As the winter snows and chilling winds fade into a distant memory, we look forward to a spring ritual that has become just as important as the opening of the Salem Willows, spring training and ice cream cones. That beloved ritual is casting an assortment of baits in the search of the first schoolie of the new season.

The consumer fishing shows have come to a close and our fishing gear is cleaned, checked and ready to go. Temperatures have been slowly climbing and there is a distinct scent of salt water that drifts over the coastal communities. We patiently wait for the news that the schoolies have returned to the area.

One of the first locations that schoolies return to is the Danvers River. The Danvers River is a system of rivers that fishermen refer to that incorporates the rivers west of the Veterans Memorial Bridge that connects the cities of Salem and Beverly. The rivers that make up this popular area include the North River, the Bass River, the Waters River, the Crane River, the Porter River and the Danvers River.

Along the Danvers River there are numerous locations that are both productive and provide access for shore fishermen. The Kernwood Bridge crosses the river above the Bass and North Rivers and is generally a great location for fishing. Fishermen generally use chunk and strip baits as well as artificial baits that include jigs and soft plastics.

Just below the bridge is an area that is referred to as the Kernwood Flats. This area is just as productive as the bridge and allows fishermen to cast baits to the bridge abutments. Bordering the Kernwood Country Club, the flats provide easy access for fly fishermen. Casting flies to the edge of the channel keeps fishermen busy. Some fishermen will fish along the golf course with great success.

Moving up the river a bit more, the next location is commonly referred to as Peabody Beach. This is not a beach like Devereux, Nahant, Lynn or Revere but it is an area that comes alongside the river and is the only waterfront in the City of Peabody. Access is gained by cutting through St. Mary’s Cemetery. It entails a bit of a walk and fishermen must respect the conduct that is expected in a cemetery. This is a good location for strip and chunk baits.

One of the most popular locations along the river is the White Fuel Bridge. As the season lengthens and the word gets out that there are stripers in the river, this spot can be very crowded. Fishermen are generally shoulder to shoulder during the striper season and fishermen are advised to arrive early enough during their preferred tide to stake out a small chunk of real estate from which to cast. Along with plenty of schoolie action throughout the season, each year there are good numbers of keeper sized stripers that are brought to net by persistent fishermen.

At the White Fuel Bridge, bait fishermen present chunks and strips of bait along the edges of the current. Fishermen not only fish the bridge but there is enough room on each side of the bridge to accommodate good numbers of fishermen. A fish finder rig increases the chances of hooking up. Most fishermen like the new circle hooks as undersized fish can be easily released.

The pool behind Sam & Joe’s Restaurant is a good spot for shore fishermen. Access is good along the back of the restaurant and behind the storage facility next door. Sam & Joe’s has requested that fishermen not park in their parking lot during peak business hours. This request must be honored if fishermen hope to keep this access point open.

Many fishermen will fish some of the marinas located further up the river with great success. In order to insure future access through private property, marinas and other businesses it is mandatory that fishermen keep the areas clean and carry out their trash. Old bait must not be left in barrels, on floats or in parking areas. Remember, a few thoughtless indiscretions can lead to the closing of these productive locations.

When the word leaks out that the stripers have arrived in the river, try fishing for them with light tackle and have a ball. Stop by your local tackle shop for more information on the river. We have maps of the river that shows fishing locations. Tight lines!