The fishing community on Cape Cod is buzzing with excitement as we gear up for spring! And before we dive into this post and video about surfcasting, I'd like to remind you of a few upcoming events that are on the horizon...
Ok, so with that out of the way, let's dive into this in-depth and informative video recording of the lively meetup we held on Saturday February 3rd at the beautiful Fishermen's View Restaurant on the banks of the Cape Cod Canal in Sandwich.
You can click play above to watch the full video, or scroll below for some quick highlights from the talk.
00:00
Introduction
One cool thing about the meetups that we host at Fishermen's View Restaurant is that the venue is small enough to allow us to get to know each other better.
That's why at the beginning of each meetup I devote 15 minutes or so to introductions.
During this time, each attendee gets about 30 seconds to say hello to the group and share one of their fishing goals for the upcoming season.
14:30
Prioritizing Safety in Dynamic Environments
Safety in surfcasting cannot be overstated, as emphasized by Cal, who points out the unpredictable nature of the surf. Carl echoes this sentiment, advocating for common sense and the importance of fishing with a buddy.
They both stress the dangers of sugar sand and advise against wading too deep, recommending always wearing a safety belt.
17:00
The Multifunctional Surf Belt
Cal reveals the dual purpose of the surf belt: it not only ensures a tight seal over waders to prevent water flow but also keeps tools accessible.
Essential gear like long reach fish grips and pliers for hook removal are mentioned as crucial for safety and convenience.
20:00
Handling Fish and Hooks with Care
When landing fish from shore, Carl and Cal recommend reducing drag as the fish approaches to prevent accidents and using heavy leaders for control.
Carl suggests keeping fish in the water when possible, but when fishing the Outer Cape Beaches it's safer to slide them onto the sand for hook removal. Emphasizing preparedness, he advises carrying strong pliers and keeping up with tetanus shots.
When filleting a fish - get Kevlar gloves to protect fingers and hands.
27:00
Gear and Technique for Effective Surfcasting
This part of the discussion covers the debate between trebles and singles for catch rate and fish mortality, with a consensus on crimping barbs for easy release.
When it comes to battling the ocean's swell, especially on the Outer Cape, using a heavy leader and timing with the waves are key strategies for preventing snapped leaders.
56:00
Bait Fishing Insights and Tips
For those preferring bait, the right rod and reel are essential. Techniques for using sea worms and live eels are shared, including dressing plugs with eel skins for added attraction.
Bucktail jigs are recommended for their quick sinking ability, which is ideal for targeting fish along the bottom.
1:17
Tidal Influences and Spot Selection
Understanding tidal movements and spotting areas where bait fish may become trapped are crucial for locating fish.
Observing wildlife and using binoculars can also provide clues to fish activity.
The importance of experimenting with different spots and being adaptable in technique and gear choice is highlighted.
1:34
Surprise Giveaway
At the end of the event, MFCC member Marshall Roy surprised everyone by announcing that he had taped some of his homemade Darter plugs beneath a few of the chairs in the room. The folks sitting on those special chairs were able to take the plugs home as a free gift. Thank you Marshall!
We also gave away an aluminum rod holder that fits into a vehicle's trailer hitch, along with a canal map, and an assortment of different lures.
In conclusion, the upcoming 2024 Season Kickoff and subsequent meetups are not just about fishing; they're about coming together as a community, sharing knowledge, and ensuring everyone returns safely from their fishing trips with great stories and hopefully, some awesome catches.
Thank you to everyone who attended the Feb. 3rd Surfcasters' Meetup at Fishermen's View. And special thanks to the Fishermen's View staff for making it a memorable morning!
Tight lines 🎣
Ryan