What You'll Find at Bass Point

Bass Point is a rocky coastal access point in Westport, Massachusetts, on the eastern shore of Buzzards Bay. The site sits at the mouth of the Westport River where it meets open water, making it a natural funnel for migrating striped bass and bluefish. The rocks and shallow structure hold fish year-round, but the best fishing runs from May through October when striped bass move through in numbers and bluefish arrive in summer.

The point itself is small and exposed. You fish from rocks and a narrow beach, with limited parking and no facilities. The water drops off quickly, and the current can run hard on tidal changes. This is not a beginner's location — the rocks are slick, the footing is uneven, and the Atlantic swells can be substantial. But for anglers who know how to read structure and move safely on rocks, Bass Point offers consistent access to quality fish without a boat.

Key Takeaways

  • Bass Point is a rocky point in Westport where striped bass and bluefish concentrate during spring and fall migrations, with peak fishing from May through October.
  • Access is from a small parking area near the end of Drift Road; parking is limited and fills quickly on weekends.
  • You fish from rocks and a narrow beach with no facilities, so wear wading boots with good grip and bring water and sun protection.
  • A Massachusetts saltwater fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older, and striped bass are subject to a 28-inch minimum size and a one-fish daily limit.
  • Incoming tide and the hour before sunset are typically most productive, especially when baitfish are present in the water.

Getting There and Parking

Bass Point is located at the end of Drift Road in Westport, about 15 minutes south of Fall River and 45 minutes north of New Bedford. From Route 6, take Route 177 south toward Westport, then follow signs to Drift Road. The road narrows as you approach the point, and parking is a single small lot with room for roughly 8 to 10 vehicles. On summer weekends and during fall migration, the lot fills by mid-morning.

There is no backup parking nearby, so arrive early or plan to fish during weekday hours. The walk from the lot to the rocks is about 100 yards across a small beach. There are no restrooms, no water, and no shade structures at the site. Bring everything you need for the duration of your visit.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (May and June) brings the first major push of striped bass moving through Buzzards Bay. Water temperatures are still cool, and fish are aggressive. Fishing is often best in the hour before sunset and during the first two hours of incoming tide. Bluefish begin to show in late May.

Summer (July and August) sees bluefish dominate the point, with striped bass present but less concentrated. The water warms, and daytime fishing slows. Early morning and late evening are most productive. Baitfish schools are visible on calm days, and fish often feed in the shallows at dawn.

Fall (September and October) is the strongest season. Striped bass return in large numbers as they move south, and bluefish are still active. Water temperatures cool, and fish feed throughout the day. This is when Bass Point is most crowded and most productive.

Winter (November through April) is slow. Some striped bass remain, but they are scattered and less aggressive. Water temperatures drop into the 40s, and rough conditions make the rocks dangerous. Most anglers do not fish the point during winter.

What Species Live Here and How to Fish Them

Striped bass are the primary target. They range from 18 inches to over 40 pounds, though most fish at Bass Point run 20 to 30 inches. They feed on sand eels, silversides, and small mackerel. Live bait fished on the bottom or in the water column works well. Casting small plugs and soft plastics also produces, especially during low-light hours. Fish the incoming tide and the slack water at the turn of the tide.

Bluefish arrive in May and stay through October. They are aggressive hunters and will chase baitfish into the shallows. Casting small to medium plugs, spoons, and soft plastics works well. Bluefish are less selective than striped bass and bite throughout the day. They are also strong fighters and will test your drag and knot strength.

Mackerel and scup are secondary species. Mackerel show up in summer and fall and can be caught on small jigs and spoons. Scup (porgy) are present year-round in deeper water and bite readily on small hooks baited with clams or squid.

Regulations and Licensing

All anglers 16 and older must hold a Massachusetts saltwater fishing license. Licenses are sold online through the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries website, at tackle shops, and at some sporting goods stores. A one-year license costs roughly $27 for residents and $42 for non-residents. A three-day license is also available for non-residents.

Striped bass have a 28-inch minimum size and a one-fish daily limit. This means you can keep one fish per day that measures 28 inches or longer from the tip of the mouth to the tip of the tail. Bluefish have no size limit but are subject to a 10-fish daily limit. Mackerel and scup have their own size and bag limits; check the current regulations before you fish.

Regulations change annually, so verify current rules through the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries before your trip. The agency publishes a saltwater fishing guide each year with all size limits, bag limits, and season dates.

Tackle and Bait Recommendations

For striped bass, bring a 7- to 8-foot medium-heavy spinning rod with 15- to 20-pound braided line. Pair it with a 20- to 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. Carry a mix of small plugs (2 to 4 inches), soft plastics (3 to 5 inches), and live bait rigs. If you use live bait, bring a small cooler with sand eels or silversides from a local tackle shop.

For bluefish, the same rod works, but you may want to step up to 20-pound braided line and a heavier leader (30 to 40 pounds) because bluefish have sharp teeth and will fray lighter line. Spoons and small metal jigs are effective and durable.

Wear wading boots with a good rubber sole or felt-and-rubber hybrid. The rocks are slick, especially when wet, and a fall can result in serious injury. Bring polarized sunglasses to spot fish in the shallows. A small headlamp is useful for early morning and evening fishing. Sunscreen and a hat are essential — the rocks reflect sun and wind off the water intensifies UV exposure.

Tides and Timing

Bass Point is most productive on the incoming tide, especially the first two hours after the turn. Fish move into the shallows to feed as water rises. The slack water at the turn of the tide (high to low or low to high) is also productive because baitfish are less mobile and easier to hunt.

The hour before sunset is consistently the best time to fish, regardless of tide. Fish become more aggressive as light fades. Early morning (first hour after sunrise) is also good, though often less productive than evening.

Check tide tables for Westport before you go. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) publishes free tide predictions for Buzzards Bay. Plan your visit to arrive an hour before the incoming tide begins, so you can fish the full incoming cycle.

Safety Considerations

Bass Point is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean. Swells and wind can change quickly, and the rocks become dangerous in rough water. Never turn your back to the ocean — waves can sweep you off the rocks without warning. Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) if you are not a strong swimmer, and consider wearing one regardless.

The rocks are sharp and slick. Wading boots are not optional. Do not fish alone if possible, and always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Cell service is spotty at the point, so do not rely on your phone for emergency contact.

Avoid fishing during nor'easters or when the National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory. The rocks are most dangerous during these conditions, and the risk of injury far outweighs any fishing opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Bass Point?

No. Bass Point is a shore-fishing location. You fish from rocks and a narrow beach. A boat is not necessary and would not improve your access to fish — the point itself is the structure that holds them.

What is the best time of year to fish Bass Point?

Fall (September and October) is the strongest season for both striped bass and bluefish. Spring (May and June) is also very good. Summer is slower, and winter is rarely worth the effort and risk.

Can I keep multiple striped bass?

No. Massachusetts allows one striped bass per day, and it must be 28 inches or longer. You can keep one fish and must release any others you catch.

What should I do if I slip on the rocks?

Wear wading boots with good grip and move slowly. If you do fall, get out of the water quickly and move away from the rocks to avoid being swept back in by a wave. Have a first aid kit in your vehicle. Serious injuries require calling 911, though cell service is unreliable — have a plan to reach help before you arrive.

Is Bass Point crowded?

Yes, especially during fall migration and on weekends. The parking lot is small and fills quickly. Weekday mornings and spring fishing offer more solitude. Arrive early or plan to fish during off-peak times if you prefer fewer people.