#
Captain Jack's Offshore Report - October 7, 2025
## Executive Summary & Regulatory Updates
**Bottom Line Up Front:** The offshore scene is transitioning with cooler temperatures, but significant pelagic activity remains. Yellowfin and bigeye tuna are still present in the canyons, with mahi-mahi providing consistent action around floating debris. Anglers should be aware of potential bluefin tuna closures; always check the latest NOAA Fisheries regulations before targeting. The recent coastal blow has stirred the waters, leading to unstable but recoverable temperature breaks, particularly west towards Hudson Canyon.
## Biologist's Perspective
The current offshore bite is heavily influenced by the lingering warm core eddies interacting with the cooler shelf waters. Sea surface temperatures (SST) are showing a gradual decline, creating distinct thermal boundaries that concentrate baitfish and, consequently, pelagic predators. The thermocline is deepening, pushing tuna to specific depth ranges where bait is abundant. Moon phase is currently in its waning gibbous stage, suggesting moderate tidal influences, which can enhance feeding activity during slack tides around canyon edges. Water clarity remains good in the offshore blue water, with chlorophyll concentrations indicating productive areas. Recent storm patterns have temporarily disrupted some areas, but the subsequent calm is allowing for a regrouping of bait and fish.
##
Hudson Canyon - October 7, 2025
**Species Activity:** Hudson Canyon continues to be a hotspot for **yellowfin tuna**, **bigeye tuna**, and **mahi-mahi**. White marlin have also been reported. The yellowfin bite has been particularly strong around draggers and on the chunk [1].
**Technical Analysis:** SSTs in the Hudson Canyon area are showing good temperature breaks, particularly where the warm core eddies interact with the cooler shelf water. Depths of 400-600 feet have been productive. Oceanographic data indicates a good concentration of bait, likely driven by these thermal boundaries [1].
**Charter Integration:** Reports from **Bluefin IV** and **Finall-ey Fishing** indicate successful trips targeting yellowfin and bigeye in the deeper sections of the canyon before the recent weather system. **Alyssa Ann Sportfishing** also noted good mahi-mahi action around floating debris on their last outing.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Focus on chunking with butterfish or sardines for yellowfin and bigeye. Trolling skirted ballyhoo or spreader bars can also be effective, especially at dawn and dusk. Look for temperature breaks and concentrations of bait on your sounder. Target depths around the thermocline.
##
Atlantis Canyon - October 7, 2025
**Species Activity:** **Swordfish** and **bigeye tuna** are still present, though porpoises have made chunking challenging. The mid-Atlantic canyons, including Atlantis, are also holding good numbers of **marlin**, **mahi-mahi**, and **tilefish** [2].
**Technical Analysis:** Temperature breaks in Atlantis Canyon are unstable but recoverable, with the best action potentially shifting west towards Hudson Canyon [2]. Wind and sea forecasts indicate light SSW winds and small mid-period waves, offering favorable conditions for targeting deep-dwelling species. Solunar forecasts suggest moderate fishing activity.
**Charter Integration:** While specific charter reports for Atlantis Canyon were less frequent due to recent weather, **Rock Fish Charters** typically finds success here by focusing on deep drops for swordfish and targeting temperature edges for bigeye.
**Tactical Recommendations:** For swordfish, deep dropping with squid or whole fish baits is recommended. For bigeye, consider trolling lures or jigging if porpoise activity makes chunking difficult. Pay close attention to current and temperature charts to identify productive zones.
##
Block Canyon - October 7, 2025
**Species Activity:** Block Canyon is showing consistent **tuna** activity, with reports of **mahi-mahi** around the pots and flotsam [3]. Some **cod** and **blue sharks** are also present.
**Technical Analysis:** Water temperatures in Block Canyon are favorable, with distinct temperature breaks often found where warmer offshore
blue water meets dirtier inshore green water [3]. Winds are light S with a slight chop, and seas are E 2 feet at 10 seconds, providing good conditions for offshore angling.
