Striped bass and bluefish are starting their fall migration.  Schools of both species have been passing through the Canal.  At times, the fish have hung around for several days and have provided good action for both plug and bait fisherman.  Bass are also moving through Nantucket Sound and are holding well in Woods Hole and along the Elizabeth Islands.  Smaller fish — up to 35 inches — are being taken on top water plugs.  Drop something live to the bottom and bass of up to 30 lbs are being taken regularly in the Hole and along the Islands.  Nat Chaukley this last week just missed out on a 50-pounder when he used a live pogie to boat a 49-lb, 10-oz bass.

For funny fish fans, the west side between Woods Hole and West Falmouth has featured the best false albacore action during the past several weeks.  Albies and some bonito have also turned up infrequently off the Waquoit jetties and along the south side beaches.

Scup season closed last week but some big scup are still being taken by beach anglers. With the water cooling, tautog should be moving into their fall haunts.  A green crab is the bait of choice.