Striped Bass

Chatham, Massachusetts, is a striped bass paradise, particularly known for its dynamic coastline and access to productive waters. The Monomoy Rips, a constantly shifting underwater landscape, create ideal ambush points for stripers feeding on sand eels and other baitfish. The best time to target striped bass here is from late spring through fall, as they migrate into the area to feed. Early morning and late evening tides are particularly productive. A local tip is to use bucktail jigs tipped with soft plastics when fishing the Rips, as they can handle the strong currents. Also, consider fishing the backwaters and estuaries around Chatham, especially during the early season, where smaller stripers often congregate. Be aware that boat traffic can be heavy, especially during peak season, so plan your trips accordingly. Keep an eye on water temperatures; stripers become more active as the water warms up.