Captain Jack's Offshore Report - October 15, 2025
Executive Summary & Regulatory Updates
Welcome, offshore enthusiasts! Captain Jack here, with your comprehensive offshore intelligence report for October 15, 2025. The canyons are alive with activity, and the fall bite is in full swing. Anglers venturing offshore are finding a diverse range of species, from pelagics to deep-water dwellers. Remember to stay informed on the latest NOAA regulations, particularly regarding tuna, swordfish, and shark limits, as these can change frequently. Always consult the most current guidelines before heading out.Biologist's Perspective
Oceanographic conditions are highly favorable for offshore species. The Gulf Stream continues to push warm, nutrient-rich water into our canyons, creating distinct thermal breaks and upwellings that concentrate baitfish. Satellite imagery (SST and Chlorophyll) indicates strong temperature gradients and productive chlorophyll blooms along the canyon edges, signaling prime feeding grounds. The presence of significant bait schools, including mackerel, butterfish, and squid, is attracting apex predators. The recent new moon phase is also contributing to stronger tidal currents, enhancing nutrient cycling and bait movement, which further stimulates feeding activity.Region-by-Region Reports
Hudson Canyon
- Conditions: Water temperatures are holding steady at 70-72°F in the core, with distinct 68°F breaks along the canyon edges. Good chlorophyll concentrations are observed on the western wall.
- Species: Yellowfin tuna are the primary target, with solid reports of fish in the 40-70 lb range. Trolling spreader bars with green machines and skirted ballyhoo has been effective. Deep-dropping for swordfish at night has also yielded consistent results, particularly around the 800-1200 foot contour. Bigeye tuna have been reported on the deeper drops. Northern New Jersey Fishing Report - October 9, 2025 mentions good tuna action in the Hudson.
Toms Canyon
- Conditions: Similar to Hudson, with warm core water at 71°F and strong temperature breaks. Significant bait marks are showing on sonar, especially around the 50-100 fathom curve.
- Species: Excellent reports of longfin tuna (albacore) in the 30-50 lb class, primarily caught on small skirted lures and jigs. Mahi-mahi are still present around floating debris and weed lines. Swordfish action has been steady at night. Southern New Jersey Fishing Report - October 9, 2025 confirms good offshore activity.
Atlantis Canyon
- Conditions: A strong eddy from the Gulf Stream is influencing Atlantis, maintaining warm water (72-74°F) and creating sharp thermal boundaries. The Windy.app forecast for Atlantis Canyon indicates favorable weather for the next few days.
- Species: Bigeye tuna are the highlight here, with several reports of fish over 150 lbs. Trolling large lures and chunking with butterfish have been successful. White marlin releases have also been noted. The Northeast Offshore Report - October 3, 2025 highlighted strong canyon activity.
Block Canyon
- Conditions: Water temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from 68-70°F, but still very productive. Good current flow along the canyon walls. A previous Captain Jack's Offshore Report for Block Canyon detailed similar conditions.
- Species: Mixed bag of yellowfin and longfin tuna. Deep-dropping for tilefish and other bottom dwellers has been excellent, especially in depths of 600-900 feet. Some swordfish are also being taken at night.
Species Intelligence
- Yellowfin Tuna: Responding well to spreader bars, green machines, and ballyhoo. Look for them around temperature breaks and bait concentrations.
- Longfin Tuna (Albacore): Smaller skirted lures and jigs are key. Focus on areas with good current and bait.
- Bigeye Tuna: Larger lures for trolling, and chunking with butterfish at night. Often found in deeper canyon areas.
- Swordfish: Deep-dropping with squid or mackerel at night. Target depths of 800-1500 feet.
- Mahi-Mahi: Still present around floating debris and weed lines. Small lures and baits will work.
- Tilefish: Deep-dropping with squid or clam baits on electric reels. Found on hard bottom in canyon depths.
Captain Jack's Pro Tips
- Monitor Conditions: Always check the latest SST charts, chlorophyll maps, and weather forecasts before heading out. Terrafin (e.g., LEO Daily SST-View Newest Charts by Region) is an invaluable resource.
- Bait Presentation: Ensure your baits are fresh and presented naturally. Sharp hooks are non-negotiable.
- Safety First: Offshore fishing demands respect for the ocean. File a float plan, ensure all safety gear is onboard, and never hesitate to turn back if conditions deteriorate.
References
[1] On The Water. (2025, October 9). Northern New Jersey Fishing Report- October 9, 2025. Northern New Jersey Fishing Report- October 9, 2025 - On The Water[2] On The Water. (2025, October 9). Southern New Jersey Fishing Report- October 9, 2025. Southern New Jersey Fishing Report- October 9, 2025 - On The Water
[3] On The Water. (2025, October 3). Northeast Offshore Report- October 3, 2025. Northeast Offshore Report – October 3, 2025 - On The Water
[4] Windy.app. (n.d.). Atlantis Canyon Fishing Forecast. Atlantis Canyon Fishing Forecast — Windy.app
[5] Terrafin. (n.d.). SST View - Canyons - Block to Atlantis. LEO Daily SST-View Newest Charts by Region
[6] nyangler.com. (2025, October 7). Captain Jack's Offshore Report October 7, 2025. Captain Jack's Offshore Report - October 7, 2025
