731 | Fly Fishing Massachusetts with George Sylvestre - Cape Cod, Tailwaters, Midges

#731 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/731

Presented by: Togiak River Lodge, On DeMark Lodge, Mountain Waters Resort

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Switching from freshwater to saltwater fly fishing isn’t always easy, but today’s guest makes it simple. In this episode, we talk with guide George Sylvestre about fly fishing Massachusetts and the flats of Cape Cod, the Tailwaters of the Northeast, and how to make a smooth transition between fresh and saltwater. George shares his top three differences between the two, plus expert tips on casting, reading the water, and targeting fish in both environments. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights to improve your game.

Episode Chapters with George Sylvestre on Fly Fishing Massachusetts

Mastering the Transition: From Trout Streams to the Saltwater Flats

Many fly anglers start on freshwater rivers and lakes, but making the switch to saltwater fly fishing comes with some challenges. In this episode, guide and instructor George Sylvestre shares insights on fishing Massachusetts waters, from the tailwaters of the western part of the state to the flats of Cape Cod. He also introduces his Cape Cod School of Saltwater Fly Fishing, designed to help anglers confidently step into saltwater fly fishing.

Key Differences Between Freshwater and Saltwater Fly Fishing:

• Casting in the Wind – Saltwater fishing almost always involves wind, so anglers need to adjust their casting technique.
• Longer Casts – Unlike trout fishing, where accuracy matters at short distances, saltwater fly fishing often requires reaching fish that are farther out.
• The Strip Set – Trout anglers often instinctively lift their rod when setting the hook, but in saltwater, a strip set is crucial to securing a strong connection with fast-moving fish.

Fly Fishing in Massachusetts: A Diverse and Exciting Fishery

Massachusetts offers fly anglers a wide range of fishing opportunities, from technical trout streams to expansive saltwater flats. George shares what makes this state a special place to fish, with its mix of tailwaters, freestones, reservoirs, and a world-class saltwater fishery.

Top Fishing Opportunities in Massachusetts:

• The Deerfield River – A productive tailwater that holds brown trout, rainbows, and brook trout year-round.
• The Miller’s River – A freestone river that challenges anglers with changing conditions and a variety of techniques including dry flies, nymphs, and streamers.
• Stillwater Reservoirs – Great for targeting smallmouth and largemouth bass, plus a fun spot to take kids fishing.
• Boston Harbor & Cape Cod – Striped bass fishing at its finest, with miles of coastline and ever-changing fishing spots.

Exploring the Brewster Flats: Fly Fishing Cape Cod's Hidden Gem

Cape Cod is known for its stunning coastline, but for fly anglers, the Brewster Flats offer one of the most unique and exciting fisheries on the East Coast. 12,000 acres of tidal flats create an ever-changing landscape where anglers can walk for miles in search of striped bass and bluefish.

Why Fish the Brewster Flats

• Diverse Species – Stripers in May, bluefish in summer, and albies in the fall.
• Easy Access – Public access points make it simple to explore.
• Changing Conditions – A 12-foot tide swing means careful planning is key.

Guides like George help anglers navigate this fishery with clinics and guided trips focused on timing, casting, and reading the water.

Chasing False Albacore and Stripers in Cape Cod

September fly fishing in Cape Cod is all about variety. Mornings start with chasing albies as they crash bait along the coast. These fish are fast, picky, and put up a serious fight. Instead of constantly running after them, George likes to find their pattern and let them come to him.

Once the sun gets higher, it's time to head to the Monomoy rips, where strong currents create standing waves that attract striped bass, bluefish, and more albies. Fishing here is full of action—big fish, heavy flies, and rods bending deep into the backing. If you’ve never had an albie on a sinking line in rough water, you’re missing out on one of the best fights in saltwater fly fishing.

For those looking for a more classic flats experience, Monomoy’s Great Flats offer prime striper action. As the tide pushes bait into shallow channels, stripers line up like cars in a traffic jam, waiting for the perfect am...