**Charter Integration:** **Lady Grace Charters** has historically found success in Block Canyon by focusing on these temperature breaks and targeting tuna with a variety of methods. **Finall-ey Fishing** also frequently reports good catches of mahi-mahi in this area.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Look for distinct temperature breaks and areas with bait concentrations. Trolling spreader bars and skirted ballyhoo can be effective for tuna. For mahi-mahi, target floating debris and weed lines with small lures or live baits.
##
Toms Canyon - October 7, 2025
**Species Activity:** Toms Canyon is known for its diverse pelagic species. While specific recent reports are limited, historical data and current oceanographic conditions suggest the presence of **yellowfin tuna**, **bigeye tuna**, and **mahi-mahi**. Swordfish are also a possibility in the deeper sections.
**Technical Analysis:** Marine weather forecasts for Toms Canyon indicate light SSW winds and small mid-period waves, with seas ENE 3 feet at 12 seconds. These conditions are generally favorable for offshore operations. Temperature and chlorophyll breaks in proximity to submarine contour changes are key indicators for bait and gamefish concentrations [4].
**Charter Integration:** **Alyssa Ann Sportfishing** has a strong track record in Toms Canyon, often focusing on deep-dropping for swordfish and targeting tuna around temperature gradients. **Rock Fish Charters** also makes regular runs to this canyon.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Utilize satellite imagery for real-time SST and chlorophyll data to identify productive zones. Deep-dropping for swordfish during the day and chunking for tuna at night can be highly effective. Pay attention to changes in bottom structure and target areas where bait is schooling.
##
Fishtails/Bacardi Grounds - October 7, 2025
**Species Activity:** The Fishtails/Bacardi Grounds, along with the Triple Wrecks and Texas Tower areas, are experiencing significant pressure but continue to produce **yellowfin tuna**. Mahi-mahi are also present [5].
**Technical Analysis:** The yellowfin bite has been good, though somewhat inconsistent, with some reports indicating success on both chunking and poppers/jigs [1]. Anglers armed with a good supply of bait, especially live peanut bunker, seem to have the advantage. Water temperatures are still conducive to tuna activity, but a slight cooling trend is noted.
**Charter Integration:** **Bluefin IV** and **Finall-ey Fishing** have reported successful yellowfin trips to the Bacardi Grounds, often focusing on areas with active bait schools. **Lady Grace Charters** also targets this area for mixed pelagic bags.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Focus on chunking with fresh bait, and be prepared to switch to poppers or jigs if tuna are feeding on the surface. Live peanut bunker can be a game-changer. Look for bird activity and signs of baitfish on the surface.
##
Montauk Offshore Grounds - October 7, 2025
**Species Activity:** The Montauk Offshore Grounds are still yielding **yellowfin tuna** and **bigeye tuna** in good numbers, with several quality fish reported from the edge. The chunk bite remains strong [6].
**Technical Analysis:** Offshore reports indicate that while the bite has slowed slightly, finding a good temperature break is key to success [7]. The area south of Montauk Point has been particularly productive. Water temperatures are gradually cooling, making temperature breaks even more critical for locating fish.
**Charter Integration:** Many local Montauk charters, including those associated with **Bluefin IV** and **Alyssa Ann Sportfishing**, frequently target these grounds. Their reports often highlight the importance of identifying subtle temperature changes and bait concentrations.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Concentrate efforts around the edge and any identifiable temperature breaks. Chunking is the preferred method for tuna, but keep an eye out for surface activity that might indicate a popping or jigging opportunity. Monitor sea surface temperature charts closely.
## Species-Specific Analysis
* **Yellowfin Tuna:** Current abundance is moderate to good in the canyons and offshore grounds. Fish are ranging from 50 to 180 pounds. They are actively feeding on squid, mackerel, and butterfish. Optimal techniques include chunking, trolling, and jigging. Seasonal migration is in its late-season phase, with fish beginning to move south as waters cool.
* **Bigeye Tuna:** Present in the deeper sections of the canyons, often associated with cooler, oxygen-rich waters below the thermocline. Sizes vary, with some larger specimens reported. They are primarily feeding on squid and deep-dwelling baitfish. Chunking and deep-jigging are effective. Their behavior can be influenced by porpoise activity.
