As of January 24, 2025, the fishing scene at the Cape Cod Canal is quite promising despite the chilly weather. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.
### Weather and Tidal Report
The temperatures are expected to remain in the teens, so dress warmly. Sunrise is at around 7:05 AM, and sunset will be at about 4:30 PM. Tides are crucial for fishing the Canal; today, the high tide is at 9:15 AM and the low tide at 3:15 PM. Understanding the tidal flow is key, as striped bass tend to move into the east end of the Canal when the tide is running west and back out into the bay when it switches[3].
### Fish Activity
Despite the cold, fish activity has been robust. Striped bass, cod, haddock, bluefish, and even some tuna have been active in the area. Yesterday, anglers reported catching several striped bass, with some reaching up to 40 inches in length. The smaller bass are abundant, but with persistence, you can land some larger ones[3][5].
### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass and bluefish, topwater spooks, Magic Swimmers, and sand eel lures have been highly effective. If you prefer bait, white or green mackerel jigs and live bait like mackerel or squid can yield good results. Pencil poppers and paddletails in white and pink are also working well due to the presence of smaller squid and schools of peanut bunker in the Canal[3][5].
### Hot Spots
Some of the best spots to fish include the Buzzards Bay Recreation Area, Bourne Scenic Park, and the Scussett Beach Fish Pier. The area around the Stone Church has also seen significant activity, with larger bass being caught near the bridges and rocky ledges. The Tidal Flats Recreation Area and the Midway Recreation Area are also worth checking out[2][5].
### Additional Tips
Make sure to wear studded boots for better traction on the rocks and consider a fish gripper to handle your catch safely. Given the cold weather, it’s essential to be cautious and possibly fish with a friend.
With the right gear and knowledge of the tides, you should have a productive day fishing at the Cape Cod Canal. Stay warm and tight lines