Episodes

  • Fishing the Charles River for Stripers, Bluefish, and More on November 10, 2024

    Fishing the Charles River for Stripers, Bluefish, and More on November 10, 2024
    Nov 10 2024
    If you're planning to head out to the Charles River in Boston today, November 10, 2024, here's what you can expect:

    The tide is expected to be high around 10:30 AM and low at 4:30 PM, with moderate tidal currents that make for ideal fishing conditions, especially in the transition zones. The weather forecast looks promising, with partly cloudy skies and mild temperatures, making it a perfect day to be on the water. Sunrise is at 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at 4:43 PM, giving you ample time for both morning and evening fishing sessions.

    Fish activity in the Charles River remains strong, particularly for striped bass and bluefish. These species have been active, especially during the early morning and late evening hours when the water is cooler. Yesterday saw a good number of stripers caught, ranging from 12 to 25 inches, with some larger fish also reported. In addition to stripers and bluefish, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and yellow perch are also present, though they are less active as the water cools down.

    For striped bass, using resin jigs like Joe Baggs jigs, which sink quickly into the strike zone, have been highly effective. Soft plastics and tube-and-worm setups are also recommended, especially when fishing the edges of eel grass. Live bait such as eels and shiners have proven successful, particularly for night fishing.

    Some of the best spots to try your luck include the areas around the Muddy River effluence, where crappie and bass tend to congregate. The flats near the mouth of the Charles River, where it merges into Boston Harbor, are also productive for stripers. Another hot spot is the area between the Tobin Bridge and the Amelia Earhart Dam, where the tranquil waters have been attracting bass and other species. The bridge and pier pilings in this area are also worth exploring, as they often hold sea perch and other species.

    Remember to stay alert and follow any local health advisories, and enjoy your day on the Charles River.
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    2 mins
  • Fishing the Charles River Boston: Ideal Tides, Weather, and Hot Spots for Striped Bass and Largemouth Bass

    Fishing the Charles River Boston: Ideal Tides, Weather, and Hot Spots for Striped Bass and Largemouth Bass
    Nov 9 2024
    If you're planning to hit the Charles River in Boston today, here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    The tide is expected to be low around 9:30 AM and high at 3:30 PM, which is ideal for targeting fish around structural elements like bridge pilings and docks. Today's weather forecast shows a partly cloudy day with a high of about 58°F (14°C) and a gentle breeze, making it a comfortable day to be out on the water.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at 6:27 AM, and sunset is at 4:24 PM, giving you ample time for both early morning and evening fishing sessions, which are typically the best times to catch fish here.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw decent fish activity, particularly with striped bass and largemouth bass. Striped bass were active in the lower basin, feeding on remaining alewife herring and other baitfish. Largemouth bass were found near shoreline structures and in the lagoons, especially around overhanging branches and downed trees.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching several striped bass, with some reaching up to 20 inches in length. Largemouth bass were also plentiful, with catches ranging from 10 to 15 inches. Chain pickerel, available year-round, were also caught in various spots along the river.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, soft-plastic baits like creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on weighted hooks were effective. Topwater baits worked well for largemouth bass near shoreline structures in the evenings. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits were successful near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs performed better along the bridges and pilings. In deeper waters, spoons and weighted or lipless crankbaits were more effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best spots to fish is the lower basin of the Charles River, particularly around the bridge pilings which provide shade and ambush points for feeding fish. Another hot spot is the lagoons and areas with overhanging branches, where largemouth bass tend to gather.

    Overall, the Charles River is offering a good mix of fish species and favorable conditions for a productive day of fishing. Make sure to check the local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before you head out. Enjoy your day on the water
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Charles River in Late Fall: Explore the Best Spots and Techniques for a Successful Outing

    Fishing the Charles River in Late Fall: Explore the Best Spots and Techniques for a Successful Outing
    Nov 8 2024
    As of November 8, 2024, the Charles River in Boston is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the late fall season. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    The tide is expected to be high around 9:30 AM and low at 3:30 PM, with moderate tidal currents that are ideal for targeting fish in the transition zones. The weather forecast indicates partly cloudy skies with mild temperatures, making it a perfect day for fishing. Sunrise is at 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at 4:43 PM, giving you ample time to fish during the best light conditions.

    Yesterday saw a good amount of fish activity, particularly in the early morning and late evening hours. Anglers reported catching a mix of school-sized striped bass, with some respectable catches in the 32-36 inch range. Bluefish and even some inshore sharks were also active, taking advantage of the abundant bait such as peanut bunker and herring fry.

    For striped bass, soft-plastic baits like creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on a weighted hook are effective. Topwater baits work well in the evenings for largemouth bass near shoreline structures. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits are good near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs are better along the many bridges and pilings. In deeper waters, spoons along with weighted and lipless crankbaits are more effective.

