to the public and admission is $10 for non-members, which can be applied to the club dues if the attendee signs up at that meeting. For additional information, contact Tom Sheehy at 978-367-6284 or via e-mail at tom_sheehy@hotmail.com
***
The local fishing scene is slowly awakening from the long winter. Reports have the herring running in southeastern Massachusetts, which means the first striped bass of the season will soon be arriving. The alewife count in the Parker River is also upcoming, another clear signal of springs arrival. Sporadic reports of sluggish trout being taken from local waters are beginning to trickle in.
Kay at Surfland Bait and Tackle on Plum Island is currently back on a seven day a week schedule and is the definitive place for local fishing information. The store opens at 8am on weekdays and at 6am beginning this weekend. As is usual at this time of year, rumors of cod caught from the beach persist, however neither Kay nor anyone else I spoke to can confirm this annual rumor. If you are so inclined, try a fresh clam off the beach at night.
When I placed a call to Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island on Tuesday, they were preparing to get one of their boats in the water. Weather permitting, full day trips will begin this weekend with the boat leaving the dock at 7:30 A.M. in search of cod and haddock.
March 13, 2003
Take Heart, Spring is Right Around the Corner
Frank G. Dwyer
March 13, 2003
Spring is now just days away, and it can’t get here quick enough for me. The eternal winter we endured this year is sure to make the first casts of the upcoming fishing season sweeter, and that first catch a stake in the heart of the winter that would not end.
It’s not a bad time to think about taking your equipment out of the corner of the garage or basement and dusting it off. If you’re like me, you probably cleaned your equipment well when it was stored for the winter so a quick spruce up is all that is needed. Now is also a good time to take a look at your tackle and make a list of things that need to be replenished, like hooks, leaders, snap swivels and the like. It’s also a good idea to take a look at all your lures and flies and change out any rusty or dull hooks.
***
Changes to recreational striped bass limits are being proposed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
I spoke to Doug Grout of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and there is a proposal on the table to change the recreational striped bass limit from one fish a day measuring 28 inches and above to two fish a day, only one of which can be over 40 inches. Thus an angler could keep two fish between 28” and 39” or one fish between 28” and 39” and one over 40 inches, essentially creating a “slot limit” regulation. While the public hearings have already taken place, the Public Comment period runs through March 17, allowing those in favor and those opposed to the new limits to voice their opinions. To do so, submit written comments by March 17, 2003, to: comments@wildlife.state.nh.us; or Executive Director, N.H. Fish and Game Department, 2 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301; or fax (603) 271-1438.
After placing a call to Gary Nelson at the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, I learned that the one fish a day of 28 inches or above remains in effect for recreational striped bass anglers. There is however a proposal to change the limit to two fish a day, apparently along the lines of the proposed changes in New Hampshire described earlier. Three public hearings will be held around the state so that interested parties can hear about the proposed changes and voice their opinions. The hearings are tentatively scheduled for April 14th in Gloucester, April 16 in Sandwich and April 17th in Braintree. To confirm dates and times, visit the Division of Marine Fisheries web site at www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dmf or call 617.626.1520
***
You may recall that I’m predominantly a saltwater fisherman, but this winter has prompted me to dig out and prepare my freshwater gear for some early spring trout fishing. Local waters will be stocked in the coming weeks, so it’s a great chance to get in some fishing, even if it doesn’t quite feel like spring. Local trout waters that typically yield good catches include Bald Pate Pond and Styles Pond in Boxford, Pentucket Pond in Georgetown and the Parker River in Newbury/Byfield. You may even hook into a “holdover” striped bass or an elusive sea-run brown trout if the fish gods are with you.
Specifics around trout stockings were released in late February and the numbers of fish stocked might surprise you. Approximately 536,000 trout measuring from 6 to 18 inches will be released this spring around the State. The breakdown equates to 330,000 rainbow trout, 85,000 brown trout, 115,600 brook trout and 4,500 tiger trout. Rounding out the total number of stocked fish are 700 “trophy ” brook, brown and rainbow trout all measuring over 18 inches.
Don’t forget your 2003 freshwater fishing license for which you will pay the state $27.50.
***
The Plum Island Surfcasters continue to meet the third Tuesday of each month at the Newbury Fire Hall. On March 18th, Al Gags of “Gags Lures” will be the featured guest and will present on “Top Water Striper Fishing in the Connecticut River”. Doors open at 6:30 PM.
The Plum Island Surfcasters is a growing club of over 250 recreational fishermen who enjoy all manner of fishing while also spending time on related areas such as conservation, beach access, fishery management and much more. Annual dues are $30.00 and can be paid when attending a meeting for the first time. In addition, information on membership can also be found at http://plumisland.surfcaster.com/ or by writing to the Plum Island Surfcasters, PO Box 364, Newburyport, MA 01950.
March 13, 2003
Spring is now just days away, and it can’t get here quick enough for me. The eternal winter we endured this year is sure to make the first casts of the upcoming fishing season sweeter, and that first catch a stake in the heart of the winter that would not end.
It’s not a bad time to think about taking your equipment out of the corner of the garage or basement and dusting it off. If you’re like me, you probably cleaned your equipment well when it was stored for the winter so a quick spruce up is all that is needed. Now is also a good time to take a look at your tackle and make a list of things that need to be replenished, like hooks, leaders, snap swivels and the like. It’s also a good idea to take a look at all your lures and flies and change out any rusty or dull hooks.
***
Changes to recreational striped bass limits are being proposed in both New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
I spoke to Doug Grout of the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and there is a proposal on the table to change the recreational striped bass limit from one fish a day measuring 28 inches and above to two fish a day, only one of which can be over 40 inches. Thus an angler could keep two fish between 28” and 39” or one fish between 28” and 39” and one over 40 inches, essentially creating a “slot limit” regulation. While the public hearings have already taken place, the Public Comment period runs through March 17, allowing those in favor and those opposed to the new limits to voice their opinions. To do so, submit written comments by March 17, 2003, to: comments@wildlife.state.nh.us; or Executive Director, N.H. Fish and Game Department, 2 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301; or fax (603) 271-1438.
After placing a call to Gary Nelson at the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, I learned that the one fish a day of 28 inches or above remains in effect for recreational striped bass anglers. There is however a proposal to change the limit to two fish a day, apparently along the lines of the proposed changes in New Hampshire described earlier. Three public hearings will be held around the state so that interested parties can hear about the proposed changes and voice their opinions. The hearings are tentatively scheduled for April 14th in Gloucester, April 16 in Sandwich and April 17th in Braintree. To confirm dates and times, visit the Division of Marine Fisheries web site at www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dmf or call 617.626.1520
***
You may recall that I’m predominantly a saltwater fisherman, but this winter has prompted me to dig out and prepare my freshwater gear for some early spring trout fishing. Local waters will be stocked in the coming weeks, so it’s a great chance to get in some fishing, even if it doesn’t quite feel like spring. Local trout waters that typically yield good catches include Bald Pate Pond and Styles Pond in Boxford, Pentucket Pond in Georgetown and the Parker River in Newbury/Byfield. You may even hook into a “holdover” striped bass or an elusive sea-run brown trout if the fish gods are with you.
Specifics around trout stockings were released in late February and the numbers of fish stocked might surprise you. Approximately 536,000 trout measuring from 6 to 18 inches will be released this spring around the State. The breakdown equates to 330,000 rainbow trout, 85,000 brown trout, 115,600 brook trout and 4,500 tiger trout. Rounding out the total number of stocked fish are 700 “trophy ” brook, brown and rainbow trout all measuring over 18 inches.
Don’t forget your 2003 freshwater fishing license for which you will pay the state $27.50.
***
The Plum Island Surfcasters continue to meet the third Tuesday of each month at the Newbury Fire Hall. On March 18th, Al Gags of “Gags Lures” will be the featured guest and will present on “Top Water Striper Fishing in the Connecticut River”. Doors open at 6:30 PM.
The Plum Island Surfcasters is a growing club of over 250 recreational fishermen who enjoy all manner of fishing while also spending time on related areas such as conservation, beach access, fishery management and much more. Annual dues are $30.00 and can be paid when attending a meeting for the first time. In addition, information on membership can also be found at http://plumisland.surfcaster.com/ or by writing to the Plum Island Surfcasters, PO Box 364, Newburyport, MA 01950.
October 31, 2002
Virtual Fishing Anyone?
Frank G. Dwyer
10/31/2002
With fishing season winding down, I thought I’d share some of my favorite fishing sites on the Internet. There are many out there and a search on Google or some such search engine will provide you with thousands of sites, but here are a few that I have found to be informative, educational or just plain fun. Let me extend my apologies in advance to those of you who may not participate in the happenings on the Internet.
