Dan's Tackle Box

Cape Cod Canal, MA

Privately funded construction for the canal, shortening the trip around the Cape by over 100 miles, started in 1909. Dredging began from both ends. Divers had to dynamite huge glacial boulders. New England weather caused delays. The original Bourne and Sagamore bridges were electrically controlled cantilever designs built in 1911 and 1913. In 1914 the canal opened for business collecting tolls for its use. At 100 feet wide and 25 feet deep it was not large enough to prevent large ships from running aground.

3 miles off the Massachusetts coast a German submarine, the U-156, shelled a number of freighters in 1918. The government took over management of the canal days later, under orders from the President, facilitating safe passage through the canal avoiding offshore german subs.

In 1928 the canal was bought by the government for $11 million and made a free public waterway. During the 1930s the canal's width was increased to 500 feet and depth to 30 feet.

Here is a world class striper fishing hole with runs often occuring in May and November. Sharpies know well the best techniques and locations. Parking, foot and bike trails, and shore fishing are all along the 7 mile canal on both sides. Previously I have parked at the east canal entrance to fish off the rock jetty with lures in the 1-2 ounce range depending on wind and current conditions. I will use a jighead with trailer, swimbait, spoon, crankbait, popper, or striper rig with real bait. Obviously real bait like mackerel, eels, squid, clams, and worms work best. I prefer fake bait because it is convenient, keeps me occupied, and is challenging. There is a daily striper keeper limit, and you will need a Massachusetts saltwater fishing license.