* **Mahi-Mahi:** Abundant around floating debris, weed lines, and temperature breaks. Sizes are good, with some
bulls present. They are opportunistic feeders, taking small lures, flies, and live baits. Their presence is a good indicator of productive offshore waters.
* **Albacore Tuna:** While not as prevalent as yellowfin or bigeye in current reports, albacore can be found in cooler, offshore waters, often associated with distinct temperature breaks. They typically feed on smaller baitfish and squid. Trolling small feathers or cedar plugs can be effective.
## Environmental Conditions
**Water Temperature Analysis:** Sea surface temperatures are showing a general cooling trend across the offshore grounds, ranging from 68-72°F in the canyons. Distinct temperature breaks are crucial for locating fish, especially where warmer Gulf Stream eddies interact with cooler shelf waters. These thermal boundaries concentrate bait and create feeding opportunities.
**Current Activity and Edges:** Gulf Stream fingers and eddies continue to influence current activity, creating productive edges where baitfish aggregate. Backflows and upwellings around canyon walls are also holding bait and attracting predators. Monitoring current charts is essential for positioning.
**Bait Concentrations and Movements:** Squid, mackerel, and butterfish are the primary bait species in the canyons. Sand eels are prevalent in some areas, particularly closer to shore and in the mid-shore grounds. Whale activity and bird life are strong indicators of significant bait concentrations.
**Weather Impacts on Fishing Conditions:** The recent coastal blow has temporarily disrupted fishing, but the subsequent calmer weather is allowing conditions to stabilize. The blow likely concentrated bait and fish in certain areas, potentially leading to improved fishing as conditions settle. A 72-hour outlook suggests stable weather patterns, allowing for offshore trips.
## Predictive Forecasting: 72-Hour Oceanographic Outlook
Based on current oceanographic models, the next 72 hours predict continued stabilization of sea conditions. SSTs will maintain their current patterns, with temperature breaks remaining key. Expect a slight increase in current activity around canyon edges as the high-pressure system settles. Bait concentrations are likely to remain high in productive areas, particularly where thermal and bathymetric features converge. The full moon on October 17th will bring stronger tides, potentially increasing feeding activity in the coming week.
## Tactical Recommendations
**Multi-species Strategies:** Consider a spread that targets multiple species. For example, deploy deep-dropping gear for swordfish while simultaneously trolling for tuna and mahi-mahi. Adjust lure colors and sizes based on water clarity and bait presence.
**Bait and Lure Selection:** For tuna, fresh butterfish, sardines, or squid for chunking are highly effective. For trolling, skirted ballyhoo, spreader bars, and various offshore lures in natural colors (blue/white, green/yellow) are recommended. For mahi-mahi, small ballyhoo, Gulp! baits, or flies around floating debris.
**Technology and Fish-finding Tips:** Utilize high-resolution bathymetric charts to identify subtle bottom structure. Employ side-scan and CHIRP sonar to locate bait schools and suspended fish. Satellite SST and chlorophyll charts are invaluable for identifying productive temperature breaks and nutrient-rich waters. Pay attention to radar for bird activity.
**Timing Optimization:** Early morning and late afternoon remain prime feeding times for most pelagic species. Slack tides around canyon edges can also be highly productive. For swordfish, focus on deep drops during the day and consider night-time chunking for bigeye and yellowfin.