Fly Fish Saltwaters.com (www.flyfishsaltwaters.com) : FFSW says its goal is “to provide you, the community members, with a resource that you find informational as well as enjoyable, without burdening you with unnecessary gimmicks and irrelevant advertisements.” There is no fee to join however you need to register to enjoy the entire site, and donations are happily accepted.
The site is devoted primarily to saltwater fly-fishing, but conventional saltwater fishermen are also represented on the site. Besides excellent content on tying flies, fishing techniques, finding a guide, photo’s and tide/weather information, there are several well-trafficked forums devoted to specific topics like boating, electronics and regional fishing reports.
Reel-Time.com (www.reel-time.com): Reel Time bills itself as the Internet Journal of Saltwater Fly-Fishing and while the content is heavy on fly-fishing, all methods of fishing tend to be discussed.
The site has great content on the standard topics like fly-tying, locating guides and regional reports, but also has one of the longest running forums (bulletin board) and a very informative section called “Ask the Guide” where readers submit their questions to expert fishermen on many ranges of topics.
National Data Buoy Center (http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/Maps/Northeast.shtml): This site allows you to see a graphical depiction of the buoys along the New England coast. Each buoy is represented on the map and with a click of the mouse you can get information relevant to that buoy’s location.
Conditions reported include air and sea temperature, wave heights, and wind velocity and direction and sea depth. Links are included for the latest National Weather Service forecasts and even for observations from nearby ships.
ESPN Outdoors (www.espn.go.com/outdoors/): A terrific site from the powerhouse sports broadcaster, this site encompasses so much information that I’m still finding new things. While the site concentrates primarily on fishing and hunting, there is also a comprehensive conservation section, as well as an abundance of outdoor and environmental news.
Saltwater Sportsman (www.saltwatersportsman.com): This is the companion web site to the magazine, thus you only get a few of the current article’s as they still need to sell magazines. That said, the site contains a wealth of information on a wide range of topics. Sections covering fishing, boating, gear/electronics and news provide detailed information on each topic.
You can also see the “Traveling Fisherman” chart that is in each magazine. The chart--which is one of my favorite parts of the magazine-- illustrates the best places to catch the most popular species of fish for that particular month.
Saltwater Sportsman also has an “Animated Knot Series” which provides detailed animation on each step for tying some of the most used fishing knots. Included so far in the series are the Albright Knot, Spider Hitch, Palomar Knot, Dropper Loop, Uni Knot and Clinch Knot. New knots are added monthly.
MassWildlife (www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/dfw_toc.htm): MassWildlife is the official site of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. The site is a must read for resident sportsman as it encompasses all the information needed regarding fishing and hunting regulations in the State.
Special bulletins are updated regularly to alert residents to important information like recent trout stockings and regulation updates or changes. In addition, there are many links to help you to explore our States natural resources. You can even purchase sporting licenses on-line!
Surfcaster.com (www.surfcaster.com): Surfcaster.com says that it is “serving the New England fishing community”, and they do that quite well. The site has a good layout and many, many links to regional fishing information.
Visitors will find up to date weather and tide information as well as links to a variety of topics including fishing books, local fishing organizations and even a directory of fishing guides, shops and government agencies.
Big Mouth Bass (www.shockwave.com/sw/content/bmb3d): This one does not fall under informational or educational, but just silly fun. Available from the Shockwave web site, Big Mouth Bass provides you with a fun way to target the “big one” from your computer screen.
You’ll need to have the Shockwave plug-in installed, and the game is somewhat of a resource hog so you won’t want to play over a dial-up connection or if your using a circa 1995 computer.
10/31/2002
With fishing season winding down, I thought I’d share some of my favorite fishing sites on the Internet. There are many out there and a search on Google or some such search engine will provide you with thousands of sites, but here are a few that I have found to be informative, educational or just plain fun. Let me extend my apologies in advance to those of you who may not participate in the happenings on the Internet.
Fly Fish Saltwaters.com (www.flyfishsaltwaters.com) : FFSW says its goal is “to provide you, the community members, with a resource that you find informational as well as enjoyable, without burdening you with unnecessary gimmicks and irrelevant advertisements.” There is no fee to join however you need to register to enjoy the entire site, and donations are happily accepted.
The site is devoted primarily to saltwater fly-fishing, but conventional saltwater fishermen are also represented on the site. Besides excellent content on tying flies, fishing techniques, finding a guide, photo’s and tide/weather information, there are several well-trafficked forums devoted to specific topics like boating, electronics and regional fishing reports.
Reel-Time.com (www.reel-time.com): Reel Time bills itself as the Internet Journal of Saltwater Fly-Fishing and while the content is heavy on fly-fishing, all methods of fishing tend to be discussed.
The site has great content on the standard topics like fly-tying, locating guides and regional reports, but also has one of the longest running forums (bulletin board) and a very informative section called “Ask the Guide” where readers submit their questions to expert fishermen on many ranges of topics.
National Data Buoy Center (http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/Maps/Northeast.shtml): This site allows you to see a graphical depiction of the buoys along the New England coast. Each buoy is represented on the map and with a click of the mouse you can get information relevant to that buoy’s location.
Conditions reported include air and sea temperature, wave heights, and wind velocity and direction and sea depth. Links are included for the latest National Weather Service forecasts and even for observations from nearby ships.
ESPN Outdoors (www.espn.go.com/outdoors/): A terrific site from the powerhouse sports broadcaster, this site encompasses so much information that I’m still finding new things. While the site concentrates primarily on fishing and hunting, there is also a comprehensive conservation section, as well as an abundance of outdoor and environmental news.
Saltwater Sportsman (www.saltwatersportsman.com): This is the companion web site to the magazine, thus you only get a few of the current article’s as they still need to sell magazines. That said, the site contains a wealth of information on a wide range of topics. Sections covering fishing, boating, gear/electronics and news provide detailed information on each topic.
You can also see the “Traveling Fisherman” chart that is in each magazine. The chart--which is one of my favorite parts of the magazine-- illustrates the best places to catch the most popular species of fish for that particular month.
Saltwater Sportsman also has an “Animated Knot Series” which provides detailed animation on each step for tying some of the most used fishing knots. Included so far in the series are the Albright Knot, Spider Hitch, Palomar Knot, Dropper Loop, Uni Knot and Clinch Knot. New knots are added monthly.
MassWildlife (www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/dfw_toc.htm): MassWildlife is the official site of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. The site is a must read for resident sportsman as it encompasses all the information needed regarding fishing and hunting regulations in the State.
Special bulletins are updated regularly to alert residents to important information like recent trout stockings and regulation updates or changes. In addition, there are many links to help you to explore our States natural resources. You can even purchase sporting licenses on-line!
Surfcaster.com (www.surfcaster.com): Surfcaster.com says that it is “serving the New England fishing community”, and they do that quite well. The site has a good layout and many, many links to regional fishing information.
Visitors will find up to date weather and tide information as well as links to a variety of topics including fishing books, local fishing organizations and even a directory of fishing guides, shops and government agencies.
Big Mouth Bass (www.shockwave.com/sw/content/bmb3d): This one does not fall under informational or educational, but just silly fun. Available from the Shockwave web site, Big Mouth Bass provides you with a fun way to target the “big one” from your computer screen.
You’ll need to have the Shockwave plug-in installed, and the game is somewhat of a resource hog so you won’t want to play over a dial-up connection or if your using a circa 1995 computer.
October 12, 2002
As fishing dwindles, it's time to enjoy Fall
Frank G. Dwyer
October 12, 2002
Saltwater fishing around the port is still active, with reports of abundant schoolie bass in the river and along the beaches. The late season fishing has been much better this year than season’s past, but the migration south has begun, and it’s time to find other activities to fill the fishing void.
Some of the leaves have begun to turn in my backyard, which means farther north the leaves are getting towards their peak brilliance. Our location gives us excellent access to some terrific day hikes to enjoy the colors of the season.
Mount Kearsarge, located in Warren and Wilmot, NH--not far from my alma mater, New England College—has always been one of my favorite mountains to hike. It is the home of both Winslow and Rollins state parks and this 2,937-foot peak is a popular family destination as the trails afford both challenging and less rigorous ascents. For the hiker that reaches the summit there are sweeping views of Sunapee, Ragged and Cardigan Mountains, as well as Mt. Monadnock and Mt. Ascutney. If it is a very clear day, views can extend to the White Mountains, the Green Mountains in Vermont, The Atlantic Ocean and even Boston!
Beyond the views from the top, it is also quite interesting that the summit is quite “bald”, apparently the work of a large glacier that swept over most of New Hampshire over 25,000 years ago. An added bonus is the Fire Lookout tower that is at the summit. In years past, visitors were allowed in the tower, which was quite enjoyable however I’m not sure if this is still the case. I’ve enjoyed hikes in the spring, summer and fall, and all offer tremendous views.
