Captain Jack's Complete Offshore Report - November 28, 2025
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - LATE SEASON PELAGIC OPPORTUNITIES
The offshore fishery is defying seasonal expectations. Despite late November timing and challenging weather patterns, multiple pelagic species remain accessible across the canyon systems from Hudson to Montauk. Bluefin tuna of multiple size classes are actively feeding on bunker concentrations in near-shore waters (14-20 nm), yellowfin activity continues at the 20-30 mile grounds, and mahi-mahi are providing consistent action when tuna fishing slows. The next 72 hours present a critical weather window: gale conditions today (Friday) clear to excellent conditions Saturday, offering prime fishing before the next frontal system arrives Sunday night.
REGULATORY STATUS: Standard recreational bluefin regulations in effect. No special closures at this time. Verify current regulations before departure.
BIOLOGIST'S PERSPECTIVE - ENVIRONMENTAL DRIVERS
The current offshore pattern is driven by three primary oceanographic factors that are extending the season beyond typical November parameters.
Sea Surface Temperatures & Thermocline Structure: Water temperatures in the 20-40 mile range are holding in the 54-58°F zone, which is 2-4 degrees above historical late November averages. This temperature anomaly is maintaining pelagic species in our waters longer than typical seasonal patterns would predict. The thermocline has not fully broken down, creating a defined temperature gradient between 40-80 feet that's concentrating baitfish and attracting predators. This stratification is critical - it's creating feeding zones where pelagic species can exploit concentrated prey while maintaining access to their preferred temperature ranges.
Gulf Stream Influence & Current Activity: The Gulf Stream's northern edge is positioned approximately 80-120 miles offshore, with warm-core eddies and fingers extending toward the shelf edge. These features are creating temperature breaks and current convergences that concentrate bait and attract pelagic predators. The most significant activity is occurring where these warm-water intrusions interact with the cooler shelf waters, creating distinct color and temperature breaks visible on satellite imagery. These breaks are dynamic - they shift with tidal cycles and wind patterns - but they're predictable if you understand the underlying oceanography.
Bait Concentrations & Prey Availability: The extended presence of Atlantic menhaden (bunker) in near-shore and mid-shore waters is the primary driver of bluefin activity. These baitfish typically migrate south by mid-November, but warmer water temperatures and favorable conditions have kept them in our area. Squid concentrations are present at depth (100-200 feet) around canyon edges, providing forage for yellowfin and bigeye tuna during nighttime feeding periods. Sand eels and small mackerel are present in the water column, creating additional forage opportunities.
Weather Patterns & Barometric Influence:[/b> The current high-pressure system building in behind today's gale will create stable conditions Saturday through early Monday. Barometric pressure rising from 29.8 to 30.2 inches typically triggers feeding activity in pelagic species as they sense the stable weather window. This is a critical fishing opportunity - the fish know winter's approaching, and they're feeding aggressively during favorable conditions.
HUDSON CANYON - November 28, 2025
Location: 38°30'N to 39°30'N, approximately 95-110 nautical miles southeast of Sandy Hook
Current Conditions: Hudson Canyon remains the southernmost major structure in our operational range, and it's showing mixed activity in late November. Water temperatures at the canyon head (600-800 feet) are running 56-58°F at the surface with a defined thermocline at 60-80 feet dropping to 52-54°F. The canyon walls are creating upwelling that concentrates bait, but the distance from port (8-10 hour run) makes this a committed trip.
Species Activity: Yellowfin tuna in the 40-80 pound range are present around the canyon edges, particularly on the western wall where current creates bait concentrations. Bigeye tuna are showing up on nighttime trips, with fish in the 80-150 pound range feeding at depth. Mahi-mahi are scattered but present, with fish in the 10-25 pound range around floating debris and weed lines.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> The most productive pattern has been trolling the canyon edges during daylight hours, targeting the 100-200 fathom contours where temperature breaks intersect with structure. Spreader bars and daisy chains in green/yellow patterns are producing yellowfin strikes. For bigeye, nighttime deep-dropping with squid or butterfish in the 200-400 foot zone is effective. Chunking at dawn and dusk around the canyon head can produce explosive surface feeds when conditions align.
Best Timing: Dawn and dusk for surface activity. Nighttime for bigeye. Midday trolling for yellowfin along temperature breaks.
ATLANTIS CANYON - November 28, 2025
Location: 38°52'N to 39°00'N, approximately 85-95 nautical miles southeast of Fire Island Inlet
Current Conditions: Atlantis Canyon sits between Hudson and Block, offering a compromise on distance while maintaining productive structure. Surface temperatures are running 55-57°F with good water clarity (30-50 feet visibility). The canyon structure creates current convergences that concentrate bait, particularly along the eastern wall where upwelling is most pronounced.
