During my annual surf fishing trip to Cuttyhunk this past June, I picked up a copy of “Cuttyhunk and The Elizabeth Islands”. I now have a deeper understanding of the role that these small islands off the coast of Massachusetts played in the formative years of the American Experiment.
This book provides a historical overview of the Elizabeth Islands (Cuttyhunk, Penisese, Nashawena, and Paque); from when they were founded to modern day. The first commercial interest in these islands was timber. After the timber was harvested, farming took root. Recreational fishing soon followed. The Cuttyhunk Fishing Club and the Pasque Island Fishing Club were established. The members of these clubs fished lobster tails from DIY stands perched on the slippery boulders studding the shorelines of these islands. Landing a 60 lb striped bass in the surf through a boulder field with a graphite rod, braided line, forged hooks, and a water proof reel with 40 lbs of drag is a challenge for a skilled surfcaster. I cannot image how a CFC member landed a 64 lb striped bass with gear from 1882!
According to this book, Charlie Cinto landed his 73 lb striped bass from his boat off the coast of Nashawena Island. However, an old salt on Cuttyhunk, who recalls the catch, told me a different story. One thing is certain, recreational fishing on the Elizabeth Islands was and is legendary. I hope with prudence, fishing on the Elizabeth Islands shall remain legendary for my grandchildren’s children and their grandchildren’s children.
Before the United States Coast Guard, volunteers from Cuttyhunk and Nashawena rescued people, live stock, and goods from ships resting on the rocks and reefs around the islands.
- Aquatic, 1843
- Mary Givan, 1872
- Anna Mitchell, 1875
- William H. Thorndike, 1879
- Rob and Harry, 1892
- Joseph Oakes, 1896
- Stephen G. Hart, 1911
- Wanderer, 1924
The volunteers were family men. These family men were selfless and always willing to help others at the risk of their own lives! Why? Because that was the right thing to do. Reading these acts of bravery makes me proud to be an American.
I enjoyed reading about the families who lived on the Elizabeth Islands. Family is the basic unit of humanity. I also enjoyed reading about the birth of America’s recreation fishing industry. Work hard. Play harder.