One of the reasons that Kearsarge is so popular with families is the fact that there is a 3-½ mile scenic auto road up the southern slope that is accessed from Rollins State Park in Warner. The ride is quite fabulous, with many “lookouts” along the way. A small parking lot and picnic area greets those who make the drive and it’s a mere ½-mile hike up the Warner trail to the summit from the lot.
While you’re in the area, you may want to stop by the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum in Warner. The museum has an abundance of Indian artifacts and history, mostly from the Abnaki tribe, and will interest both children and adults. The museum is situated at the foot of Mt. Kearsarge in Rollins State Park and is open through Thanksgiving.
There is also an auto road from Winslow State Park in Wilmot that ascends the northwest slope of Mount Kearsarge. Once again, there is a parking and picnic area at the end of the road, and in this case, a bit more challenging 1-mile hike to the summit. The most popular route seems to be to ascend via the Wilmot trail, and to return via the gentler Barlow trail. The trails are well marked and maps are available at the Park.
To get to Rollins State Park, take Route 93 North to Route 89 North. Take exit 8 off of Route 89 and follow the signs to Warner and the Park. If you prefer the longer, more challenging hike that Winslow State Park offers, stay on Route 89 North for another 10 miles or so to exit 10 and follow the signs to the Park.
***
Archery season for deer this year is October 14-November 23 and muzzleloader season is from December 16- December 31. Shotgun season for deer runs from December 2-December 14 in Zones 1-11 and 14. In Zones 12 and 13, the season is from December 2- December 7.
Duck season for the Coastal Zone is October 15-October 26 and November 23-January 18. The fall turkey season runs from October 28-November 2 this year.
There is no hunting on Sunday and all hunting seasons except waterfowl are closed during shotgun deer season. There are many additional regulations required before hunting in Massachusetts, and one should request the MassWildlife Abstracts from the State or by visiting the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife web site at: http://www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/dfwrec.htm#LAWS
***
Trout fishing is picking up again with many area ponds having been recently stocked or in the process of being stocked. Locally, only Stiles and Baldpate Ponds in Boxboro and Saltonstall (Plug) Pond in Haverhill are on the fall stocking schedule.
Many area waters were stocked in the spring, including the Parker and Mill Rivers in Newbury, Pentucket Pond in Georgetown and the Ipswich River in Ipswich.
Don’t forget; you need a fishing license for freshwater fishing. The standard license fee is $27.50 with lower fees available for seniors and children
October 12, 2002
Saltwater fishing around the port is still active, with reports of abundant schoolie bass in the river and along the beaches. The late season fishing has been much better this year than season’s past, but the migration south has begun, and it’s time to find other activities to fill the fishing void.
Some of the leaves have begun to turn in my backyard, which means farther north the leaves are getting towards their peak brilliance. Our location gives us excellent access to some terrific day hikes to enjoy the colors of the season.
Mount Kearsarge, located in Warren and Wilmot, NH--not far from my alma mater, New England College—has always been one of my favorite mountains to hike. It is the home of both Winslow and Rollins state parks and this 2,937-foot peak is a popular family destination as the trails afford both challenging and less rigorous ascents. For the hiker that reaches the summit there are sweeping views of Sunapee, Ragged and Cardigan Mountains, as well as Mt. Monadnock and Mt. Ascutney. If it is a very clear day, views can extend to the White Mountains, the Green Mountains in Vermont, The Atlantic Ocean and even Boston!
Beyond the views from the top, it is also quite interesting that the summit is quite “bald”, apparently the work of a large glacier that swept over most of New Hampshire over 25,000 years ago. An added bonus is the Fire Lookout tower that is at the summit. In years past, visitors were allowed in the tower, which was quite enjoyable however I’m not sure if this is still the case. I’ve enjoyed hikes in the spring, summer and fall, and all offer tremendous views.
One of the reasons that Kearsarge is so popular with families is the fact that there is a 3-½ mile scenic auto road up the southern slope that is accessed from Rollins State Park in Warner. The ride is quite fabulous, with many “lookouts” along the way. A small parking lot and picnic area greets those who make the drive and it’s a mere ½-mile hike up the Warner trail to the summit from the lot.
While you’re in the area, you may want to stop by the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum in Warner. The museum has an abundance of Indian artifacts and history, mostly from the Abnaki tribe, and will interest both children and adults. The museum is situated at the foot of Mt. Kearsarge in Rollins State Park and is open through Thanksgiving.
There is also an auto road from Winslow State Park in Wilmot that ascends the northwest slope of Mount Kearsarge. Once again, there is a parking and picnic area at the end of the road, and in this case, a bit more challenging 1-mile hike to the summit. The most popular route seems to be to ascend via the Wilmot trail, and to return via the gentler Barlow trail. The trails are well marked and maps are available at the Park.
To get to Rollins State Park, take Route 93 North to Route 89 North. Take exit 8 off of Route 89 and follow the signs to Warner and the Park. If you prefer the longer, more challenging hike that Winslow State Park offers, stay on Route 89 North for another 10 miles or so to exit 10 and follow the signs to the Park.
***
Archery season for deer this year is October 14-November 23 and muzzleloader season is from December 16- December 31. Shotgun season for deer runs from December 2-December 14 in Zones 1-11 and 14. In Zones 12 and 13, the season is from December 2- December 7.
Duck season for the Coastal Zone is October 15-October 26 and November 23-January 18. The fall turkey season runs from October 28-November 2 this year.
There is no hunting on Sunday and all hunting seasons except waterfowl are closed during shotgun deer season. There are many additional regulations required before hunting in Massachusetts, and one should request the MassWildlife Abstracts from the State or by visiting the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife web site at: http://www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/dfwrec.htm#LAWS
***
Trout fishing is picking up again with many area ponds having been recently stocked or in the process of being stocked. Locally, only Stiles and Baldpate Ponds in Boxboro and Saltonstall (Plug) Pond in Haverhill are on the fall stocking schedule.
Many area waters were stocked in the spring, including the Parker and Mill Rivers in Newbury, Pentucket Pond in Georgetown and the Ipswich River in Ipswich.
Don’t forget; you need a fishing license for freshwater fishing. The standard license fee is $27.50 with lower fees available for seniors and children
September 11, 2002
Funny fish, Martha’s Vineyard Derby and Fall Migrations
Frank G. Dwyer
September 11, 2002
Although our fishery here on the North Shore is wonderful, this time of year inevitably finds me just a tad envious of our brethren to the south.
Anglers fishing off Cape Cod, the Islands and Rhode Island are now chasing the “funny fish”, as some call the false albacore, bonito and occasional Spanish mackerel that find their way to Massachusetts waters come late summer and fall.
These speedy fish are all known for their ability to put up a tremendous drag peeling fight, as well as their finicky nature, and in the case of the Spanish mackerel and bonito, the tasty meals they offer. Boat anglers typically have the advantage over shore bound fishermen in chasing these fish.
False albacore, bonito and Spanish mackerel travel in pods and tend to chase bait feverishly but sporadically as well. It is common for these fish to be crashing the surface after fleeing bait, only to disappear and resurface ¼ mile from where they were moments ago. Thus, a boat angler can have more mobility while a shore angler needs to walk the beach and hope a pod comes within casting range.
I have had the pleasure of chasing and catching all three of these fish, mostly from the shores of Martha’s Vineyard during the annual Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby that is held there each Fall. Most of my encounters have been with the false albacore, and I am strictly a surf fisherman when it comes to fishing the Derby.
The false albacore typically show up at, or just after first light in a number of shore locations, including East Beach, the Gut at Cape Poge and along the beach on Edgartown Harbor, all on Chappaquiddick. Lures of choice include slim profile metal lures like the Deadly Dick’s and Crippled Herring that imitate the baitfish being chased.
Blind casting from shore has yielded fish for me before when none were evident, however it’s not unusual to see the fish you are casting to. Another signal of possible action to come is seeing other angler’s down the beach fighting fish, since the fish tend to move up and down the beach at a rapid clip.
The typical retrieve used for these fish is quite simple; reel as fast as you can. When I first fished for these fish, I found it quite humorous to look down the shoreline and see all those fishermen cranking on their reels as fast as possible. I thought, “How are the fish going to have a shot at catching that lure?” The question was answered as soon as the thought entered my mind, as I saw two hook-ups and was sold!
It’s not over once you get one hooked. These fish take runs that are akin to tuna. They are quite strong pound for pound, and will fight very hard to get free. You must keep consistent pressure on the line because any slack given will typically grant the fish the freedom it so desires, and will leave you shaking your head, hoping for another shot. My first hook up with a False Albacore lasted about 30 seconds, and then my line went limp. It all happened so fast that I found myself wishing for another shot, which never came until the following year.
