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Caught a Striped Bass Inshore in Hingham
Striped Bass Fishing in Hingham, MA
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Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) are one of the most prized gamefish in Massachusetts waters. These powerful fish are known for their distinctive horizontal stripes and can grow to impressive sizes between 20 and 55 inches, weighing anywhere from 10 to 81 pounds. - Striped Bass thrive in various habitats including rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. - They're especially active around Hingham during summer months. - Their fighting ability makes them a favorite target for anglers of all skill levels.
Fishing Charter by Captain David Horte in August
Meet your Captain David Horte
- Top Fishing Charter in Hingham, MA
Summary
Our Tuesday July fishing charter in Hingham delivered exactly what anglers hope for – action-packed Striped Bass fishing! Setting out from Shipyard Drive early morning, we navigated through some questionable weather that eventually cleared up as forecasted. We alternated between light tackle casting, bottom fishing, and trolling throughout South Shore's productive waters. The highlight was landing a beautiful 28-inch Striped Bass that put up an impressive fight. Blueline Fishing Charters specializes in these inshore trips where we target Striped Bass in Hingham Bay, Hull, and other local hotspots. Whether you're bringing the family or organizing a small group outing, our private charter experience accommodates all skill levels with all gear and licenses included. Summer is prime time for fishing these waters – don't miss your chance to get in on the action!
Fishing Charter with Captain Horte – Rates & Booking
Captain David Horte of Blueline Fishing Charters offers Tuesday July trips that showcase the best of Hingham's inshore fishing grounds. Our 5-hour trips start at $700 with all gear, bait, and licenses included. We comfortably accommodate up to 6 passengers, though 4 is recommended for the optimal fishing experience. Need more time on the water? We offer optional trip extensions for $120 per additional hour. As a licensed captain with extensive knowledge of South Shore fishing grounds, I'll put you on the fish whether you're targeting Striped Bass, Bluefish, or other seasonal species. Flexible departure times are available upon request – just reach out to customize your day on the water.
Highlights of Half Day Guided Bluefish And Striped Bass Fishing Trip In South Shore, MA
This 5-hour private charter gives you exclusive access to the productive inshore fishing grounds of Hingham Bay, Hull, Weymouth, Quincy and Boston Harbor. I've spent years learning these waters, and know exactly where to find Striped Bass depending on conditions and time of year. Whether you're completely new to fishing or an experienced angler, we'll tailor the experience to match your skill level.
Summer fishing in Hingham offers consistent action with various techniques. We'll switch between light tackle casting, bottom fishing, and trolling based on what's working best that day. The 28-inch Striped Bass we caught demonstrates the quality of fish available in these waters, and there's always the possibility of landing something even bigger during your trip.
Local Species Insights: Striped Bass
Striped Bass are the crown jewel of Massachusetts inshore fishing, especially during summer months when they actively feed in Hingham's waters. These powerful gamefish are identified by their distinctive seven to eight horizontal stripes and can grow to impressive sizes. When targeting Stripers in Hingham Bay, we focus on structure, tidal movements, and bait concentrations that consistently hold fish.
The 28-inch specimen we caught is typical of what you can expect, though larger fish in the 30-40 inch range are certainly possible. Striped Bass respond well to both artificial lures and live bait presentations. Their fighting ability makes them a favorite among anglers of all skill levels – strong enough to give experienced fishermen a challenge while still being accessible for newcomers to the sport.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Our boat is fully equipped with quality rods, reels, tackle, and everything needed for a productive day on the water. We provide all bait and necessary licenses, so you only need to bring personal items like sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, weather-appropriate clothing, and any preferred snacks or drinks. Morning departures are typically best for summer fishing conditions, though we can arrange afternoon trips as well.
Safety is our top priority at Blueline Fishing Charters. Our vessel is Coast Guard inspected and equipped with all required safety gear. Captain Horte maintains all proper licenses and insurance for your peace of mind. For maximum comfort and the best fishing experience, we recommend groups of 4 passengers, though we can accommodate up to 6 if needed.