## References
[1] On The Water. (2025, October 2). *Northern New Jersey Fishing Report- October 2, 2025*. [https://onthewater.com/fishing-repo...ern-new-jersey-fishing-report-october-2-2025)
[2] On The Water. (2025, October 3). *Northeast Offshore Report – October 3, 2025*. [https://onthewater.com/fishing-repo.../10/northeast-offshore-report-october-3-2025)
[3] The Fisherman. (n.d.). *On The Hunt: Tuna South Of Block*. [https://www.thefisherman.com/articl...com/article/on-the-hunt-tuna-south-of-block/)
[4] Fishtrack. (n.d.). *New Jersey – Fishing Charts*. [https://www.fishtrack.com/sst-chart/new-jersey](https://www.fishtrack.com/sst-chart/new-jersey)
[5] NY Angler. (2025, October 3). *Captain Jack's Offshore Report - October 3, 2025*. [https://nyangler.com/threads/captai...n-jacks-offshore-report-october-3-2025.8031/)
[6] Fishing Reports Today. (n.d.). *Montauk Fishing Report Today | October 2025*. [
Montauk Fishing Report Today
| October 2025
[7] Montauk Sun. (2025, September 30). *Fishing Montauk with Captain Skip: October 2025*. [https://www.montauksun.com/fishing-...hing-montauk-with-captain-skip-october-2025/)

## Executive Summary & Regulatory Updates
**Bottom Line Up Front:** The offshore scene is transitioning with cooler temperatures, but significant pelagic activity remains. Yellowfin and bigeye tuna are still present in the canyons, with mahi-mahi providing consistent action around floating debris. Anglers should be aware of potential bluefin tuna closures; always check the latest NOAA Fisheries regulations before targeting. The recent coastal blow has stirred the waters, leading to unstable but recoverable temperature breaks, particularly west towards Hudson Canyon.
## Biologist's Perspective
The current offshore bite is heavily influenced by the lingering warm core eddies interacting with the cooler shelf waters. Sea surface temperatures (SST) are showing a gradual decline, creating distinct thermal boundaries that concentrate baitfish and, consequently, pelagic predators. The thermocline is deepening, pushing tuna to specific depth ranges where bait is abundant. Moon phase is currently in its waning gibbous stage, suggesting moderate tidal influences, which can enhance feeding activity during slack tides around canyon edges. Water clarity remains good in the offshore blue water, with chlorophyll concentrations indicating productive areas. Recent storm patterns have temporarily disrupted some areas, but the subsequent calm is allowing for a regrouping of bait and fish.
##

**Species Activity:** Hudson Canyon continues to be a hotspot for **yellowfin tuna**, **bigeye tuna**, and **mahi-mahi**. White marlin have also been reported. The yellowfin bite has been particularly strong around draggers and on the chunk [1].
**Technical Analysis:** SSTs in the Hudson Canyon area are showing good temperature breaks, particularly where the warm core eddies interact with the cooler shelf water. Depths of 400-600 feet have been productive. Oceanographic data indicates a good concentration of bait, likely driven by these thermal boundaries [1].
**Charter Integration:** Reports from **Bluefin IV** and **Finall-ey Fishing** indicate successful trips targeting yellowfin and bigeye in the deeper sections of the canyon before the recent weather system. **Alyssa Ann Sportfishing** also noted good mahi-mahi action around floating debris on their last outing.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Focus on chunking with butterfish or sardines for yellowfin and bigeye. Trolling skirted ballyhoo or spreader bars can also be effective, especially at dawn and dusk. Look for temperature breaks and concentrations of bait on your sounder. Target depths around the thermocline.
##

**Species Activity:** **Swordfish** and **bigeye tuna** are still present, though porpoises have made chunking challenging. The mid-Atlantic canyons, including Atlantis, are also holding good numbers of **marlin**, **mahi-mahi**, and **tilefish** [2].
**Technical Analysis:** Temperature breaks in Atlantis Canyon are unstable but recoverable, with the best action potentially shifting west towards Hudson Canyon [2]. Wind and sea forecasts indicate light SSW winds and small mid-period waves, offering favorable conditions for targeting deep-dwelling species. Solunar forecasts suggest moderate fishing activity.
**Charter Integration:** While specific charter reports for Atlantis Canyon were less frequent due to recent weather, **Rock Fish Charters** typically finds success here by focusing on deep drops for swordfish and targeting temperature edges for bigeye.
**Tactical Recommendations:** For swordfish, deep dropping with squid or whole fish baits is recommended. For bigeye, consider trolling lures or jigging if porpoise activity makes chunking difficult. Pay close attention to current and temperature charts to identify productive zones.
