Surfcasting Spot

Race Point Surf

The tip of the Cape, where deep water sweeps the sand. Race Point and Herring Cove put big bass and blues within a cast of the beach, and even tuna crash bait in sight of shore.

Map showing the location of Race Point Surf
Location map · © OpenStreetMap contributors

Race Point wraps the very tip of Cape Cod, where the deep water of the shipping channel and Cape Cod Bay meets the outer Atlantic. That deep water swings in close to the beach, so surfcasters can reach fish, big bass and blues, that would be far offshore anywhere else. On the best days, tuna and whales feed within sight of the sand.

The spots

Race Point itself and nearby Herring Cove offer access to that close-in deep water. The rip and current off the point concentrate bait. A 4WD over-sand permit opens the beach beyond the lots.

How to fish it

Because the water is deep close in, metals and soft plastics that reach and sink shine, along with plugs at low light. Fish the tide and watch for bait and bird activity, feeds can erupt right off the beach.

Tip Watch for whales, birds and breaking fish just off the sand, the deep water means the action can be surprisingly close. When bait gets pinned against the beach on the tide, be ready for a fast, ferocious blitz.

Regulations Cape Cod National Seashore over-sand permits, seasonal closures and striped bass rules apply. Check the Cape Cod National Seashore and Massachusetts DMF.
From the page to the water

Learn it here, land it out there

Reading is a great start. The fastest way to get good is a day on the water with someone who does it every day.

Book a trip with Captain Nick

Note: fishing regulations (size limits, bag limits, seasons, permits) change often. Always confirm current rules with the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries (saltwater), MassWildlife (freshwater), or NOAA Fisheries (offshore/HMS) before you keep a fish.