If you're planning to hit the Charles River in Boston today, here’s what you need to know:

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, November 1st, expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 65°F and a low of 50°F. The sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 6:04 PM. Tides are crucial, with the high tide expected at 8:17 AM at a height of 10.5 feet, and the low tide at 2:33 PM at 0.3 feet.

### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for striped bass and bluefish. Anglers reported catching school-sized striped bass, with some specimens reaching up to 45 inches in length. Chain pickerel and largemouth bass were also common catches. The recent drop in water temperatures has pushed these species into their fall patterns, making them more active during the early morning and late evening hours.

### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, try using soft-plastic baits like creature baits, crayfish imitations, and ribbontail worms on a weighted hook. Topwater baits are effective in the evenings for largemouth bass near shoreline structures. Bright-colored shallow-diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits work well near downed trees, while dark-colored jigs are better along the many bridges and pilings. In deeper waters, spoons and weighted or lipless crankbaits are more effective.

### Hot Spots
The wider waters of the Lower Basin, especially along the bridge pilings that provide shade and ambush points, are often prime spots. Look for areas with abrupt depth changes, such as underwater holes and ledges, where fish tend to congregate. The tranquil surroundings of Needham to the vibrant cityscape of Boston offer a variety of fishing spots, including the picturesque areas near downed trees and rocky structures.

### Recent Catches
Yesterday, anglers caught a mix of striped bass, chain pickerel, and largemouth bass. The presence of alewife herring and river herring fry continues to attract larger fish, making the Charles River a vibrant fishing spot.

Given the current conditions, it's a great day to be out on the water. Enjoy your fishing trip and take advantage of the early morning and late evening fishing sessions when fish activity is at its peak.