If you’ve not experienced the late summer and fall fishing for the so called “funny fish”, head to the Cape, Islands or Rhode Island and seek out some local advice and get yourself into some heart-pounding fishing!
***
Since I mention, the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby, let me just mention that this is an annual event that will be in it’s 57th year when it begins next week. The Derby is steeped in tradition and in the 15 years I’ve known about it, have only missed it once. It is the norm for anglers to go days without sleep in search of that fish that will get them on the daily awards board, or better yet, the overall leader board.
As the name implies, the Derby includes striped bass and bluefish, but also includes false albacore and bonito. There are award categories for both boat and shore fishermen, as well as a fly fishing only category. Awards are offered for adults and juniors, as well as special prize categories. It’s not just for fun, as the grand winner walks away with a brand new 18' Boston Whaler Dauntless with 135XL Mercury Outboard & Trailer.
This year’s Derby runs from 12:01 AM September 18, 2002 until 10:00 PM October 19, 2002. The registration fee is $40 for the All Tackle Division, $15 for the Junior All Tackle Division and $40 for the Fly Fishing Division. For more information, visit www.mvderby.com.
***
Fishing around the Port has picked up considerably over the last two weeks as fish begin to fatten up for their imminent migration south.
Personally, the last two weekends have been very productive for me. The weekend of August 31st found striped bass breaking the surface on both Saturday and Sunday morning. The bass were making their presence known from the Route 1 bridge all the way out towards the mouth of the river. Small plastic and metal lures worked well; as did most of the flies we offered the fish.
This past Sunday, we found no breaking fish inside the mouth of the river so decided to take advantage of the relatively calm seas and head outside the mouth in search of fish. We found breaking fish just outside the river entrance, and it turned out to be a decent pod of stripers and we were able to land a few healthy sub-legal bass.
Once that action died, we cruised south along the beach as far as the Emerson Rocks area of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, finding pods of feisty bluefish along the way. The birds would signal the location of the pod, and we would toss small Atom Poppers into the middle of the action and hold on! The bluefish we found this day were not the ordinary 3-5 pound blues we typically find in our waters, but 10-12 pound fish with lot’s of fight! We found these fish in 30-50 feet of water.
Reports have shore fishing heating up, with the beaches of Salisbury, Newburyport and Newbury all yielding bass within casting range. Anglers using metal lures like Hopkin’s and Kastmaster’s as well as surface plugs all reported success.
Kay Moulton of Surfland Bait and Tackle on Plum Island reports plenty of bass around the island. Big bluefish have been showing at the mouth of the river, as well as along the beaches. Striped Bass have not been as plentiful at the mouth at low tide as in years past, but Kay says the amount of bass inside the river and the big blues at the mouth makes up for it.
The Parker River National Wildlife Reservation is completely open now for both shore and beach buggy anglers. Kay reports that fishermen on the reservation have been fairly consistent in landing keeper-sized bass at night using sea worms and clams as bait. Recent weigh-ins at Surfland include a 21.2lb bass caught by George Dagostino off the Parker River NWR and a 16.2lb striper caught by Mark Mahoney inside the river.
Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island reports good fishing offshore for anglers looking for cod, haddock and pollock. Cod in the 20-pound range are still the norm, with a couple of 26-pound cod taking the pools this week. Good market size haddock and pollock have also been caught this past week. Trips for September are running on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Fishing will continue into October on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
September 11, 2002
Although our fishery here on the North Shore is wonderful, this time of year inevitably finds me just a tad envious of our brethren to the south.
Anglers fishing off Cape Cod, the Islands and Rhode Island are now chasing the “funny fish”, as some call the false albacore, bonito and occasional Spanish mackerel that find their way to Massachusetts waters come late summer and fall.
These speedy fish are all known for their ability to put up a tremendous drag peeling fight, as well as their finicky nature, and in the case of the Spanish mackerel and bonito, the tasty meals they offer. Boat anglers typically have the advantage over shore bound fishermen in chasing these fish.
False albacore, bonito and Spanish mackerel travel in pods and tend to chase bait feverishly but sporadically as well. It is common for these fish to be crashing the surface after fleeing bait, only to disappear and resurface ¼ mile from where they were moments ago. Thus, a boat angler can have more mobility while a shore angler needs to walk the beach and hope a pod comes within casting range.
I have had the pleasure of chasing and catching all three of these fish, mostly from the shores of Martha’s Vineyard during the annual Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby that is held there each Fall. Most of my encounters have been with the false albacore, and I am strictly a surf fisherman when it comes to fishing the Derby.
The false albacore typically show up at, or just after first light in a number of shore locations, including East Beach, the Gut at Cape Poge and along the beach on Edgartown Harbor, all on Chappaquiddick. Lures of choice include slim profile metal lures like the Deadly Dick’s and Crippled Herring that imitate the baitfish being chased.
Blind casting from shore has yielded fish for me before when none were evident, however it’s not unusual to see the fish you are casting to. Another signal of possible action to come is seeing other angler’s down the beach fighting fish, since the fish tend to move up and down the beach at a rapid clip.
The typical retrieve used for these fish is quite simple; reel as fast as you can. When I first fished for these fish, I found it quite humorous to look down the shoreline and see all those fishermen cranking on their reels as fast as possible. I thought, “How are the fish going to have a shot at catching that lure?” The question was answered as soon as the thought entered my mind, as I saw two hook-ups and was sold!
It’s not over once you get one hooked. These fish take runs that are akin to tuna. They are quite strong pound for pound, and will fight very hard to get free. You must keep consistent pressure on the line because any slack given will typically grant the fish the freedom it so desires, and will leave you shaking your head, hoping for another shot. My first hook up with a False Albacore lasted about 30 seconds, and then my line went limp. It all happened so fast that I found myself wishing for another shot, which never came until the following year.
If you’ve not experienced the late summer and fall fishing for the so called “funny fish”, head to the Cape, Islands or Rhode Island and seek out some local advice and get yourself into some heart-pounding fishing!
***
Since I mention, the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby, let me just mention that this is an annual event that will be in it’s 57th year when it begins next week. The Derby is steeped in tradition and in the 15 years I’ve known about it, have only missed it once. It is the norm for anglers to go days without sleep in search of that fish that will get them on the daily awards board, or better yet, the overall leader board.
As the name implies, the Derby includes striped bass and bluefish, but also includes false albacore and bonito. There are award categories for both boat and shore fishermen, as well as a fly fishing only category. Awards are offered for adults and juniors, as well as special prize categories. It’s not just for fun, as the grand winner walks away with a brand new 18' Boston Whaler Dauntless with 135XL Mercury Outboard & Trailer.
This year’s Derby runs from 12:01 AM September 18, 2002 until 10:00 PM October 19, 2002. The registration fee is $40 for the All Tackle Division, $15 for the Junior All Tackle Division and $40 for the Fly Fishing Division. For more information, visit www.mvderby.com.
***
Fishing around the Port has picked up considerably over the last two weeks as fish begin to fatten up for their imminent migration south.
Personally, the last two weekends have been very productive for me. The weekend of August 31st found striped bass breaking the surface on both Saturday and Sunday morning. The bass were making their presence known from the Route 1 bridge all the way out towards the mouth of the river. Small plastic and metal lures worked well; as did most of the flies we offered the fish.
This past Sunday, we found no breaking fish inside the mouth of the river so decided to take advantage of the relatively calm seas and head outside the mouth in search of fish. We found breaking fish just outside the river entrance, and it turned out to be a decent pod of stripers and we were able to land a few healthy sub-legal bass.
Once that action died, we cruised south along the beach as far as the Emerson Rocks area of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, finding pods of feisty bluefish along the way. The birds would signal the location of the pod, and we would toss small Atom Poppers into the middle of the action and hold on! The bluefish we found this day were not the ordinary 3-5 pound blues we typically find in our waters, but 10-12 pound fish with lot’s of fight! We found these fish in 30-50 feet of water.
Reports have shore fishing heating up, with the beaches of Salisbury, Newburyport and Newbury all yielding bass within casting range. Anglers using metal lures like Hopkin’s and Kastmaster’s as well as surface plugs all reported success.
Kay Moulton of Surfland Bait and Tackle on Plum Island reports plenty of bass around the island. Big bluefish have been showing at the mouth of the river, as well as along the beaches. Striped Bass have not been as plentiful at the mouth at low tide as in years past, but Kay says the amount of bass inside the river and the big blues at the mouth makes up for it.
The Parker River National Wildlife Reservation is completely open now for both shore and beach buggy anglers. Kay reports that fishermen on the reservation have been fairly consistent in landing keeper-sized bass at night using sea worms and clams as bait. Recent weigh-ins at Surfland include a 21.2lb bass caught by George Dagostino off the Parker River NWR and a 16.2lb striper caught by Mark Mahoney inside the river.
Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island reports good fishing offshore for anglers looking for cod, haddock and pollock. Cod in the 20-pound range are still the norm, with a couple of 26-pound cod taking the pools this week. Good market size haddock and pollock have also been caught this past week. Trips for September are running on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Fishing will continue into October on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
August 28, 2002
Fishermen Need to Police This Nasty Problem
Frank G. Dwyer
August 28, 2002
On a recent stroll along the sands of Plum Island Point, I could not help but notice the sights. I’m not talking about the majestic, flowing waters of the Merrimack, nor the wonderful views of downtown Newburyport, but the unbelievable amounts of trash discarded on the beach.
The stretch of sand that leads from the Point to the jetty at the entrance of the river was littered with everything from bait containers to underwear. Along what I was hoping would be a pleasant walk, I also saw beer and soda cans, food and food packaging, rotting bait and fish carcasses, condoms and unattended camp fires left burning. Plain and simple, that’s nasty.
I’m not entirely certain of what percentage of this disgraceful situation was caused by fishermen, but I do know that the public’s perception is that almost 100% of the trash was left by fishermen. Think about it for a moment. Mom, Dad, Junior and Rover take a walk at Plum Island Point. They see the shore lined with folks fishing and see trash on the beach as far as their gaze will allow. What conclusion do you think they come to? You got it; fishermen are slobs.
I wish I could tell you that I have a solution for this problem, but I don’t. I do however have a few suggestions.
If you fish, take your trash with you. Better yet, bring a large trash bag with you and pick up some other slobs mess. I started doing this a few years ago, and although I curse the people who left the mess while I’m picking it up, I feel pretty good throwing it in the dumpster.
If you see someone littering, speak up. Guilt them into keeping our beaches clean. As a disclaimer, if the offender looks like the type who might not take kindly to your suggestion or be carrying a weapon, let it go. It’s all about common sense; you’ll get the next slob.
While I’m at, here’s another complaint. I consistently see fishermen, and I use the term extremely loosely, mistreating and mishandling our wonderful striped bass. It’s not uncommon to see these alleged anglers kicking their catch back into the water, or throwing the fish through the air like some twisting Olympic diver. I tend to “educate” these people on the proper handling and release techniques when possible. If you are reading this and you handle your catch this way, stop doing it or find another hobby/sport.
The large majority of time I am proud to be a fisherman and sportsman. There are times however when I am embarrassed to be counted among the fishing community. I will continue to police and educate within the community on my own, and hope that you too will help make us all proud to be called fishermen.
***
It appears that the summer doldrums, while not entirely gone, have started to give way to better fishing. Nobody, me included, likes to think of Autumn’s impending arrival, as we know that not long after, the fishless winter will be upon us. On the other hand, some of the best fishing of the season is still before us.
Recent reports have indicated that fishing on Joppa Flats and the related area has improved over the last two weeks. Anglers drifting from the American Yacht Club mooring area all the way to the Toothpick have reported catching striped bass in health numbers, although most fish were in the 20”-26” range.
Liz at Surfland Bait and Tackle on Plum Island reports that 20 and 22 pound striped bass were weighed in at the shop this past week. Shore anglers; one in the Merrimack and one off the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge caught both fish. One of the young anglers who works in the shop had a good morning of fishing at Plum Island point landing many striped bass, although most were in the 20” range.
Jay Ritter, from Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island reports excellent fishing trips over the last two weeks. Cod to 40 pounds have been caught lately; with an abundance of market size cod caught each trip. Last weekend, several wolfish up to 15 pounds were landed. In addition, lot’s 8-15 pound hake were taken over the past week. Jay reports that the bluefish have been going “berserk” on the ½ day trips, with excellent fishing for all aboard.
The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge has opened for drive-on fishing, with only the south entrance open at this time. Parking Lot 1 remains closed for the piping plovers, while parking lots 4, 5, 6 and 7 are open and offer great shore fishing.
Bluefish activity at the mouth of the Merrimack has tapered off lately with the blues heading for deeper water. Fluke fishing has been fairly consistent in the river.
August 28, 2002
On a recent stroll along the sands of Plum Island Point, I could not help but notice the sights. I’m not talking about the majestic, flowing waters of the Merrimack, nor the wonderful views of downtown Newburyport, but the unbelievable amounts of trash discarded on the beach.
The stretch of sand that leads from the Point to the jetty at the entrance of the river was littered with everything from bait containers to underwear. Along what I was hoping would be a pleasant walk, I also saw beer and soda cans, food and food packaging, rotting bait and fish carcasses, condoms and unattended camp fires left burning. Plain and simple, that’s nasty.
I’m not entirely certain of what percentage of this disgraceful situation was caused by fishermen, but I do know that the public’s perception is that almost 100% of the trash was left by fishermen. Think about it for a moment. Mom, Dad, Junior and Rover take a walk at Plum Island Point. They see the shore lined with folks fishing and see trash on the beach as far as their gaze will allow. What conclusion do you think they come to? You got it; fishermen are slobs.
I wish I could tell you that I have a solution for this problem, but I don’t. I do however have a few suggestions.
If you fish, take your trash with you. Better yet, bring a large trash bag with you and pick up some other slobs mess. I started doing this a few years ago, and although I curse the people who left the mess while I’m picking it up, I feel pretty good throwing it in the dumpster.
If you see someone littering, speak up. Guilt them into keeping our beaches clean. As a disclaimer, if the offender looks like the type who might not take kindly to your suggestion or be carrying a weapon, let it go. It’s all about common sense; you’ll get the next slob.
While I’m at, here’s another complaint. I consistently see fishermen, and I use the term extremely loosely, mistreating and mishandling our wonderful striped bass. It’s not uncommon to see these alleged anglers kicking their catch back into the water, or throwing the fish through the air like some twisting Olympic diver. I tend to “educate” these people on the proper handling and release techniques when possible. If you are reading this and you handle your catch this way, stop doing it or find another hobby/sport.
The large majority of time I am proud to be a fisherman and sportsman. There are times however when I am embarrassed to be counted among the fishing community. I will continue to police and educate within the community on my own, and hope that you too will help make us all proud to be called fishermen.
***
It appears that the summer doldrums, while not entirely gone, have started to give way to better fishing. Nobody, me included, likes to think of Autumn’s impending arrival, as we know that not long after, the fishless winter will be upon us. On the other hand, some of the best fishing of the season is still before us.
Recent reports have indicated that fishing on Joppa Flats and the related area has improved over the last two weeks. Anglers drifting from the American Yacht Club mooring area all the way to the Toothpick have reported catching striped bass in health numbers, although most fish were in the 20”-26” range.
Liz at Surfland Bait and Tackle on Plum Island reports that 20 and 22 pound striped bass were weighed in at the shop this past week. Shore anglers; one in the Merrimack and one off the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge caught both fish. One of the young anglers who works in the shop had a good morning of fishing at Plum Island point landing many striped bass, although most were in the 20” range.
Jay Ritter, from Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island reports excellent fishing trips over the last two weeks. Cod to 40 pounds have been caught lately; with an abundance of market size cod caught each trip. Last weekend, several wolfish up to 15 pounds were landed. In addition, lot’s 8-15 pound hake were taken over the past week. Jay reports that the bluefish have been going “berserk” on the ½ day trips, with excellent fishing for all aboard.
The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge has opened for drive-on fishing, with only the south entrance open at this time. Parking Lot 1 remains closed for the piping plovers, while parking lots 4, 5, 6 and 7 are open and offer great shore fishing.
Bluefish activity at the mouth of the Merrimack has tapered off lately with the blues heading for deeper water. Fluke fishing has been fairly consistent in the river.
August 17, 2002
When it Comes to Fishing, Surfcasting has it All
Frank G. Dwyer
August 17, 2002
There are many methods of fishing, and many who practice just one form or another, becoming somewhat of a purist if you will. You have fly fishermen, boat fishermen and bait fishermen to name just a few. Within these groups, there can be sub-groups, like your catch and release only type of fishermen, or perhaps those that are targeting fish for the table. If I were forced into one type of fishing for the foreseeable future, it would be surfcasting from the beach.
Surfcasting is fishing at its best. I may not be completely objective here, having started fishing as a boy from the beaches of the Long Island Sound, and having rekindled my interest in fishing 15 years ago fishing for monster stripers off the beaches of Martha’s Vineyard. Even so, there is something magical and even primal, in the art of surfcasting.