Species Activity: Yellowfin tuna activity is fair to good, with fish in the 30-70 pound range responding to trolled offerings and chunk baits. Mahi-mahi are present in better numbers than at Hudson, with schools of 15-30 fish working weed lines and debris. Occasional wahoo strikes are occurring on high-speed trolling presentations.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> Focus efforts on the eastern wall where current creates the most pronounced bait concentrations. Troll the 100-150 fathom contours with a spread that includes both surface and subsurface offerings. Cedar plugs, skirted ballyhoo, and spreader bars in blue/white and green/yellow patterns are producing. When you mark bait concentrations, switch to chunking - set up uptide of the marks and create a slick. Yellowfin will move into the slick if they're present.
Best Timing: First light through mid-morning for surface activity. Late afternoon for another feeding window. Nighttime deep-dropping can produce bigeye.
BLOCK CANYON - November 28, 2025
Location:[/b> 39°50'N to 40°05'N, approximately 65-75 nautical miles south-southeast of Montauk Point
Current Conditions: Block Canyon is showing the most consistent activity in the canyon systems right now, likely due to its position relative to current patterns and bait movements. Surface temperatures are 54-56°F with excellent water clarity. The canyon structure is well-defined with the head at approximately 600 feet dropping to 1200+ feet in the main channel. Current along the walls is moderate to strong, creating ideal bait-concentrating conditions.
Species Activity: This is where the action is. Yellowfin tuna in the 40-80 pound range are feeding actively along both the eastern and western walls. Mahi-mahi are present in good numbers - schools of 20-40 fish working debris and weed lines. Bigeye tuna are available on nighttime trips, with fish in the 100-200 pound range feeding at depth. Occasional albacore are mixed in with the yellowfin.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> Block Canyon deserves your full attention right now. The most productive approach is a combination strategy: start with trolling at first light to locate active fish, then transition to chunking when you find them. Troll the 100-200 fathom contours on both walls, watching for temperature breaks and current edges. When you mark bait or see surface activity, set up a chunk slick. Use butterfish or bunker chunks, creating a steady stream of bait. The yellowfin will move into the slick, and when they do, it's game on.
For mahi-mahi, work any floating debris or weed lines you encounter. These fish are aggressive and will hit a variety of offerings - ballyhoo, small jigs, even topwater plugs. When you find a school, stay with them - mahi are social and where there's one, there are usually more.
Best Timing:[/b> Dawn patrol is critical - be fishing at first light. Morning through midday for yellowfin. All day for mahi when you find them. Nighttime for bigeye specialists.
TOMS CANYON - November 28, 2025
Location:[/b> 39°05'N to 39°15'N, approximately 75-85 nautical miles southeast of Barnegat Inlet
Current Conditions:[/b> Toms Canyon is showing moderate activity with water temperatures in the 55-57°F range. The canyon structure is less pronounced than Block but still creates sufficient upwelling and current convergence to concentrate bait. Water clarity is good at 40-60 feet visibility.
Species Activity:[/b> Yellowfin tuna are present but less concentrated than at Block. Fish are in the 30-60 pound range, responding to trolled offerings. Mahi-mahi are scattered but catchable, with fish in the 10-20 pound range. Some albacore are mixed in with the yellowfin schools.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> Toms Canyon is a solid backup option if Block is crowded or if you're running from a more southern port. Focus trolling efforts on the western wall where current patterns are most favorable. A mixed spread of cedar plugs, skirted ballyhoo, and small spreader bars will cover your bases. If you mark concentrated bait, transition to chunking. The fish are here, but they're not as concentrated as at Block, so you need to cover more water to find them.
Best Timing:[/b> Early morning for best yellowfin activity. Midday for mahi around debris. Late afternoon for another feeding window.
FISHTAILS / BACARDI GROUNDS - November 28, 2025
Location:[/b> Approximately 30-40 nautical miles south of Shinnecock Inlet, depth range 120-180 feet
Current Conditions:[/b> The Fishtails and Bacardi Grounds represent the transition zone between inshore and offshore waters. Surface temperatures are 54-56°F with good clarity. These grounds are showing excellent activity right now, offering a shorter run than the deep canyons while still producing quality pelagic action.
Species Activity:[/b> This is where the yellowfin action has been most consistent. Fish in the 40-70 pound range are feeding on the grounds, responding to both trolled and chunked offerings. Mahi-mahi are present in good numbers, with schools working the area. Occasional bluefin tuna are showing up, particularly when bunker concentrations are present.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> The Fishtails deserve serious attention right now. The shorter run (2-3 hours from Montauk, 3-4 from Shinnecock) makes this a manageable day trip, and the fishing's been excellent. Start with a troll to cover water and locate fish. When you find activity, set up a chunk slick. Butterfish chunks have been particularly effective, creating a scent trail that brings yellowfin in from depth.
