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Hey there, anglers! Ready for some of the hottest inshore action Buzzards Bay has to offer? Fishrack Charters has you covered with our half-day trip targeting scup and black sea bass. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, we've got everything you need for a killer day on the water. We're talking prime fishing grounds, top-notch gear, and the local know-how to put you on the fish. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the bay!
Picture this: You're cruising out of Buzzards Bay on a sweet, well-equipped boat, the sun's coming up, and you've got a whole morning of fishing ahead of you. We're talking about a 4-hour trip that's all about quality over quantity. We'll be targeting two of the bay's most reliable and tasty species - scup (also known as porgy) and black sea bass. These fish are plentiful from late spring through summer, so you're pretty much guaranteed some solid action. We provide all the rods, reels, and bait, so all you need to bring is your A-game and maybe a cooler for your catch. Whether you're looking to bend some rods or fill the freezer, this trip's got you covered.
Alright, let's talk tactics. We're not just out here chunking bait and hoping for the best. Depending on the day and what the fish are doing, we'll mix it up between trolling and bottom fishing. For scup, we often use hi-low rigs with small hooks baited with squid or clams. When we're after sea bass, we might switch to jigs or use slightly larger bait. The key is reading the water and adapting to what's working. We'll be fishing anywhere from 20 to 60 feet deep, usually over rocky bottom or near structure where these fish like to hang out. And don't worry if you're new to this - we'll walk you through everything, from baiting your hook to landing your catch.
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Let's talk about the fish you'll be chasing. First up, scup (Stenotomus chrysops). These little powerhouses might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but pound for pound, they're some of the scrappiest fighters you'll find inshore. They typically run 1-2 pounds, with anything over 3 pounds considered a real trophy. Scup are known for their light, flaky white meat that's perfect for frying or baking. They tend to school up, so when you find them, it's often fast action.
Now, onto the black sea bass (Centropristis striata). These guys are the real MVPs of Buzzards Bay fishing. They're aggressive feeders and strong fighters, often putting up a serious battle all the way to the boat. A good-sized sea bass runs 2-4 pounds, but we occasionally hook into 5-6 pounders that'll really test your gear. What makes sea bass so popular is their firm, white flesh that's incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Plus, they're just cool-looking fish with their blue-black coloration and distinctive dorsal fin.
Both species start showing up in good numbers by late May, with the fishing really heating up in June and July. By August, you can expect some of the biggest fish of the season as they fatten up before moving offshore for the winter.
So there you have it, folks - a half day of non-stop fishing action in one of Massachusetts' prime inshore spots. Whether you're looking to learn the ropes, hone your skills, or just enjoy a relaxing morning on the water, this Buzzards Bay trip checks all the boxes. With Fishrack Charters, you're not just getting a fishing trip; you're tapping into years of local experience and a passion for putting clients on fish. The bay is calling, and the scup and sea bass are waiting. What are you waiting for? Book your spot now and get ready for some rod-bending, drag-screaming fun!
Black sea bass are a favorite target here in Buzzards Bay. These chunky fish usually run 2-4 pounds, but some bruisers hit 8 pounds or more. You'll find them hanging around underwater structures like wrecks and rocky bottoms, typically in 30-120 feet of water. Late spring to summer is prime time when they move inshore to spawn. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive bite and delicious white meat. To catch 'em, use a medium-weight rod with 20-30 pound line and drop your bait to the bottom. Squid or cut fish work great. Here's a pro tip: when you feel a bite, reel down quickly and set the hook hard. Sea bass have tough mouths, so you need to really stick 'em. Once hooked, they put up a good scrap until they hit the surface. It's always a treat to see those big blue-black males with their distinctive humps.

Scup, also called porgy, are feisty little fish that'll keep your rod bent all day. They average 1-2 pounds but can reach 4 pounds if you're lucky. You'll find them near the bottom around rocky areas and pilings from spring through fall. These silver-sided fighters are most active when the water warms up in late spring and summer. Folks love targeting scup because they're easy to catch and taste great - perfect for a fish fry. To land a bunch, try bottom fishing with squid or clams on a simple two-hook rig. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a second before setting the hook. Scup have small mouths and like to nibble, so giving them time to take the bait improves your hookup rate. They're not huge, but they're fun and abundant - great for anglers of all skill levels.

Striped bass are a real prize in Buzzards Bay. These powerful fish typically run 20-40 pounds, with some monsters pushing 70. Look for them near structures and in moving water, especially at dawn and dusk when they're most active. Spring and fall are prime seasons as stripers migrate through. Anglers love 'em for their strong fight and excellent eating. To boost your chances, try live bait like herring or mackerel - stripers can be picky eaters. Use a sensitive rod, 8-14 feet long, with braided line for better feel. When you hook one, be ready for a battle. These fish pull hard and don't give up easy. If you're new to striper fishing, focus on points and drop-offs where currents create ambush spots. Patience and stealth go a long way with these wary predators. Land a big one, and you've got bragging rights for sure.

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