    Hot spots include the wider waters of the Lower Basin, especially along the bridge pilings that provide shade and ambush points for feeding. The area around Pickering Wharf in Salem, although a bit north, has also seen blitzes of shad and mackerel, which can attract striped bass.

    If you're looking for a specific spot within the Charles River, consider the Amelia Earhart Dam through the Shraffts Building, where kayakers have been picking up striped bass using a Santini tube-and-worm setup. Another good spot is near the shoreline structures in the early morning or evening, where topwater baits can be particularly effective.

    Overall, the Charles River is still providing plenty of action for late fall fishing, so grab your gear and take advantage of these favorable conditions.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Vibrant Charles River: Tides, Weather, and Catching Stripers, Bluefish, and Bass

    Fishing the Vibrant Charles River: Tides, Weather, and Catching Stripers, Bluefish, and Bass
    Nov 7 2024
    As of November 7, 2024, the fishing scene in the Charles River, Boston, is quite vibrant despite the transitioning seasons. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal and Weather Report
    Sunrise today is at 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at 5:43 PM, giving you ample time for both morning and evening fishing sessions. The tides are relatively moderate, with high tide expected around 10:30 AM and low tide at 4:30 PM. The weather is forecasted to be partly cloudy with mild temperatures, making it an ideal day for fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity in the Charles River remains strong, especially for striped bass and bluefish. These species are still active, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours when the water is cooler. Yesterday saw a good number of stripers caught, ranging from 12 to 25 inches, with some larger fish also reported.

    ### Types of Fish Caught
    Striped bass and bluefish are the main targets in the Charles River right now. Smallmouth bass and largemouth bass are also present, though they are less active as the water cools down. Crappie and yellow perch can be found in the quieter areas, especially around downed trees and branches in the effluence with the Muddy River.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, eels, Fish Snax Xls, and GT Eels are highly effective, especially during low light conditions. Needlefish plugs, such as the Super Strike and 247 Lures versions, are also favorites among local anglers. For bluefish, gaudy lures like the green/gold Rapala CD18 tend to work well. If you're targeting smallmouth and largemouth bass, old school lures like Al’s Goldfish and Rooster Tails have been successful.

    ### Hot Spots
    Some of the best spots to fish in the Charles River include the areas around the Muddy River effluence, where crappie and bass tend to congregate. The flats near the mouth of the Charles River, where it merges into Boston Harbor, are also productive for stripers. Additionally, the areas around downed trees and branches in the river provide good cover for both bass species.

    Overall, the Charles River offers exciting fishing opportunities even as the seasons change. With the right lures and bait, and by targeting the right spots, you can have a rewarding day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Charles River in Boston's Autumn Bounty

    Fishing the Charles River in Boston's Autumn Bounty
    Nov 3 2024
    As of November 3, 2024, the fishing scene on the Charles River in Boston is still offering some exciting opportunities despite the cooler autumn weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today, the high tide is expected around 10:30 AM, and the low tide will be at 4:30 PM. The weather forecast indicates partly cloudy skies with a high of about 58°F and a gentle breeze out of the northwest. Sunrise was at 6:30 AM, and sunset will be at 5:46 PM, providing ample time for both morning and evening fishing sessions.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been robust, particularly for striped bass and bluefish. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of small, medium, and large striped bass, along with some bluefish. The presence of abundant bait such as peanut bunker and herring fry has been driving these fish to feed aggressively.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, soft-plastic baits like creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on a weighted hook are highly effective. Topwater baits work well in the evenings near shoreline structures, while bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits are good near downed trees. For deeper waters, spoons and weighted or lipless crankbaits are more effective. If you prefer bait, eels and seaworms are still producing results, especially in areas like the bridge pilings and the Lower Basin.

    ### Hot Spots
    The bridge pilings and the deeper waters of the Lower Basin are hot spots right now. Anglers have reported successful trips near these areas, catching over 20 bass and blues. Additionally, the wider waters along the bridge pilings that provide shade and ambush points for feeding fish are often productive.

    ### Additional Tips
    Early morning and late evening hours are the best times to fish, as these periods see the most fish activity. Be sure to navigate the river using a boat or kayak to effectively anchor or troll, and keep an eye out for underwater holes and ledges where depths can change abruptly.