Without fail, my heart races as any given surfcasting excursion approaches. With adrenaline pumping through my veins, thoughts of large fish and bent rods typically fill my mind as the event approaches. These days, the anticipation typically begins as I leave the downtown Newburyport area in my rear view mirror and make my way down Water Street. Glimpsing Joppa Flats for birds working the water or any other indications of the presence of fish only adds to the now building anticipation.
Crossing over the Plum Island River, the familiar hum of the drawbridge greets me as I get closer to my selected destination. Once again, I survey the waters below the bridge for any signs of a fishy evening to come. Soon, I’m unloading the truck and trudging in the soft sand with rods, sand spikes and tackle bag in tow.
One of two things happens next. Either I calmly set up my gear and begin fishing, or I walk upon actively feeding and visible fish, and fumble nervously to rig up. On several of these occasions when fish were present, Murphy’s Law has been the norm as I suffer any number of difficulties from tangled lines to hooks in the thumb.
More often than not though, the surfcasting experience is one filled with innumerable pleasures. Wading into the surf on a starlit night to cast a line into the vast ocean, I often ponder the wonder of it all. It’s a big ocean, and to think that I’m lucky enough to catch fish more often than not is nothing short of amazing. Just think how much beachfront we have right here along Plum Island and the other surrounding beaches.
Even those evenings when the fish are not cooperative, the surfcasting experience can be a great way to unwind after a busy day in the “real” world. Beyond offering an excellent place for contemplative thought, the beach offers many wildlife shows that can sometimes rival the fishing. Whatever your pleasure, be it casting plugs into the breaking waves, or sending out a baited hook and relaxing in your beach chair, surfcasting has many rewards for the taking.
***
I love summer, but this heat is starting to get to me. It seems it has also gotten to the fish, as finding and catching fish has become more of a chore over the last 10 days.
Bluefish have arrived in more numbers, mostly at the mouth of the Merrimack and along the beachfront. Both shore and boat anglers have reported getting in on the action, with fish in the three to five pound range. Low tide seems to be the best for these toothy fish.
Joppa Flats has produced some fish lately, but more often than not finicky fish are the typical find these days. Large fish have been seen lazing on the flats, ignoring all offerings put in front of them. Time to take inventory of your tackle and dust off some of those lures and flies you have not tried in awhile.
The jetty on Plum Island is attracting more fishermen these days as both the ocean and river facing sides are now accessible via walking along the base in the sand. This may be presenting better fishing opportunities for shore bound anglers but it may also create a false sense of security. The current is still swift, the rocks are still slippery and a rising tide can surprise a fisherman, so be careful.
Parking lot #1 at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island remains closed due to nesting Piping Plovers. Parking lot #5 is now open; joining lots #6 and #7, which remain open.
***
Kay Moulton, purveyor of fine tackle at Plum Island’s Surfland Bait and Tackle reports that there are fish to be had from shore, however many fish have headed for deeper water. Striped bass have been reported offshore at Speckled Apron, along with bluefish in 40 to 50 feet of water.
Closer to shore, Rich Brown landed a 14-pound striper off the beach at the Parker River NWR on August 11, using sea worms. Paige Stokes tallied a 13-pound striped bass while fishing the Merrimack from a boat.
Kay suggests trying the Parker River NWR on the incoming tide with sea worms for bait.
***
Jay and Robert at the Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island report good fishing over the last week. 22 and 16-pound cod won the pools earlier this week and an 18-pound bluefish and 18-pound wolf fish were also caught. Pollock, Haddock and a 175-pound blue dog shark were also caught this week. Captain’s Fishing Parties offers ½ and full day trips as well as night trips.
August 17, 2002
There are many methods of fishing, and many who practice just one form or another, becoming somewhat of a purist if you will. You have fly fishermen, boat fishermen and bait fishermen to name just a few. Within these groups, there can be sub-groups, like your catch and release only type of fishermen, or perhaps those that are targeting fish for the table. If I were forced into one type of fishing for the foreseeable future, it would be surfcasting from the beach.
Surfcasting is fishing at its best. I may not be completely objective here, having started fishing as a boy from the beaches of the Long Island Sound, and having rekindled my interest in fishing 15 years ago fishing for monster stripers off the beaches of Martha’s Vineyard. Even so, there is something magical and even primal, in the art of surfcasting.
Without fail, my heart races as any given surfcasting excursion approaches. With adrenaline pumping through my veins, thoughts of large fish and bent rods typically fill my mind as the event approaches. These days, the anticipation typically begins as I leave the downtown Newburyport area in my rear view mirror and make my way down Water Street. Glimpsing Joppa Flats for birds working the water or any other indications of the presence of fish only adds to the now building anticipation.
Crossing over the Plum Island River, the familiar hum of the drawbridge greets me as I get closer to my selected destination. Once again, I survey the waters below the bridge for any signs of a fishy evening to come. Soon, I’m unloading the truck and trudging in the soft sand with rods, sand spikes and tackle bag in tow.
One of two things happens next. Either I calmly set up my gear and begin fishing, or I walk upon actively feeding and visible fish, and fumble nervously to rig up. On several of these occasions when fish were present, Murphy’s Law has been the norm as I suffer any number of difficulties from tangled lines to hooks in the thumb.
More often than not though, the surfcasting experience is one filled with innumerable pleasures. Wading into the surf on a starlit night to cast a line into the vast ocean, I often ponder the wonder of it all. It’s a big ocean, and to think that I’m lucky enough to catch fish more often than not is nothing short of amazing. Just think how much beachfront we have right here along Plum Island and the other surrounding beaches.
Even those evenings when the fish are not cooperative, the surfcasting experience can be a great way to unwind after a busy day in the “real” world. Beyond offering an excellent place for contemplative thought, the beach offers many wildlife shows that can sometimes rival the fishing. Whatever your pleasure, be it casting plugs into the breaking waves, or sending out a baited hook and relaxing in your beach chair, surfcasting has many rewards for the taking.
***
I love summer, but this heat is starting to get to me. It seems it has also gotten to the fish, as finding and catching fish has become more of a chore over the last 10 days.
Bluefish have arrived in more numbers, mostly at the mouth of the Merrimack and along the beachfront. Both shore and boat anglers have reported getting in on the action, with fish in the three to five pound range. Low tide seems to be the best for these toothy fish.
Joppa Flats has produced some fish lately, but more often than not finicky fish are the typical find these days. Large fish have been seen lazing on the flats, ignoring all offerings put in front of them. Time to take inventory of your tackle and dust off some of those lures and flies you have not tried in awhile.
The jetty on Plum Island is attracting more fishermen these days as both the ocean and river facing sides are now accessible via walking along the base in the sand. This may be presenting better fishing opportunities for shore bound anglers but it may also create a false sense of security. The current is still swift, the rocks are still slippery and a rising tide can surprise a fisherman, so be careful.
Parking lot #1 at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island remains closed due to nesting Piping Plovers. Parking lot #5 is now open; joining lots #6 and #7, which remain open.
***
Kay Moulton, purveyor of fine tackle at Plum Island’s Surfland Bait and Tackle reports that there are fish to be had from shore, however many fish have headed for deeper water. Striped bass have been reported offshore at Speckled Apron, along with bluefish in 40 to 50 feet of water.
Closer to shore, Rich Brown landed a 14-pound striper off the beach at the Parker River NWR on August 11, using sea worms. Paige Stokes tallied a 13-pound striped bass while fishing the Merrimack from a boat.
Kay suggests trying the Parker River NWR on the incoming tide with sea worms for bait.
***
Jay and Robert at the Captain’s Fishing Parties on Plum Island report good fishing over the last week. 22 and 16-pound cod won the pools earlier this week and an 18-pound bluefish and 18-pound wolf fish were also caught. Pollock, Haddock and a 175-pound blue dog shark were also caught this week. Captain’s Fishing Parties offers ½ and full day trips as well as night trips.
August 6, 2002
Looking Back at the One(s) That Got Away
Frank G. Dwyer
August 6, 2002
If you fish, more than likely you have a “one that got away” story. Even if you don’t fish, you have probably had to endure one of these stories in your lifetime. I certainly have some, and in fact I sometimes I feel I have more than my fair share!
This season alone I’ve had three fish on the line that did not make it to the boat. The first fish that escaped my eyes gaze was a striped bass (I assume this since I did not see it all but for a brief flash) that hit a fly I was casting almost as soon as it hit the water. There was a violent surface explosion as the fish inhaled the fly, then made a maddening run, with me struggling to get the fish on the reel. Ten minutes into a terrific battle, the line went slack and I reeled in my line, minus the fly. The leader was broken off, but there was no “pig-tail”, the tell tale sign of a weak knot, therefore I could rationalize in my head that I had lost the fish because of its size and my light leader.
