First fish of 2022
Striped bass aficionados have officially reached the point where they can put cabin fever on the back burner. Fresh fish have hit the Cape and a number of anglers have reported success on both fly and light tackle. On my maiden voyage for the season, I was lucky to stumble across some of the first fish to hit the Cape. Being that it was only April 22nd, I had low expectations. However…
After casting for what seemed an eternity, I finally felt the thump I had been waiting all winter for. FISH ON! Though it didn’t put up much of a fight, that first one of the season always feels great. Until larger fish arrive within the coming weeks, the key right now is to find shallow, moving water. These areas, such as estuaries or back bays, will be holding the most fish as the warm water attracts an abundance of baitfish early in the season.
The first of many for the 2022 season
Small soft plastics (weighted or weightless) will be great in seeking out these early season migrants. Some of my go-to lures are an Al Gags, Zoom Super Fluke, and Sluggo. On warmer days, it could even be worth it to start working small top water plugs.
If you have been waiting for an excuse to get out off the couch and catch some fish, it’s no longer wishful thinking. Take advantage of the beautiful spring weather we have ahead and good luck chasing down your first fish of the 2022 season. Things are only going to heat up!
Tight Lines
“Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers”.
-Herbert Hoover
