Cape Cod's September Fishing: Albies, Bonito, and Tautog Action

September's arrival has ushered in a dynamic fishing scene across Cape Cod, particularly in areas like Falmouth and Woods Hole. Anglers are reporting a mix of species, with false albacore (albies), bonito, and tautog making notable appearances.

 

Evan at Eastman's Sport and Tackle in Falmouth notes that tracking albies has been challenging this week. Reports indicate catches in shallow waters, sometimes as little as 4 feet deep, in western Nantucket Sound. These albies are often accompanied by bonito and bluefish, with occasional sea bass surfacing. Additionally, albies have been spotted on the north side of Martha's Vineyard, from West Chop eastward, and along the Elizabeth Islands' sound side. However, their feeding patterns are erratic, with quick appearances and disappearances, leading to sporadic catches. Bonito remain abundant near Woods Hole and off the Vineyard's north-facing beaches, offering anglers a good chance of encountering both species. 

 

The striped bass scene is also active. Evan reports increased eel sales, with shore fishermen finding stripers along the south side, while boaters heading down the Elizabeth Islands are encountering larger specimens. Notably, there's been a significant uptick in tautog activity this week. Eastman's has sold a substantial number of crabs and is restocking for the weekend. Most tautog reports come from the Elizabeth Islands and Woods Hole. While the bite starts slowly, chumming with discarded green crab legs effectively stimulates feeding. 

 

The Cape Cod Canal has also seen exciting developments. A recent influx of bonito and large bluefish has energized the area. The canal is teeming with baitfish, including silversides, peanut bunker, and even squid, attracting striped bass up to 40 inches. Early morning outings have been particularly productive, with anglers using a variety of lures to match the diverse prey. 

 

As the season progresses, the fishing landscape continues to evolve. Anglers are encouraged to stay adaptable, monitor local reports, and seize the opportunities presented by Cape Cod's rich and varied waters.