Fishing in Boston: Striped Bass
The Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) is an iconic member of the Moronidae family and belongs to the order Perciformes. These magnificent gamefish are immediately recognizable by their seven to eight distinctive horizontal black stripes running along silver-white sides. In Hingham waters this July, Striped Bass are actively feeding and providing excellent action for anglers on charter trips.
Striped Bass Overview
Striped Bass are highly prized gamefish known for their powerful fights and excellent table fare. These anadromous fish spend most of their adult lives in saltwater but return to freshwater to spawn, making them adaptable to various environments. Anglers specifically target them for their challenging fights and substantial size.
Striped Bass Habitat and Distribution
These fish inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, rivers, and lakes along the Atlantic Coast from the St. Lawrence River to the St. Johns River in Florida. Around Hingham, MA, they're commonly found in harbor areas, along rocky shorelines, and near structure like bridge pilings, jetties, and drop-offs. They prefer areas with strong current and abundant bait.
Striped Bass Size and Weight
Striped Bass typically range from 20 to 55 inches in length and can weigh between 10 and 81 pounds. A 28-inch Striped Bass like the one we caught is considered a quality catch, though trophy specimens exceeding 40 inches are caught in Massachusetts waters during prime seasons.
Striped Bass Diet and Behavior
Stripers are opportunistic predators that feed on a variety of prey including herring, menhaden, mackerel, sand eels, squid, and crabs. They often hunt in schools, corralling baitfish against structure or the surface. They're most active during dawn and dusk but will feed throughout the day when conditions are favorable.
Striped Bass Spawning Season
Striped Bass typically spawn in freshwater from April through June when water temperatures reach 60-70°F. After spawning in major river systems like the Hudson and Chesapeake, many migrate northward along the coast, arriving in Massachusetts waters by early summer. This post-spawn migration makes July an excellent time to target them in Hingham.
Striped Bass Fishing Techniques
Several effective methods work well for Striped Bass in Hingham waters. Live bait fishing with mackerel, menhaden, or eels produces consistent results, particularly around structure. Casting artificial lures like topwater plugs, swimbaits, and soft plastics works well during active feeds. In July, anglers around Hingham find success trolling tube and worm rigs along channel edges and depth changes. Jigging with bucktails or metal jigs near bottom structure is another productive approach.
Striped Bass Is It Good to Eat?
Striped Bass is highly regarded as excellent table fare with firm, white flesh and a mild, sweet flavor. It's versatile for cooking methods including grilling, baking, or pan-searing. Nutritionally, it's a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, many anglers practice catch and release for larger breeding-sized fish to help conserve the population.
Striped Bass Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Striped Bass?
A: Live bait like mackerel, menhaden (pogies), eels, and herring are extremely effective. For artificial lures, swimbaits, topwater plugs, and soft plastics that mimic local baitfish work well in Hingham waters.
Q: Where can I find Striped Bass near Hingham?
A: Productive spots include Hingham Bay, Hull Gut, Weymouth Back River, and around the islands of Boston Harbor. Focus on areas with structure, current, and bait concentrations.
Q: Is Striped Bass good to eat?
A: Yes, Striped Bass has firm white meat with a mild, sweet flavor that's delicious when properly prepared. However, be aware of local consumption advisories and size regulations.
Q: When is the best time to catch Striped Bass?
A: In Hingham, the prime season runs from late May through October, with July and August offering excellent action. Dawn and dusk typically provide the most productive fishing, especially during summer months.
Q: What size Striped Bass can I keep in Massachusetts?
A: Massachusetts regulations require Striped Bass to be between 28-31 inches to keep, with a one fish daily bag limit. Always check current regulations as they may change annually.
Q: Do I need a fishing license to catch Striped Bass in Massachusetts?
A: Yes, saltwater anglers need a Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing Permit, though when fishing aboard a licensed charter like Blueline Fishing Charters, the captain's permit covers all anglers onboard.