I lost another big fish I hooked on the fly on that same trip, not more than a half-hour after the first lost fish. This one was more painful as I got a very good look at this fish. In fact, I had the fish in my grasp but he shook his head, which banged against the side of the boat and loosened my grip, allowing the full weight of the fish to snap my leader. I’d estimate the striped bass at 35” and perhaps 20 pounds.
Another fish was lost boat-side this year while taking a friend of a friend fishing. This was a particularly painful incident since I was trying to corral the fish that our guest had hooked. We were anchored and using chunk bait since the fish were not cooperating by hitting any of the various lures and flies we had tried earlier in the morning. My guest angler enjoyed the several drag-singing runs that this striper took, and was probably looking forward to a nice picture with his prize. He would have to settle for a mental picture as the fish was hooked perfectly in the corner of the mouth, and upon trying to pull him into the boat, he shook the hook and took off before we could get him out of the water. This was another 20-pound class fish.
A friend of mine from high school was visiting several years ago and I took him fishing on a brisk Spring morning. He still talks about the one that got away that day. We were casting small soft-plastic lures rigged on lead heads just beyond the Ice Breaker in the river. My friend is not an avid fisherman and I was giving him some good natured ribbing about his casting and retrieving techniques when his rod bent over from a tremendous hit from below the waters surface.
The reel began to spin as the line stripped off the reel at a tremendous clip. I assisted my now very excited friend by checking the drag, but it was already screwed down quite tight and I did not want to risk putting too much pressure on the 12lb test line that continued to peel off the reel. We were using fairly light tackle as it was spring and the striped bass had just begun to return to our waters. I was following my typical routines for spring fishing, which dictated light tackle for the small schoolies I was used to encountering this time of year.
My friend continued the back and forth fight with what was still an unknown species, at times questioning me on what my thoughts were. I told him that he was involved in the best fish fight I had ever been witness to on the Merrimack, and that continues to be true to this day. He fought the fish for just about a half-hour, and towards the end the fish did not run quite as much, but seemed to cling to the bottom of the river. My friend made some progress in getting some line back on the reel but as he was pumping and lifting the fish off the bottom, the line snapped and ended what was a terrific fight. I’m haunted to this day by that fish, and can only guess at what it was. 50 pound striper? Atlantic Sturgeon? I don’t know, but I think about it quite often.
There’s really no end to it. That tarpon on Marathon Key. The shark my wife lost off Martha’s Vineyard. A tail dancing marlin off the coast of Cabo San Lucas. While these fish and others may have been the ones that got away, they are treasures that have been caught again and again in my mind.
***
While the fishing may have slowed as we enter what are typically the “doldrums” of summer, striped bass fishing continues to hold up, particularly for bait fishermen. Bluefish are still in the mix as well. The respite from the hot and humid weather a few weeks ago may have helped just as much as this past week’s return of the steamy weather may have hindered the fishing.
Fishing two Saturday mornings ago yielded some excellent striped bass action as I boated (and released) several hearty striped bass with my friend Don. We were anchored just beyond Butler’s Toothpick at the end of the incoming tide. The fish finder was showing larger fish than usual, anywhere from 16-24 feet. Don and I both tallied 4 large fish each, the biggest topping out at 30 inches and just over 15 pounds.
What a difference a week makes. I was back at the same haunts this past weekend, and the fishing was tough! We managed a few small bass, but nothing to write home about. A trip along the oceanfront looking for bluefish yielded no fish.
Joppa Flats was a bit more consistent with the arrival of the cooler weather two weeks ago, with anglers doing well on both outgoing and incoming tide drifts from boats. The areas around the American Yacht Club moorings and Woodbridge Island remain the most productive. Wading anglers have reported the fishing remains slow. Once again, the return of the heat slowed things down. Nighttime fishermen may want to think about the time tested live eel for a change of pace.
The Parker River NWR continues to offer anglers fishable beachfront at parking lots one, six and seven. Surface bluefish activity was reported this past week at parking lot 1 at sunrise. The Emerson Rocks and Sandy Point areas have also produced healthy amounts of fish.
Kay Moulton from Surfalnd Bait and Tackle on Plum Island reports good fishing over the last few weeks. Randy Smith landed a 39.8-pound striper in the wee hours of the morning of July 26. The fish was caught from a boat on a live eel near Joppa Flats. Chris Sterritt caught a 31.3-pound striped bass fishing from shore near the south jetty. Kay reports that bluefish have been arriving in numbers at the mouth of the river, mostly at low tide.
Bluefin tuna reports are starting to crop up and I’ve heard first hand reports of some decent tuna being landed out at Jefferies Ledge. Cod, haddock and pollock fishing has remained strong by all reports.
August 6, 2002
If you fish, more than likely you have a “one that got away” story. Even if you don’t fish, you have probably had to endure one of these stories in your lifetime. I certainly have some, and in fact I sometimes I feel I have more than my fair share!
This season alone I’ve had three fish on the line that did not make it to the boat. The first fish that escaped my eyes gaze was a striped bass (I assume this since I did not see it all but for a brief flash) that hit a fly I was casting almost as soon as it hit the water. There was a violent surface explosion as the fish inhaled the fly, then made a maddening run, with me struggling to get the fish on the reel. Ten minutes into a terrific battle, the line went slack and I reeled in my line, minus the fly. The leader was broken off, but there was no “pig-tail”, the tell tale sign of a weak knot, therefore I could rationalize in my head that I had lost the fish because of its size and my light leader.
I lost another big fish I hooked on the fly on that same trip, not more than a half-hour after the first lost fish. This one was more painful as I got a very good look at this fish. In fact, I had the fish in my grasp but he shook his head, which banged against the side of the boat and loosened my grip, allowing the full weight of the fish to snap my leader. I’d estimate the striped bass at 35” and perhaps 20 pounds.
Another fish was lost boat-side this year while taking a friend of a friend fishing. This was a particularly painful incident since I was trying to corral the fish that our guest had hooked. We were anchored and using chunk bait since the fish were not cooperating by hitting any of the various lures and flies we had tried earlier in the morning. My guest angler enjoyed the several drag-singing runs that this striper took, and was probably looking forward to a nice picture with his prize. He would have to settle for a mental picture as the fish was hooked perfectly in the corner of the mouth, and upon trying to pull him into the boat, he shook the hook and took off before we could get him out of the water. This was another 20-pound class fish.
A friend of mine from high school was visiting several years ago and I took him fishing on a brisk Spring morning. He still talks about the one that got away that day. We were casting small soft-plastic lures rigged on lead heads just beyond the Ice Breaker in the river. My friend is not an avid fisherman and I was giving him some good natured ribbing about his casting and retrieving techniques when his rod bent over from a tremendous hit from below the waters surface.
The reel began to spin as the line stripped off the reel at a tremendous clip. I assisted my now very excited friend by checking the drag, but it was already screwed down quite tight and I did not want to risk putting too much pressure on the 12lb test line that continued to peel off the reel. We were using fairly light tackle as it was spring and the striped bass had just begun to return to our waters. I was following my typical routines for spring fishing, which dictated light tackle for the small schoolies I was used to encountering this time of year.
My friend continued the back and forth fight with what was still an unknown species, at times questioning me on what my thoughts were. I told him that he was involved in the best fish fight I had ever been witness to on the Merrimack, and that continues to be true to this day. He fought the fish for just about a half-hour, and towards the end the fish did not run quite as much, but seemed to cling to the bottom of the river. My friend made some progress in getting some line back on the reel but as he was pumping and lifting the fish off the bottom, the line snapped and ended what was a terrific fight. I’m haunted to this day by that fish, and can only guess at what it was. 50 pound striper? Atlantic Sturgeon? I don’t know, but I think about it quite often.
There’s really no end to it. That tarpon on Marathon Key. The shark my wife lost off Martha’s Vineyard. A tail dancing marlin off the coast of Cabo San Lucas. While these fish and others may have been the ones that got away, they are treasures that have been caught again and again in my mind.
***
While the fishing may have slowed as we enter what are typically the “doldrums” of summer, striped bass fishing continues to hold up, particularly for bait fishermen. Bluefish are still in the mix as well. The respite from the hot and humid weather a few weeks ago may have helped just as much as this past week’s return of the steamy weather may have hindered the fishing.
Fishing two Saturday mornings ago yielded some excellent striped bass action as I boated (and released) several hearty striped bass with my friend Don. We were anchored just beyond Butler’s Toothpick at the end of the incoming tide. The fish finder was showing larger fish than usual, anywhere from 16-24 feet. Don and I both tallied 4 large fish each, the biggest topping out at 30 inches and just over 15 pounds.
What a difference a week makes. I was back at the same haunts this past weekend, and the fishing was tough! We managed a few small bass, but nothing to write home about. A trip along the oceanfront looking for bluefish yielded no fish.
