Episodes

  • 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
  • Autumn Angling on the Charles: A Fishing Report for October 27, 2024

    Autumn Angling on the Charles: A Fishing Report for October 27, 2024
    Oct 27 2024
    As of October 27, 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 Report
    The tide is expected to be high around 8:30 AM and low at 2:30 PM, with moderate tidal currents. The weather is forecasted to be partly cloudy with mild temperatures, making it a perfect day for fishing. Sunrise is at 7:05 AM, and sunset will be at 5:34 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Yesterday saw a good amount of fish activity, particularly in the early morning and evening hours. Striped bass, bluefish, and even some inshore sharks were active, taking advantage of the transitioning seasons.

    ### Catch Report
    Anglers reported catching several striped bass, with some respectable catches in the 32-36 inch range. Bluefish were also plentiful, and there were reports of crappie moving in closer to downed trees and branches in the effluence with the Muddy River. Other species like largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and black crappie were also caught.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, soft-plastic baits such as creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on weighted hooks worked well. Topwater baits were effective in the evenings near shoreline structures. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits were successful near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs performed better along the bridges and pilings. For largemouth bass, topwater baits in the evenings near shoreline structures were recommended.

    ### Hot Spots
    The wider waters of the Lower Basin, especially along the bridge pilings, are often hot spots for fishing. These areas provide shade and ambush points for feeding fish. Another good spot is among the downed trees and branches in the effluence with the Muddy River, where crappie tend to congregate.

    In summary, the Charles River is in great shape for fishing today. With the right lures and bait, and by targeting the early morning and evening hours, you should have a productive and enjoyable day on the water.
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    3 mins
  • Autumn Fishing on the Charles River: Striped Bass, Bluefish, and Lure Recommendations

    Autumn Fishing on the Charles River: Striped Bass, Bluefish, and Lure Recommendations
    Oct 26 2024
    As of October 26, 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 9:30 AM and the low tide at 3:30 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 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 5:46 PM.

    ### 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.

    ### Catch Reports
    Several anglers reported successful trips near the bridge pilings and deeper waters of the Lower Basin. Some caught over 20 bass and blues using the tube-and-worm method, with many fish exceeding 30 inches. Shore anglers also did well off Point Allerton, Hull Gut, and Wollaston Beach.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, the tube-and-worm rig, particularly the Santini Tuscano tube, has been highly effective when trolled near islands and structure. Trolling Blue Water Candy Rock umbrella rigs has also yielded good results. For those casting from the shore, eels and clams have been working well, especially in the evenings near shoreline structures. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits are effective near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs work better along bridges and pilings.

    ### Hot Spots
    Two hot spots to consider are the areas around the bridge pilings in the Lower Basin and the waters near the "blue building" close to the reserve channel. These areas provide shade and ambush points for feeding fish. Additionally, the waters deep inside East Boston near Constitution Beach have been productive, especially during certain tides.

    Local anglers advise fishing early in the morning before the sun peaks and in the evening unless the sky is overcast. Pay attention to underwater holes and ledges where depths can change abruptly, and avoid areas with algal blooms. With the right gear and knowledge of the river's dynamics, today promises to be a great day for fishing on the Charles River.
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    3 mins
  • Autumn Fishing on the Charles River: Stripers, Blues, and Tidal Conditions for a Successful Day

    Autumn Fishing on the Charles River: Stripers, Blues, and Tidal Conditions for a Successful Day
    Oct 25 2024
    As of October 25, 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 62°F and a gentle breeze out of the northwest. Sunrise was at 6:30 AM, and sunset will be at 6:20 PM.

    ### 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 blues. The presence of abundant bait such as peanut bunker and herring fry has been driving these fish to feed aggressively.

    ### Catch Reports
    Several anglers reported successful trips near the bridge pilings and deeper waters of the Lower Basin. One couple caught over 40 bass and blues using the tube-and-worm method, with all fish exceeding 33 inches. Shore anglers also did well off Point Allerton, Hull Gut, and Wollaston Beach.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, the tube-and-worm rig, particularly the Santini Tuscano tube, has been highly effective when trolled near islands and structure. Trolling Blue Water Candy Rock umbrella rigs has also yielded good results. For those casting from the shore, eels and clams have been working well, especially in the evenings near shoreline structures. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits are effective near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs work better along bridges and pilings.

    ### Hot Spots
    Two hot spots to consider are the areas around the bridge pilings in the Lower Basin and the waters near the "blue building" close to the reserve channel. These areas provide shade and ambush points for feeding fish. Additionally, the waters deep inside East Boston near Constitution Beach have been productive, especially during certain tides.

    ### Tips
    Local anglers advise fishing early in the morning before the sun peaks and in the evening unless the sky is overcast. Pay attention to underwater holes and ledges where depths can change abruptly, and avoid areas with algal blooms. When targeting bass, focus on the structure side of bait balls, as bass tend to herd and ambush prey near islands, ledges, bridges, or shallows.

    With the right gear and knowledge of the river's dynamics, today promises to be a great day for fishing on the Charles River.
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    3 mins