Watch your electronics carefully - when you mark bait concentrations at 80-120 feet, there are likely tuna below them. Jigs worked vertically through these zones can produce explosive strikes. Butterfly jigs in blue/silver and green/gold patterns are effective.
Best Timing:[/b> First light through mid-morning is prime time. Late afternoon offers another feeding window. All day when you're on fish.
MONTAUK OFFSHORE GROUNDS - November 28, 2025
Location:[/b> 10-25 nautical miles south and southeast of Montauk Point
Current Conditions:[/b> The inshore grounds off Montauk are producing the most accessible action right now. Surface temperatures are 52-56°F depending on exact location. Water clarity is variable - cleaner in the deeper water (20+ miles), greener closer to shore. These grounds are showing exceptional bluefin activity, making them the headline story of the week.
Species Activity:[/b> Bluefin tuna are the main attraction. Multiple size classes are present - school fish (27-73 inches), large school/small medium fish (73-110 inches), and occasional giants (110+ inches). These fish are actively feeding on bunker concentrations, creating surface feeds that are visible and accessible. Yellowfin tuna are present in the 20-30 mile range, mixing with the bluefin. Mahi-mahi are scattered but catchable.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> This is where the magic's happening. Bluefin are blasting through bunker pods in 14-20 miles of water, creating spectacular surface feeds. The pattern's been consistent: find the birds, find the bunker, find the tuna. When you locate a feed, position your boat uptide and cast into the activity. Jigs, poppers, and soft plastics are all producing strikes.
The timing of feeds has been mid-afternoon (2-4 PM), though this can vary with conditions. The fish are feeding opportunistically when they encounter concentrated bait. Some feeds last minutes, others persist for an hour or more. When you're on them, it's world-class fishing.
For anglers on smaller boats (19-23 feet), this fishery is accessible. The runs are manageable (14-20 miles), and the fishing's been spectacular. Multiple reports of recreational-size bluefin and larger fish being caught and released from center consoles and small sportfishing boats.
Chunking is also effective. Set up over structure or near bait concentrations, create a slick with butterfish or bunker chunks, and wait for the tuna to move in. This is a more patient approach, but it can produce consistent action when surface feeds aren't happening.
Best Timing:[/b> All day potential, but mid-afternoon (2-4 PM) has been the sweet spot for surface feeds. Dawn and dusk for chunking. Be flexible and ready to adapt.
SPECIES-SPECIFIC TACTICAL BREAKDOWN
Bluefin Tuna:[/b> Focus on the Montauk offshore grounds (14-25 miles). Find birds, find bunker, find tuna. Cast jigs and poppers into surface feeds. Chunk over structure when feeds aren't happening. Multiple size classes present - be prepared for anything from school fish to giants. Tackle needs to be appropriate for the size fish you're targeting.
Yellowfin Tuna:[/b> Block Canyon and Fishtails showing best activity. Troll at dawn to locate fish, then transition to chunking. Butterfish chunks creating effective slicks. Jigs worked vertically through bait concentrations producing strikes. Fish are in the 30-80 pound range, with most in the 40-60 pound zone.
Mahi-Mahi:[/b> Present throughout the area, but best numbers at Block Canyon and Fishtails. Work any floating debris or weed lines. Aggressive feeders that will hit a variety of offerings. When you find a school, stay with them - multiple fish are usually present.
Bigeye Tuna:[/b> Nighttime specialists should focus on Hudson, Atlantis, and Block canyons. Deep-dropping in the 200-400 foot zone with squid or butterfish. Fish are in the 80-200 pound range. This is technical fishing that requires specialized gear and knowledge.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS & 72-HOUR OUTLOOK
Current Conditions (Friday, November 28):[/b> Gale Warning in effect. West winds 25-30 knots gusting to 35. Ocean seas 5-8 feet, occasionally to 10. Canyon waters rough and dangerous. DO NOT FISH TODAY. Use this day for preparation, tackle maintenance, and trip planning.
Saturday, November 29:[/b> THIS IS YOUR PRIME DAY. Winds diminishing significantly - west 15-20 knots becoming northwest 10-15 by afternoon. Ocean seas dropping to 3-5 feet and continuing to subside. Offshore conditions improving throughout the day. Barometric pressure rising to 30.0-30.2 inches. This is an excellent fishing day - stable weather, calming seas, rising pressure triggering feeding activity. If you're going to fish this week, Saturday is the day.
