For October 3, 2024, the Charles River in Boston is looking promising for anglers, despite the transitioning fall weather. As of this morning, the temperature is expected to be in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, with a gentle breeze of about 5-7 mph. There's a slight chance of scattered clouds, but no significant precipitation is forecasted. This overcast sky can actually work in your favor, as local anglers agree that fishing is often better when the sun is not at its peak.

High tide is expected around 11:17 AM, and low tide at 5:30 PM, providing ample time for both morning and evening fishing sessions. Sunrise today is at 6:35 AM, and sunset will be at 6:08 PM.

Striped bass are still actively feeding, particularly on alewife herring and river herring fry. They tend to move to deeper waters as the day warms up, so follow them to areas with abrupt depth changes. Chain pickerel are also active and can be found in various depths throughout the day.

Yesterday, anglers reported catching striped bass, with some specimens reaching up to 45 inches in length. Chain pickerel and largemouth bass were also common catches. The presence of pogies and sea herring continues to attract larger fish, making the Charles River a vibrant fishing spot.

For striped bass, use soft-plastic baits like creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on a weighted hook. Topwater baits are effective in the early morning and evening. For chain pickerel, similar baits work well. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits are effective near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs work better along the many bridges and pilings.

Focus on the wider waters of the Lower Basin, particularly around the bridge pilings which provide shade and ambush points for feeding fish. Areas near Harvard, Brandeis, and MIT, where the river winds through, are rich in fish activity due to the diverse ecosystem. Underwater holes and ledges where depths abruptly change are also prime spots.

Given the current conditions, the best times to fish are early morning before the sun hits its peak and in the evening. With the right bait, tackle, and timing, you're set for a successful day of fishing on the Charles River. Enjoy your time on the water