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Caught a 20inch Striped Bass in Hingham
Striped Bass Inshore in Hingham, MA
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The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) is a prized gamefish found along the Atlantic coast and in many freshwater impoundments. Known for their distinctive horizontal stripes and powerful fights, these fish are a favorite target for anglers. In Hingham waters, Striped Bass typically range from schoolie size (20-28 inches) up to trophy specimens over 40 inches. Their seasonal migrations bring them into Massachusetts Bay and Boston Harbor during summer months. - They belong to the Moronidae family and can live up to 30 years. - Striped Bass can grow from 20 inches to over 55 inches in length. - Weight ranges from 10 pounds for younger fish to over 80 pounds for trophy specimens. - They thrive in both saltwater and freshwater environments.
Fishing Charter by Captain David Horte in August
Meet your Captain David Horte
- Top Fishing Charter in Hingham, MA
Summary
Tuesday July fishing was spectacular on our 5-hour inshore charter in Hingham, MA. We set out from Shipyard Drive with a crew of three, targeting Striped Bass in the productive South Shore waters. Despite a forecast calling for potential storms, we were able to adapt with various techniques including light tackle casting, bottom fishing, and trolling. The highlight of our trip was landing a beautiful 20-inch Striped Bass—a perfect catch for our morning charter. Blueline Fishing Charters specializes in putting clients on fish in these local hotspots around Hingham, Hull, and Boston Harbor. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to fishing, our private charters provide all the gear and expertise you need for a successful day on the water. Summer is prime season for inshore fishing in this area, so book your trip now!
Fishing Charter with David Horte – Rates & Booking
Captain David Horte of Blueline Fishing Charters offers Tuesday July fishing trips targeting Striped Bass and Bluefish in Hingham's productive waters. This 5-hour private charter accommodates up to 6 passengers (though 4 is recommended for the best experience) and includes all fishing gear, bait, and licenses. Departures are flexible, with early morning typically providing the best action. The half-day trip covers prime fishing grounds throughout Hingham Bay, Hull, Weymouth, Quincy, and Boston Harbor. For those wanting more time on the water, trip extensions are available at $120 per additional hour. Captain Horte's local knowledge and professional approach ensure both beginners and experienced anglers have excellent opportunities to hook into quality fish.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Bluefish And Striped Bass Fishing Trip In South Shore, MA
Our recent summer outing showcased what makes the South Shore waters special. We employed multiple fishing methods including light tackle casting, which proved effective for the day's conditions. The 20-inch Striped Bass we landed demonstrated the quality of fish available in these waters, even when weather conditions aren't perfect.
Captain Horte's expertise shines when adapting to changing conditions. Starting with slightly challenging weather, we modified our approach throughout the morning, switching between bottom fishing and trolling techniques as needed. This flexibility is what makes fishing with Blueline Charters so productive—we're always prepared to change tactics to put you on fish. The charter provides a professional yet relaxed atmosphere suitable for anglers of all experience levels.
Local Species Insights: Striped Bass
Striped Bass are the crown jewels of Hingham's inshore waters. These powerful gamefish are known for their distinctive horizontal stripes and strong fighting ability. In the summer months, they can be found throughout the South Shore area, particularly around structure, channel edges, and areas with good current flow. The local population typically ranges from schoolies (under 28 inches) to larger specimens in the 30-40 inch class.
For the best results when targeting Striped Bass in Hingham, we often use live bait like mackerel or pogies when available, or artificial lures that mimic their natural prey. Early mornings and evenings typically provide the most productive bite windows, especially around tide changes. Deep sea jigging techniques can be particularly effective when fish are holding in deeper water channels throughout Boston Harbor and nearby areas.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our vessel is well-equipped for inshore fishing with quality tackle and electronics to locate fish. We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and a light jacket as weather can change quickly on the water. Non-marking shoes are preferred, and you're welcome to bring your own food and beverages (no glass containers). Our typical departure time is early morning, but we can accommodate your schedule with advance notice. The boat comfortably fishes 4 anglers, though we can take up to 6 passengers maximum. We prioritize both safety and comfort, ensuring you have a great day on the water while maximizing your chances of catching fish.