Sunday, November 30:[/b> Morning window available. South winds 10-15 knots increasing to 15-20 in the afternoon. Ocean seas building from 3-5 feet to 5-7 feet. Showers developing, light in the morning, heavier in the afternoon. Fish the morning, be back at the dock by early afternoon before conditions deteriorate.
Monday, December 1:[/b> Post-frontal conditions. Northwest winds 15-20 knots. Ocean seas 4-6 feet but cleaning up. Clearing skies, stable weather. Good fishing conditions, particularly for the closer grounds (Montauk offshore, Fishtails).
Sea Surface Temperature Analysis:[/b> Current SST patterns show 52-56°F in the 10-30 mile range, 54-58°F at the canyon edges. Temperature breaks are present where cooler shelf water meets warmer offshore water, typically in the 40-60 mile range. These breaks are dynamic and shift with current patterns, but they're predictable using satellite imagery and on-the-water observation.
Current Activity:[/b> Moderate to strong currents along canyon walls creating upwelling and bait concentration. Tidal influence extends offshore, affecting current patterns at the shelf edge and canyon heads. Plan your fishing around current cycles - slack periods are less productive than moving water.
CAPTAIN JACK'S TACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS
For Saturday (Prime Day):[/b>
- **Montauk Offshore Grounds (14-25 miles):** Target bluefin tuna on bunker. Find birds, find bait, find fish. Cast jigs and poppers into surface feeds. Chunk over structure when feeds aren't happening. This is the most accessible and productive option.
- **Fishtails/Bacardi Grounds (30-40 miles):** Target yellowfin tuna and mahi. Troll at dawn, transition to chunking when you find fish. Shorter run than canyons, excellent action.
- **Block Canyon (65-75 miles):** For serious offshore anglers willing to make the run. Yellowfin, mahi, and bigeye potential. This is the best canyon option right now.
Tackle & Techniques:[/b>
- **For Bluefin Surface Feeds:** 6-7 foot spinning rods, 50-80 lb braid, 50-80 lb fluorocarbon leaders. Jigs (2-6 oz depending on fish size), poppers, soft plastics. Cast into the feed, work lures aggressively.
- **For Yellowfin Trolling:** Conventional trolling gear, 50-80 lb class. Spreader bars, daisy chains, cedar plugs, skirted ballyhoo. Cover water until you find fish.
- **For Chunking:** Conventional stand-up gear, 50-80 lb class. Butterfish or bunker chunks. Create a steady slick, fish chunks on 6-8 foot leaders behind the boat.
- **For Mahi:** Light conventional or spinning gear, 20-40 lb class. Ballyhoo, small jigs, topwater plugs. Fast, aggressive retrieves.
Technology & Fish-Finding:[/b>
- Monitor satellite SST imagery before departure to identify temperature breaks
- Use quality electronics to mark bait concentrations and fish
- Watch for birds working - they're your eyes in the sky
- Communicate with other boats (within reason) to share information on fish locations
- Track your catches with GPS coordinates to build a database of productive areas
THE BOTTOM LINE [/b>
We're in late November, and by all normal seasonal patterns, the offshore fishery should be winding down. But it's not. Water temperatures are above average, bait concentrations are still present, and multiple pelagic species are actively feeding across our canyon systems and offshore grounds.
The bluefin action off Montauk is the headline story - accessible, spectacular, and productive. The yellowfin bite at Block Canyon and the Fishtails is solid. Mahi are providing bonus action throughout the area. This is not typical late November fishing - this is excellent fishing that's defying seasonal expectations.
Saturday presents a critical weather window. Gale conditions today clear to excellent conditions tomorrow. Barometric pressure rising, seas calming, winds diminishing. The fish will be feeding, and the conditions will be right. If you're going to make an offshore trip this week, Saturday is the day.
Sunday morning offers another window before the next system moves in. Monday looks good for the closer grounds after the front passes.
We've got a narrow window here - maybe two weeks, maybe three - before water temperatures drop enough to push these fish south and shut down the season. But right now, the fishing's excellent. The fish are here, the conditions are manageable, and the opportunities are real.
From a biologist's perspective, what we're seeing is a combination of favorable oceanographic conditions extending the season. Warmer water temperatures, persistent bait concentrations, and favorable current patterns are keeping pelagic species in our waters. This won't last forever - winter's coming - but it's lasting longer than usual, and we need to take advantage while we can.
Get your tackle ready, check the forecast, fuel up the boat, and get offshore. This is prime time.
