Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge (Chatham)

Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge in Chatham, made up of Morris Island on the mainland and the offshore islands of North Monomoy, South Monomoy and Minimoy, is what the Fish and Wildlife Service calls one of the best fishing spots on Cape Cod. Surf fishing is allowed year-round in designated areas, for striped bass, bluefish and flounder. More than 3,500 acres of it is federal wilderness, and the islands can be reached only by boat.

When to fish

• Year-round: surf fishing is allowed in the refuge's designated areas in every season, though "Area Closed" zones for nesting birds shift through the year.

Where to fish

• Morris Island: the refuge's mainland unit, with parking and trails in Chatham.
• North and South Monomoy: the offshore islands, reached only by boat; the refuge doesn't run a ferry.

Getting there

Start at the refuge visitor center at 791 Main Street in downtown Chatham for maps and current closures. The Morris Island lot and trailhead is at 30 Wikis Way, reached over private roads where visitors have a right-of-way; the lot fills on summer days. Carts with wheels aren't allowed in the wilderness area, so carry your gear. Pets are never allowed on the islands, and dogs are barred from the Morris Island trails in summer. No camping, fires, bikes, beach driving or drones. The state's ban on shore fishing with large baited hooks on long wire leaders covers all of Monomoy and Chatham Harbor. You need a Massachusetts saltwater fishing permit, and striped bass have a slot limit and a circle hook rule for bait.