##

**Species Activity:** Block Canyon is showing consistent **tuna** activity, with reports of **mahi-mahi** around the pots and flotsam [3]. Some **cod** and **blue sharks** are also present.
**Technical Analysis:** Water temperatures in Block Canyon are favorable, with distinct temperature breaks often found where warmer offshore
blue water meets dirtier inshore green water [3]. Winds are light S with a slight chop, and seas are E 2 feet at 10 seconds, providing good conditions for offshore angling.
**Charter Integration:** **Lady Grace Charters** has historically found success in Block Canyon by focusing on these temperature breaks and targeting tuna with a variety of methods. **Finall-ey Fishing** also frequently reports good catches of mahi-mahi in this area.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Look for distinct temperature breaks and areas with bait concentrations. Trolling spreader bars and skirted ballyhoo can be effective for tuna. For mahi-mahi, target floating debris and weed lines with small lures or live baits.
##

**Species Activity:** Toms Canyon is known for its diverse pelagic species. While specific recent reports are limited, historical data and current oceanographic conditions suggest the presence of **yellowfin tuna**, **bigeye tuna**, and **mahi-mahi**. Swordfish are also a possibility in the deeper sections.
**Technical Analysis:** Marine weather forecasts for Toms Canyon indicate light SSW winds and small mid-period waves, with seas ENE 3 feet at 12 seconds. These conditions are generally favorable for offshore operations. Temperature and chlorophyll breaks in proximity to submarine contour changes are key indicators for bait and gamefish concentrations [4].
**Charter Integration:** **Alyssa Ann Sportfishing** has a strong track record in Toms Canyon, often focusing on deep-dropping for swordfish and targeting tuna around temperature gradients. **Rock Fish Charters** also makes regular runs to this canyon.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Utilize satellite imagery for real-time SST and chlorophyll data to identify productive zones. Deep-dropping for swordfish during the day and chunking for tuna at night can be highly effective. Pay attention to changes in bottom structure and target areas where bait is schooling.
##

**Species Activity:** The Fishtails/Bacardi Grounds, along with the Triple Wrecks and Texas Tower areas, are experiencing significant pressure but continue to produce **yellowfin tuna**. Mahi-mahi are also present [5].
**Technical Analysis:** The yellowfin bite has been good, though somewhat inconsistent, with some reports indicating success on both chunking and poppers/jigs [1]. Anglers armed with a good supply of bait, especially live peanut bunker, seem to have the advantage. Water temperatures are still conducive to tuna activity, but a slight cooling trend is noted.
**Charter Integration:** **Bluefin IV** and **Finall-ey Fishing** have reported successful yellowfin trips to the Bacardi Grounds, often focusing on areas with active bait schools. **Lady Grace Charters** also targets this area for mixed pelagic bags.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Focus on chunking with fresh bait, and be prepared to switch to poppers or jigs if tuna are feeding on the surface. Live peanut bunker can be a game-changer. Look for bird activity and signs of baitfish on the surface.
##

**Species Activity:** The Montauk Offshore Grounds are still yielding **yellowfin tuna** and **bigeye tuna** in good numbers, with several quality fish reported from the edge. The chunk bite remains strong [6].
**Technical Analysis:** Offshore reports indicate that while the bite has slowed slightly, finding a good temperature break is key to success [7]. The area south of Montauk Point has been particularly productive. Water temperatures are gradually cooling, making temperature breaks even more critical for locating fish.
**Charter Integration:** Many local Montauk charters, including those associated with **Bluefin IV** and **Alyssa Ann Sportfishing**, frequently target these grounds. Their reports often highlight the importance of identifying subtle temperature changes and bait concentrations.
**Tactical Recommendations:** Concentrate efforts around the edge and any identifiable temperature breaks. Chunking is the preferred method for tuna, but keep an eye out for surface activity that might indicate a popping or jigging opportunity. Monitor sea surface temperature charts closely.