Tight lines and following seas,
Captain Jack
Offshore Long Island
Fisheries Biologist & Pelagic Specialist
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - LATE SEASON PELAGIC OPPORTUNITIES The offshore fishery is defying seasonal expectations. Despite late November timing and challenging weather patterns, multiple pelagic species remain accessible across the canyon systems from Hudson to Montauk. Bluefin tuna of multiple size classes are actively feeding on bunker concentrations in near-shore waters (14-20 nm), yellowfin activity continues at the 20-30 mile grounds, and mahi-mahi are providing consistent action when tuna fishing slows. The next 72 hours present a critical weather window: gale conditions today (Friday) clear to excellent conditions Saturday, offering prime fishing before the next frontal system arrives Sunday night.
REGULATORY STATUS: Standard recreational bluefin regulations in effect. No special closures at this time. Verify current regulations before departure.
BIOLOGIST'S PERSPECTIVE - ENVIRONMENTAL DRIVERS The current offshore pattern is driven by three primary oceanographic factors that are extending the season beyond typical November parameters.
Sea Surface Temperatures & Thermocline Structure: Water temperatures in the 20-40 mile range are holding in the 54-58°F zone, which is 2-4 degrees above historical late November averages. This temperature anomaly is maintaining pelagic species in our waters longer than typical seasonal patterns would predict. The thermocline has not fully broken down, creating a defined temperature gradient between 40-80 feet that's concentrating baitfish and attracting predators. This stratification is critical - it's creating feeding zones where pelagic species can exploit concentrated prey while maintaining access to their preferred temperature ranges.
Gulf Stream Influence & Current Activity: The Gulf Stream's northern edge is positioned approximately 80-120 miles offshore, with warm-core eddies and fingers extending toward the shelf edge. These features are creating temperature breaks and current convergences that concentrate bait and attract pelagic predators. The most significant activity is occurring where these warm-water intrusions interact with the cooler shelf waters, creating distinct color and temperature breaks visible on satellite imagery. These breaks are dynamic - they shift with tidal cycles and wind patterns - but they're predictable if you understand the underlying oceanography.
Bait Concentrations & Prey Availability: The extended presence of Atlantic menhaden (bunker) in near-shore and mid-shore waters is the primary driver of bluefin activity. These baitfish typically migrate south by mid-November, but warmer water temperatures and favorable conditions have kept them in our area. Squid concentrations are present at depth (100-200 feet) around canyon edges, providing forage for yellowfin and bigeye tuna during nighttime feeding periods. Sand eels and small mackerel are present in the water column, creating additional forage opportunities.
Weather Patterns & Barometric Influence:[/b> The current high-pressure system building in behind today's gale will create stable conditions Saturday through early Monday. Barometric pressure rising from 29.8 to 30.2 inches typically triggers feeding activity in pelagic species as they sense the stable weather window. This is a critical fishing opportunity - the fish know winter's approaching, and they're feeding aggressively during favorable conditions.
HUDSON CANYON - November 28, 2025 Location: 38°30'N to 39°30'N, approximately 95-110 nautical miles southeast of Sandy Hook
Current Conditions: Hudson Canyon remains the southernmost major structure in our operational range, and it's showing mixed activity in late November. Water temperatures at the canyon head (600-800 feet) are running 56-58°F at the surface with a defined thermocline at 60-80 feet dropping to 52-54°F. The canyon walls are creating upwelling that concentrates bait, but the distance from port (8-10 hour run) makes this a committed trip.
Species Activity: Yellowfin tuna in the 40-80 pound range are present around the canyon edges, particularly on the western wall where current creates bait concentrations. Bigeye tuna are showing up on nighttime trips, with fish in the 80-150 pound range feeding at depth. Mahi-mahi are scattered but present, with fish in the 10-25 pound range around floating debris and weed lines.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> The most productive pattern has been trolling the canyon edges during daylight hours, targeting the 100-200 fathom contours where temperature breaks intersect with structure. Spreader bars and daisy chains in green/yellow patterns are producing yellowfin strikes. For bigeye, nighttime deep-dropping with squid or butterfish in the 200-400 foot zone is effective. Chunking at dawn and dusk around the canyon head can produce explosive surface feeds when conditions align.
Best Timing: Dawn and dusk for surface activity. Nighttime for bigeye. Midday trolling for yellowfin along temperature breaks.
ATLANTIS CANYON - November 28, 2025 Location: 38°52'N to 39°00'N, approximately 85-95 nautical miles southeast of Fire Island Inlet
Current Conditions: Atlantis Canyon sits between Hudson and Block, offering a compromise on distance while maintaining productive structure. Surface temperatures are running 55-57°F with good water clarity (30-50 feet visibility). The canyon structure creates current convergences that concentrate bait, particularly along the eastern wall where upwelling is most pronounced.