Joppa Flats was a bit more consistent with the arrival of the cooler weather two weeks ago, with anglers doing well on both outgoing and incoming tide drifts from boats. The areas around the American Yacht Club moorings and Woodbridge Island remain the most productive. Wading anglers have reported the fishing remains slow. Once again, the return of the heat slowed things down. Nighttime fishermen may want to think about the time tested live eel for a change of pace.
The Parker River NWR continues to offer anglers fishable beachfront at parking lots one, six and seven. Surface bluefish activity was reported this past week at parking lot 1 at sunrise. The Emerson Rocks and Sandy Point areas have also produced healthy amounts of fish.
Kay Moulton from Surfalnd Bait and Tackle on Plum Island reports good fishing over the last few weeks. Randy Smith landed a 39.8-pound striper in the wee hours of the morning of July 26. The fish was caught from a boat on a live eel near Joppa Flats. Chris Sterritt caught a 31.3-pound striped bass fishing from shore near the south jetty. Kay reports that bluefish have been arriving in numbers at the mouth of the river, mostly at low tide.
Bluefin tuna reports are starting to crop up and I’ve heard first hand reports of some decent tuna being landed out at Jefferies Ledge. Cod, haddock and pollock fishing has remained strong by all reports.
August 1, 2002
Lot’s of Options at Maudslay State Park
Frank G. Dwyer
August 1, 2002
Sometimes our close proximity to the ocean and our wonderful beaches here in Newburyport can make us forget some of the other terrific outdoor activities to be found around town. Maudslay State Park, located on Curzon Mill Road, is one of the gems that make our city great. The park offers a wide variety of activities to visitors on a year-round basis, including both recreational and cultural events for all ages.The Commonwealth purchased the 480-acre park in 1985 from the descendants of E.S. Moseley, a wealthy Boston financier who made a family retreat of the land along the Merrimack River. Besides being a great place for a variety of outdoor activities, the park offers some very dramatic and lush 19th century gardens along with boasting one of the largest naturally occurring strands of Mountain Laurel in the Commonwealth. As I’m no expert on flowers, and I was not entirely certain as to what exactly Mountain Laurel was, I did a touch of research and learned that the Mountain Laurel is the state flower of Connecticut and according to many, the most beautiful of native American shrubs. Its pungent fragrance and the massed richness of its white and pink blossoms so vividly contrast with the darker colors of the forests and the fields that they have continually attracted the attention of travelers since the earliest days, according to the State of Connecticut’s web site.
But I digress. Over the many years that I have lived in Newburyport, I have enjoyed Maudslay in a number of ways. Whether it is taking the dog for a leisurely walk with my family, or mountain biking on the wonderful trails that the park has to offer, I’ve never been disappointed with a visit. There was the one time several years ago that I had a nasty spill on my bike and broke my elbow, but that’s the only negative I have encountered at Maudslay, and it was certainly not the park’s fault.
Many people use the park as a fitness club, either enjoying a run or bike ride through the woods, or some great cross-country skiing in the winter. The large fields of Maudslay also afford themselves to great games of wiffle ball and touch football. In addition, there are 10 miles of horse trails and on any given weekend, many horses can be seen at the park, something my daughter enjoys immensely. The horse trails are shared with the mountain bikers, hikers and runners, so it’s important to pay attention.
Paying attention can have dividends other than avoiding a trail collision. You may see a variety of wildlife on any given visit to the park, including red-tailed hawks, migrating bluebirds, foxes, bald eagles, wild turkeys, deer and perhaps even a coyote. I’m not sure if there are coyotes, but I recently saw one, or a very mangy dog.
In addition to the wildlife you can see in the park, the Department of Environmental Management, the agency that manages the park, offers exciting programs throughout the year related to wildlife. A few weeks ago we were treated to a program which allowed my daughter to get very close to a hawk, snapping turtle, snake and capuchin monkey.
While saltwater fishing remains king in the area, the Merrimack River affords some excellent freshwater fishing as well, allowing an angler a chance at a wide variety of fish including bass, catfish, carp, shad and even the occasional Atlantic salmon. Many of the trails of Maudslay offer tremendous vistas of the Merrimack River from high above, but there is also accessible shoreline to the determined angler.
Seasonally, you can enjoy events at the park like hayrides, horse drawn sleigh rides and Family Day, which takes place at the park as part of Yankee Homecoming. Beyond the recreational and outdoor activities Maudslay offers, the park also has a thriving arts community offering musical and theatrical performances.
The Maudslay Arts Center, which according to their brochure has been described as the “mini-Tanglewood”, is a natural amphitheater allowing audiences to enjoy perfect acoustics and sight lines. If weather is inclement, the performances are moved into a nearby barn. The Center offers Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon concert series throughout the summer with some great jazz, folk and popular music performances. You can pick up a schedule at the park or by calling (978) 499-0050.
If you find yourself with a free afternoon, pay Maudslay State Park a visit and enjoy one of the great parks in Massachusetts. Maudslay State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. There is a restroom adjacent to the ample parking lot off Curzon Mill Road. The phone number for the headquarters at the park is (978) 465-7223.
August 1, 2002
Sometimes our close proximity to the ocean and our wonderful beaches here in Newburyport can make us forget some of the other terrific outdoor activities to be found around town. Maudslay State Park, located on Curzon Mill Road, is one of the gems that make our city great. The park offers a wide variety of activities to visitors on a year-round basis, including both recreational and cultural events for all ages.The Commonwealth purchased the 480-acre park in 1985 from the descendants of E.S. Moseley, a wealthy Boston financier who made a family retreat of the land along the Merrimack River. Besides being a great place for a variety of outdoor activities, the park offers some very dramatic and lush 19th century gardens along with boasting one of the largest naturally occurring strands of Mountain Laurel in the Commonwealth. As I’m no expert on flowers, and I was not entirely certain as to what exactly Mountain Laurel was, I did a touch of research and learned that the Mountain Laurel is the state flower of Connecticut and according to many, the most beautiful of native American shrubs. Its pungent fragrance and the massed richness of its white and pink blossoms so vividly contrast with the darker colors of the forests and the fields that they have continually attracted the attention of travelers since the earliest days, according to the State of Connecticut’s web site.
But I digress. Over the many years that I have lived in Newburyport, I have enjoyed Maudslay in a number of ways. Whether it is taking the dog for a leisurely walk with my family, or mountain biking on the wonderful trails that the park has to offer, I’ve never been disappointed with a visit. There was the one time several years ago that I had a nasty spill on my bike and broke my elbow, but that’s the only negative I have encountered at Maudslay, and it was certainly not the park’s fault.
Many people use the park as a fitness club, either enjoying a run or bike ride through the woods, or some great cross-country skiing in the winter. The large fields of Maudslay also afford themselves to great games of wiffle ball and touch football. In addition, there are 10 miles of horse trails and on any given weekend, many horses can be seen at the park, something my daughter enjoys immensely. The horse trails are shared with the mountain bikers, hikers and runners, so it’s important to pay attention.
Paying attention can have dividends other than avoiding a trail collision. You may see a variety of wildlife on any given visit to the park, including red-tailed hawks, migrating bluebirds, foxes, bald eagles, wild turkeys, deer and perhaps even a coyote. I’m not sure if there are coyotes, but I recently saw one, or a very mangy dog.
In addition to the wildlife you can see in the park, the Department of Environmental Management, the agency that manages the park, offers exciting programs throughout the year related to wildlife. A few weeks ago we were treated to a program which allowed my daughter to get very close to a hawk, snapping turtle, snake and capuchin monkey.
While saltwater fishing remains king in the area, the Merrimack River affords some excellent freshwater fishing as well, allowing an angler a chance at a wide variety of fish including bass, catfish, carp, shad and even the occasional Atlantic salmon. Many of the trails of Maudslay offer tremendous vistas of the Merrimack River from high above, but there is also accessible shoreline to the determined angler.
Seasonally, you can enjoy events at the park like hayrides, horse drawn sleigh rides and Family Day, which takes place at the park as part of Yankee Homecoming. Beyond the recreational and outdoor activities Maudslay offers, the park also has a thriving arts community offering musical and theatrical performances.
The Maudslay Arts Center, which according to their brochure has been described as the “mini-Tanglewood”, is a natural amphitheater allowing audiences to enjoy perfect acoustics and sight lines. If weather is inclement, the performances are moved into a nearby barn. The Center offers Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon concert series throughout the summer with some great jazz, folk and popular music performances. You can pick up a schedule at the park or by calling (978) 499-0050.
If you find yourself with a free afternoon, pay Maudslay State Park a visit and enjoy one of the great parks in Massachusetts. Maudslay State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. There is a restroom adjacent to the ample parking lot off Curzon Mill Road. The phone number for the headquarters at the park is (978) 465-7223.
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