    With the right gear and knowledge of the tides and fish activity, you're set for a promising day on the Charles River. Enjoy your fishing trip
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    3 mins
  • Charles River Fishing in Autumn: Stripers, Pickerel, and More on the Boston Waterfront

    Charles River Fishing in Autumn: Stripers, Pickerel, and More on the Boston Waterfront
    Nov 2 2024
    As of November 2, 2024, the Charles River in Boston is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the cooler autumn weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today, the high tide is expected around 10:30 AM, and the low tide will be at 4:30 PM. The weather forecast indicates partly cloudy skies with a high of about 58°F and a gentle breeze out of the northwest. Sunrise was at 6:54 AM, and sunset will be at 5:43 PM, providing ample time for both morning and evening fishing sessions.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity in the Charles River has been robust, particularly for those targeting striped bass and chain pickerel. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of small, medium, and large striped bass, along with some bluefish. The presence of abundant bait such as peanut bunker and herring fry has been driving these fish to feed aggressively.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, soft-plastic baits like creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on a weighted hook are highly effective. Topwater baits are best used in the evenings for largemouth bass near shoreline structures. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits work well near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs are better used along the many bridges and pilings. For those after largemouth and smallmouth bass, plastic worms or crankbaits in natural colors like green and brown are recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    The wider waters of the Lower Basin, especially along the bridge pilings that provide shade and ambush points for feeding, are often prime spots. The area where the Charles River meets the Muddy River, with its downed trees and branches, is also a good place to find crappie and other species. Another hot spot is near the shoreline structures, particularly in the early morning and late evening when fish are most active.

    Overall, the Charles River is providing a great fishing experience this time of year, with a variety of species available and favorable tidal and weather conditions. Make sure to check the local fishing regulations and enjoy your time on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Ideal Conditions for Fishing the Charles River This Fall

    Ideal Conditions for Fishing the Charles River This Fall
    Nov 1 2024
    If you're planning to hit the Charles River in Boston today, here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today, November 1st, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 65°F and a low of 50°F. The sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 6:04 PM. Tides are crucial, with the high tide expected at 8:17 AM at a height of 10.5 feet, and the low tide at 2:33 PM at 0.3 feet.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for striped bass and bluefish. Anglers reported catching school-sized striped bass, with some specimens reaching up to 45 inches in length. Chain pickerel and largemouth bass were also common catches. The recent drop in water temperatures has pushed these species into their fall patterns, making them more active during the early morning and late evening hours.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, try using soft-plastic baits like creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on a weighted hook. Topwater baits are effective in the evenings for largemouth bass near shoreline structures. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits work well near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs are better along the many bridges and pilings. In deeper waters, spoons and weighted or lipless crankbaits are more effective.

    ### Hot Spots
    The wider waters of the Lower Basin, especially along the bridge pilings that provide shade and ambush points, are often prime spots. Look for areas with abrupt depth changes, such as underwater holes and ledges, where fish tend to congregate. The tranquil surroundings of Needham to the vibrant cityscape of Boston offer a variety of fishing spots, including the picturesque areas near downed trees and rocky structures.

    ### Recent Catches
    Yesterday, anglers caught a mix of striped bass, chain pickerel, and largemouth bass. The presence of alewife herring and river herring fry continues to attract larger fish, making the Charles River a vibrant fishing spot.

    Given the current conditions, it's a great day to be out on the water. Enjoy your fishing trip and take advantage of the early morning and late evening fishing sessions when fish activity is at its peak.
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    3 mins
  • Fishing the Charles River: Stripers, Bass, and Carp Await in Autumn's Changing Tides

    Fishing the Charles River: Stripers, Bass, and Carp Await in Autumn's Changing Tides
    Oct 31 2024
    As of October 31, 2024, the Charles River in Boston is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the transitioning seasons. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Tidal and Weather Report
    Today, the sunrise is at 6:23 AM, and the sunset will be at 4:31 PM. The tides are relatively favorable, with high tide at 8:58 AM and low tide at 3:04 PM. The weather forecast indicates partly cloudy skies with a high of around 58°F and a gentle breeze.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday's fishing report from the Charles River indicated a good catch of striped bass, largemouth bass, and carp. Striped bass were particularly active, feeding on the arriving schools of baitfish. Crappie are also moving in closer, especially around downed trees and branches in the effluence with the Muddy River.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
    Anglers reported catching a mix of striped bass, largemouth bass, and carp. The striped bass were quite active, and some anglers managed to catch bass into the mid-30” range using seaworms and other lures.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, tube and worm rigs are working well, especially at low light conditions. Mackerel, although less plentiful than before, are still effective when used as bait or trolled in tight to structure. Needlefish plugs and eels are also recommended, particularly for nighttime fishing.

    ### Hot Spots
    Some of the best spots to try your luck include the areas around the Muddy River effluence, where crappie are congregating among downed trees and branches. The upper reaches of the Charles River, especially near the Harvard Bridge and the Esplanade, are known for their good bass fishing. Additionally, the lower sections near the Charles River Dam can yield some nice catches of carp and largemouth bass.

    ### Additional Notes
    Be aware that the Charles River experienced a harmful cyanobacteria bloom recently, so it's crucial to follow any public health advisories and avoid direct contact with the water.

    With the right gear and knowledge of the tides and fish activity, you should have a productive day fishing on the Charles River. Good luck
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    3 mins