Fishing in Boston: Striped Bass
The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis), member of the Moronidae family and Perciformes order, is one of the most coveted gamefish along the Eastern Seaboard. Known for its distinctive dark horizontal stripes running along a silvery-white to olive-green body, this powerful fish has become synonymous with New England fishing. In July, Hingham waters provide excellent opportunities to target these prized fighters as they patrol the coastline.
Striped Bass Overview
Striped Bass are anadromous fish, meaning they migrate from saltwater to freshwater to spawn. They're highly adaptable predators that can thrive in various water conditions, making them accessible to both shore anglers and boating enthusiasts. Their popularity stems from both their fighting ability and excellent table fare, cementing their status as a premier gamefish.
Striped Bass Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Atlantic coastline from the St. Lawrence River to the St. Johns River in Florida, Striped Bass have also been successfully introduced to Pacific waters. Around Hingham, they frequent shallow bays, rocky shorelines, river mouths, and harbor areas. They're structure-oriented fish often found near jetties, bridge pilings, current rips, and underwater ledges throughout Boston Harbor and the South Shore.
Striped Bass Size and Weight
These fish typically range from 20 to 55 inches in length, with weights varying from 10 to 81 pounds. In Massachusetts waters, the average keeper (minimum 28 inches) weighs between 15-25 pounds, though trophy specimens exceeding 40 pounds are caught annually. The current Massachusetts state record stands at 73 pounds.
Striped Bass Diet and Behavior
Striped Bass are opportunistic feeders with a diet primarily consisting of smaller fish like herring, mackerel, menhaden (pogies), and sand eels. They also consume crustaceans, squid, and occasionally small lobsters. They typically feed actively during dawn and dusk, though tidal movement often dictates feeding patterns more than time of day. In summer months, they may retreat to deeper, cooler waters during midday heat.
Striped Bass Spawning Season
While Hingham's waters host migratory fish, actual spawning occurs in freshwater rivers like the Chesapeake Bay system and Hudson River from April through June. After spawning, adult fish migrate northward along the coast, arriving in Massachusetts waters by late spring and remaining through early fall, with peak numbers typically in July and August.
Striped Bass Fishing Techniques
Several effective methods work well in Hingham waters. Live bait fishing with mackerel, pogies, or eels produces consistently, especially during slower tides. Artificial lures like swimming plugs, soft plastic jigs, and metal spoons work excellently during active feeds. In July, deep sea jigging with heavy jigs can be particularly effective when fish hold in deeper channels or around structure. Early morning trips targeting the first light bite along Hingham's shoreline structure often yield the best results.
Striped Bass Is It Good to Eat?
Striped Bass offers excellent table fare with firm, white flesh and a mild, sweet flavor. It's versatile for cooking methods including grilling, baking, and pan-searing. The meat is high in protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. However, be aware of local consumption advisories, as larger specimens may contain higher mercury levels. Many anglers practice selective harvest, keeping mid-sized fish (28-34 inches) for optimal eating quality while releasing both smaller fish and larger breeding specimens.
Striped Bass Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Striped Bass in Hingham?
A: Live mackerel, pogies (menhaden), and eels are top natural baits. For artificial lures, diamond jigs, swimming plugs, and soft plastic paddletails in white, bone, or mackerel patterns produce consistently in local waters.
Q: Where can I find Striped Bass near Hingham?
A: Productive areas include Hingham Bay, Hull Gut, Weymouth Back River, and the numerous islands throughout Boston Harbor. Focus on structure, drop-offs, and areas with current flow, especially during tide changes.
Q: Is Striped Bass good to eat?
A: Yes, Striped Bass is excellent eating with firm white flesh and a mild flavor. It's versatile for various cooking methods and rich in protein and healthy omega-3s. Just be mindful of local consumption advisories for larger fish.
Q: When is the best time to catch Striped Bass in Hingham?
A: The prime season runs from late May through early October, with July and August typically offering peak action. Dawn and dusk provide the best daily windows, but incoming tides often trigger feeding regardless of time of day.
Q: What size Striped Bass can I keep in Massachusetts?
A: Massachusetts regulations require Striped Bass to be between 28-31 inches for recreational harvest with a limit of one fish per angler per day. Always check current regulations as they may change seasonally.
Q: What tackle should I use for Striped Bass?
A: Medium to medium-heavy spinning or conventional gear with 20-30 pound test line works well for most Hingham fishing situations. A 7-7.5 foot rod provides good casting distance while maintaining enough backbone to handle larger fish.