Species Activity: Yellowfin tuna activity is fair to good, with fish in the 30-70 pound range responding to trolled offerings and chunk baits. Mahi-mahi are present in better numbers than at Hudson, with schools of 15-30 fish working weed lines and debris. Occasional wahoo strikes are occurring on high-speed trolling presentations.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> Focus efforts on the eastern wall where current creates the most pronounced bait concentrations. Troll the 100-150 fathom contours with a spread that includes both surface and subsurface offerings. Cedar plugs, skirted ballyhoo, and spreader bars in blue/white and green/yellow patterns are producing. When you mark bait concentrations, switch to chunking - set up uptide of the marks and create a slick. Yellowfin will move into the slick if they're present.
Best Timing: First light through mid-morning for surface activity. Late afternoon for another feeding window. Nighttime deep-dropping can produce bigeye.
BLOCK CANYON - November 28, 2025 Location:[/b> 39°50'N to 40°05'N, approximately 65-75 nautical miles south-southeast of Montauk Point
Current Conditions: Block Canyon is showing the most consistent activity in the canyon systems right now, likely due to its position relative to current patterns and bait movements. Surface temperatures are 54-56°F with excellent water clarity. The canyon structure is well-defined with the head at approximately 600 feet dropping to 1200+ feet in the main channel. Current along the walls is moderate to strong, creating ideal bait-concentrating conditions.
Species Activity: This is where the action is. Yellowfin tuna in the 40-80 pound range are feeding actively along both the eastern and western walls. Mahi-mahi are present in good numbers - schools of 20-40 fish working debris and weed lines. Bigeye tuna are available on nighttime trips, with fish in the 100-200 pound range feeding at depth. Occasional albacore are mixed in with the yellowfin.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> Block Canyon deserves your full attention right now. The most productive approach is a combination strategy: start with trolling at first light to locate active fish, then transition to chunking when you find them. Troll the 100-200 fathom contours on both walls, watching for temperature breaks and current edges. When you mark bait or see surface activity, set up a chunk slick. Use butterfish or bunker chunks, creating a steady stream of bait. The yellowfin will move into the slick, and when they do, it's game on.
For mahi-mahi, work any floating debris or weed lines you encounter. These fish are aggressive and will hit a variety of offerings - ballyhoo, small jigs, even topwater plugs. When you find a school, stay with them - mahi are social and where there's one, there are usually more.
Best Timing:[/b> Dawn patrol is critical - be fishing at first light. Morning through midday for yellowfin. All day for mahi when you find them. Nighttime for bigeye specialists.
TOMS CANYON - November 28, 2025 Location:[/b> 39°05'N to 39°15'N, approximately 75-85 nautical miles southeast of Barnegat Inlet
Current Conditions:[/b> Toms Canyon is showing moderate activity with water temperatures in the 55-57°F range. The canyon structure is less pronounced than Block but still creates sufficient upwelling and current convergence to concentrate bait. Water clarity is good at 40-60 feet visibility.
Species Activity:[/b> Yellowfin tuna are present but less concentrated than at Block. Fish are in the 30-60 pound range, responding to trolled offerings. Mahi-mahi are scattered but catchable, with fish in the 10-20 pound range. Some albacore are mixed in with the yellowfin schools.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> Toms Canyon is a solid backup option if Block is crowded or if you're running from a more southern port. Focus trolling efforts on the western wall where current patterns are most favorable. A mixed spread of cedar plugs, skirted ballyhoo, and small spreader bars will cover your bases. If you mark concentrated bait, transition to chunking. The fish are here, but they're not as concentrated as at Block, so you need to cover more water to find them.
Best Timing:[/b> Early morning for best yellowfin activity. Midday for mahi around debris. Late afternoon for another feeding window.
FISHTAILS / BACARDI GROUNDS - November 28, 2025 Location:[/b> Approximately 30-40 nautical miles south of Shinnecock Inlet, depth range 120-180 feet
Current Conditions:[/b> The Fishtails and Bacardi Grounds represent the transition zone between inshore and offshore waters. Surface temperatures are 54-56°F with good clarity. These grounds are showing excellent activity right now, offering a shorter run than the deep canyons while still producing quality pelagic action.
Species Activity:[/b> This is where the yellowfin action has been most consistent. Fish in the 40-70 pound range are feeding on the grounds, responding to both trolled and chunked offerings. Mahi-mahi are present in good numbers, with schools working the area. Occasional bluefin tuna are showing up, particularly when bunker concentrations are present.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> The Fishtails deserve serious attention right now. The shorter run (2-3 hours from Montauk, 3-4 from Shinnecock) makes this a manageable day trip, and the fishing's been excellent. Start with a troll to cover water and locate fish. When you find activity, set up a chunk slick. Butterfish chunks have been particularly effective, creating a scent trail that brings yellowfin in from depth.
