Captain Jack's Complete Offshore Report - December 5, 2025
Bottom Line Up Front:
CRITICAL REGULATORY UPDATE: The Atlantic Bluefin Tuna General Category is CLOSED effective 11:30 p.m., December 5, 2025, through December 31, 2025. All bluefin tuna must be released. The fall pelagic season is rapidly winding down. The primary opportunities have shifted to catch-and-release bluefin, with a few scattered yellowfin and mahi still being reported in the warmer eddies. Weather will be the biggest factor for the remainder of the season.
Biologist's Perspective:
The late-season bite is being driven by the last vestiges of warm Gulf Stream water clinging to the canyon edges. A significant temperature break, with a 5- to 7-degree differential, is holding the remaining bait and predators. The recent cold fronts have begun to chill the surface waters, pushing the thermocline deeper and concentrating the fish in specific zones. The upcoming full moon will likely trigger a final burst of feeding activity before the fish make their final push south.
Hudson Canyon - December 5, 2025Reports from the Hudson have been sparse, but a few boats, including the Bluefin IV, have found some life in the 60- to 70-fathom range. The water temperature has been holding in the low 60s, with some scattered schools of yellowfin and mahi being reported. The key has been to find the warmer water and work the edges of the temperature breaks. Trolling with small ballyhoo and spreader bars has been the most effective technique.
Atlantis Canyon - December 5, 2025The Atlantis has been holding a decent body of water in the 62- to 64-degree range. Reports from Rock Fish Charters indicate a pick of yellowfin in the 40- to 50-pound class, with a few bigger fish mixed in. The fish have been holding deep, and chunking with butterfish has been the most productive method. The bite has been best during the early morning and late afternoon hours.
Block Canyon - December 5, 2025Block Canyon has been the most consistent producer over the past week. The water temperature has been in the low 60s, and there has been a good concentration of bait in the area. The Alyssa Ann Sportfishing has been on the fish, with reports of yellowfin, bigeye, and a few wahoo. The fish have been feeding on a variety of baits, including squid, mackerel, and sand eels. Trolling and jigging have both been effective.
Toms Canyon - December 5, 2025Toms has been hit-or-miss, but there are still some fish to be had for those who put in the time. The water temperature has been a bit cooler than the other canyons, but there are still some pockets of warmer water holding fish. The Lady Grace Charters reported a few yellowfin and a lone bigeye on a recent trip. The fish have been scattered, so covering a lot of water has been the key to success.
Fishtails/Bacardi Grounds - December 5, 2025The Fishtails and Bacardi Grounds have been holding a good amount of bait, but the fishing has been slow. The water temperature has been in the high 50s, and the fish seem to have moved on to warmer waters. A few boats, including the Finall-ey Fishing, have made the run, but the reports have been disappointing.
Montauk Offshore Grounds - December 5, 2025The Montauk offshore grounds have been quiet, with most of the action moving south. There have been a few reports of bluefin tuna being caught on the troll, but the bite has been inconsistent. The water temperature has been in the mid-50s, and the bait has been scarce.
72-Hour Oceanographic Outlook:
A strong cold front is expected to move through the area on Saturday, which will likely shut down the offshore bite for a few days. The winds are forecasted to be in the 20- to 30-knot range, with seas building to 8 to 12 feet. The water temperatures will continue to drop, and the remaining fish will likely make a final push south. The best bet for the next few days will be to stay inshore and target the remaining striped bass and tautog.
Tactical Recommendations:
- Focus on the Canyons: The best bet for offshore action will be in the Hudson, Atlantis, and Block Canyons. Look for the warmer water and the temperature breaks.
- Trolling and Chunking: Trolling with small ballyhoo and spreader bars has been effective for covering water and locating fish. Once you find the fish, chunking with butterfish has been the most productive method.
- Timing is Everything: The bite has been best during the early morning and late afternoon hours. The upcoming full moon could also trigger a good bite.
- Be Prepared for the Weather: The weather can change quickly offshore, so be sure to check the forecast before you go and be prepared for rough conditions.