Watch your electronics carefully - when you mark bait concentrations at 80-120 feet, there are likely tuna below them. Jigs worked vertically through these zones can produce explosive strikes. Butterfly jigs in blue/silver and green/gold patterns are effective.
Best Timing:[/b> First light through mid-morning is prime time. Late afternoon offers another feeding window. All day when you're on fish.
MONTAUK OFFSHORE GROUNDS - November 28, 2025 Location:[/b> 10-25 nautical miles south and southeast of Montauk Point
Current Conditions:[/b> The inshore grounds off Montauk are producing the most accessible action right now. Surface temperatures are 52-56°F depending on exact location. Water clarity is variable - cleaner in the deeper water (20+ miles), greener closer to shore. These grounds are showing exceptional bluefin activity, making them the headline story of the week.
Species Activity:[/b> Bluefin tuna are the main attraction. Multiple size classes are present - school fish (27-73 inches), large school/small medium fish (73-110 inches), and occasional giants (110+ inches). These fish are actively feeding on bunker concentrations, creating surface feeds that are visible and accessible. Yellowfin tuna are present in the 20-30 mile range, mixing with the bluefin. Mahi-mahi are scattered but catchable.
Tactical Analysis:[/b> This is where the magic's happening. Bluefin are blasting through bunker pods in 14-20 miles of water, creating spectacular surface feeds. The pattern's been consistent: find the birds, find the bunker, find the tuna. When you locate a feed, position your boat uptide and cast into the activity. Jigs, poppers, and soft plastics are all producing strikes.
The timing of feeds has been mid-afternoon (2-4 PM), though this can vary with conditions. The fish are feeding opportunistically when they encounter concentrated bait. Some feeds last minutes, others persist for an hour or more. When you're on them, it's world-class fishing.
For anglers on smaller boats (19-23 feet), this fishery is accessible. The runs are manageable (14-20 miles), and the fishing's been spectacular. Multiple reports of recreational-size bluefin and larger fish being caught and released from center consoles and small sportfishing boats.
Chunking is also effective. Set up over structure or near bait concentrations, create a slick with butterfish or bunker chunks, and wait for the tuna to move in. This is a more patient approach, but it can produce consistent action when surface feeds aren't happening.
Best Timing:[/b> All day potential, but mid-afternoon (2-4 PM) has been the sweet spot for surface feeds. Dawn and dusk for chunking. Be flexible and ready to adapt.
SPECIES-SPECIFIC TACTICAL BREAKDOWN Bluefin Tuna:[/b> Focus on the Montauk offshore grounds (14-25 miles). Find birds, find bunker, find tuna. Cast jigs and poppers into surface feeds. Chunk over structure when feeds aren't happening. Multiple size classes present - be prepared for anything from school fish to giants. Tackle needs to be appropriate for the size fish you're targeting.
Yellowfin Tuna:[/b> Block Canyon and Fishtails showing best activity. Troll at dawn to locate fish, then transition to chunking. Butterfish chunks creating effective slicks. Jigs worked vertically through bait concentrations producing strikes. Fish are in the 30-80 pound range, with most in the 40-60 pound zone.
Mahi-Mahi:[/b> Present throughout the area, but best numbers at Block Canyon and Fishtails. Work any floating debris or weed lines. Aggressive feeders that will hit a variety of offerings. When you find a school, stay with them - multiple fish are usually present.
Bigeye Tuna:[/b> Nighttime specialists should focus on Hudson, Atlantis, and Block canyons. Deep-dropping in the 200-400 foot zone with squid or butterfish. Fish are in the 80-200 pound range. This is technical fishing that requires specialized gear and knowledge.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS & 72-HOUR OUTLOOK Current Conditions (Friday, November 28):[/b> Gale Warning in effect. West winds 25-30 knots gusting to 35. Ocean seas 5-8 feet, occasionally to 10. Canyon waters rough and dangerous. DO NOT FISH TODAY. Use this day for preparation, tackle maintenance, and trip planning.
Saturday, November 29:[/b> THIS IS YOUR PRIME DAY. Winds diminishing significantly - west 15-20 knots becoming northwest 10-15 by afternoon. Ocean seas dropping to 3-5 feet and continuing to subside. Offshore conditions improving throughout the day. Barometric pressure rising to 30.0-30.2 inches. This is an excellent fishing day - stable weather, calming seas, rising pressure triggering feeding activity. If you're going to fish this week, Saturday is the day.
Sunday, November 30:[/b> Morning window available. South winds 10-15 knots increasing to 15-20 in the afternoon. Ocean seas building from 3-5 feet to 5-7 feet. Showers developing, light in the morning, heavier in the afternoon. Fish the morning, be back at the dock by early afternoon before conditions deteriorate.
Monday, December 1:[/b> Post-frontal conditions. Northwest winds 15-20 knots. Ocean seas 4-6 feet but cleaning up. Clearing skies, stable weather. Good fishing conditions, particularly for the closer grounds (Montauk offshore, Fishtails).
Sea Surface Temperature Analysis:[/b> Current SST patterns show 52-56°F in the 10-30 mile range, 54-58°F at the canyon edges. Temperature breaks are present where cooler shelf water meets warmer offshore water, typically in the 40-60 mile range. These breaks are dynamic and shift with current patterns, but they're predictable using satellite imagery and on-the-water observation.
Current Activity:[/b> Moderate to strong currents along canyon walls creating upwelling and bait concentration. Tidal influence extends offshore, affecting current patterns at the shelf edge and canyon heads. Plan your fishing around current cycles - slack periods are less productive than moving water.
CAPTAIN JACK'S TACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS For Saturday (Prime Day):[/b>
- **Montauk Offshore Grounds (14-25 miles):** Target bluefin tuna on bunker. Find birds, find bait, find fish. Cast jigs and poppers into surface feeds. Chunk over structure when feeds aren't happening. This is the most accessible and productive option.
- **Fishtails/Bacardi Grounds (30-40 miles):** Target yellowfin tuna and mahi. Troll at dawn, transition to chunking when you find fish. Shorter run than canyons, excellent action.
- **Block Canyon (65-75 miles):** For serious offshore anglers willing to make the run. Yellowfin, mahi, and bigeye potential. This is the best canyon option right now.
Tackle & Techniques:[/b>
- **For Bluefin Surface Feeds:** 6-7 foot spinning rods, 50-80 lb braid, 50-80 lb fluorocarbon leaders. Jigs (2-6 oz depending on fish size), poppers, soft plastics. Cast into the feed, work lures aggressively.
- **For Yellowfin Trolling:** Conventional trolling gear, 50-80 lb class. Spreader bars, daisy chains, cedar plugs, skirted ballyhoo. Cover water until you find fish.
- **For Chunking:** Conventional stand-up gear, 50-80 lb class. Butterfish or bunker chunks. Create a steady slick, fish chunks on 6-8 foot leaders behind the boat.
- **For Mahi:** Light conventional or spinning gear, 20-40 lb class. Ballyhoo, small jigs, topwater plugs. Fast, aggressive retrieves.
Technology & Fish-Finding:[/b>
- Monitor satellite SST imagery before departure to identify temperature breaks
- Use quality electronics to mark bait concentrations and fish
- Watch for birds working - they're your eyes in the sky
- Communicate with other boats (within reason) to share information on fish locations
- Track your catches with GPS coordinates to build a database of productive areas
THE BOTTOM LINE [/b>We're in late November, and by all normal seasonal patterns, the offshore fishery should be winding down. But it's not. Water temperatures are above average, bait concentrations are still present, and multiple pelagic species are actively feeding across our canyon systems and offshore grounds.
The bluefin action off Montauk is the headline story - accessible, spectacular, and productive. The yellowfin bite at Block Canyon and the Fishtails is solid. Mahi are providing bonus action throughout the area. This is not typical late November fishing - this is excellent fishing that's defying seasonal expectations.
Saturday presents a critical weather window. Gale conditions today clear to excellent conditions tomorrow. Barometric pressure rising, seas calming, winds diminishing. The fish will be feeding, and the conditions will be right. If you're going to make an offshore trip this week, Saturday is the day.
Sunday morning offers another window before the next system moves in. Monday looks good for the closer grounds after the front passes.
We've got a narrow window here - maybe two weeks, maybe three - before water temperatures drop enough to push these fish south and shut down the season. But right now, the fishing's excellent. The fish are here, the conditions are manageable, and the opportunities are real.
From a biologist's perspective, what we're seeing is a combination of favorable oceanographic conditions extending the season. Warmer water temperatures, persistent bait concentrations, and favorable current patterns are keeping pelagic species in our waters. This won't last forever - winter's coming - but it's lasting longer than usual, and we need to take advantage while we can.
Get your tackle ready, check the forecast, fuel up the boat, and get offshore. This is prime time.
Tight lines and following seas,
Captain Jack
Offshore Long Island
Fisheries Biologist & Pelagic Specialist