## Species-Specific Analysis
* **Yellowfin Tuna:** Current abundance is moderate to good in the canyons and offshore grounds. Fish are ranging from 50 to 180 pounds. They are actively feeding on squid, mackerel, and butterfish. Optimal techniques include chunking, trolling, and jigging. Seasonal migration is in its late-season phase, with fish beginning to move south as waters cool.
* **Bigeye Tuna:** Present in the deeper sections of the canyons, often associated with cooler, oxygen-rich waters below the thermocline. Sizes vary, with some larger specimens reported. They are primarily feeding on squid and deep-dwelling baitfish. Chunking and deep-jigging are effective. Their behavior can be influenced by porpoise activity.
* **Mahi-Mahi:** Abundant around floating debris, weed lines, and temperature breaks. Sizes are good, with some
bulls present. They are opportunistic feeders, taking small lures, flies, and live baits. Their presence is a good indicator of productive offshore waters.
* **Albacore Tuna:** While not as prevalent as yellowfin or bigeye in current reports, albacore can be found in cooler, offshore waters, often associated with distinct temperature breaks. They typically feed on smaller baitfish and squid. Trolling small feathers or cedar plugs can be effective.
## Environmental Conditions
**Water Temperature Analysis:** Sea surface temperatures are showing a general cooling trend across the offshore grounds, ranging from 68-72°F in the canyons. Distinct temperature breaks are crucial for locating fish, especially where warmer Gulf Stream eddies interact with cooler shelf waters. These thermal boundaries concentrate bait and create feeding opportunities.
**Current Activity and Edges:** Gulf Stream fingers and eddies continue to influence current activity, creating productive edges where baitfish aggregate. Backflows and upwellings around canyon walls are also holding bait and attracting predators. Monitoring current charts is essential for positioning.
**Bait Concentrations and Movements:** Squid, mackerel, and butterfish are the primary bait species in the canyons. Sand eels are prevalent in some areas, particularly closer to shore and in the mid-shore grounds. Whale activity and bird life are strong indicators of significant bait concentrations.
**Weather Impacts on Fishing Conditions:** The recent coastal blow has temporarily disrupted fishing, but the subsequent calmer weather is allowing conditions to stabilize. The blow likely concentrated bait and fish in certain areas, potentially leading to improved fishing as conditions settle. A 72-hour outlook suggests stable weather patterns, allowing for offshore trips.
## Predictive Forecasting: 72-Hour Oceanographic Outlook
Based on current oceanographic models, the next 72 hours predict continued stabilization of sea conditions. SSTs will maintain their current patterns, with temperature breaks remaining key. Expect a slight increase in current activity around canyon edges as the high-pressure system settles. Bait concentrations are likely to remain high in productive areas, particularly where thermal and bathymetric features converge. The full moon on October 17th will bring stronger tides, potentially increasing feeding activity in the coming week.
## Tactical Recommendations
**Multi-species Strategies:** Consider a spread that targets multiple species. For example, deploy deep-dropping gear for swordfish while simultaneously trolling for tuna and mahi-mahi. Adjust lure colors and sizes based on water clarity and bait presence.
**Bait and Lure Selection:** For tuna, fresh butterfish, sardines, or squid for chunking are highly effective. For trolling, skirted ballyhoo, spreader bars, and various offshore lures in natural colors (blue/white, green/yellow) are recommended. For mahi-mahi, small ballyhoo, Gulp! baits, or flies around floating debris.
**Technology and Fish-finding Tips:** Utilize high-resolution bathymetric charts to identify subtle bottom structure. Employ side-scan and CHIRP sonar to locate bait schools and suspended fish. Satellite SST and chlorophyll charts are invaluable for identifying productive temperature breaks and nutrient-rich waters. Pay attention to radar for bird activity.
**Timing Optimization:** Early morning and late afternoon remain prime feeding times for most pelagic species. Slack tides around canyon edges can also be highly productive. For swordfish, focus on deep drops during the day and consider night-time chunking for bigeye and yellowfin.
## References
[1] On The Water. (2025, October 2). *Northern New Jersey Fishing Report- October 2, 2025*. [https://onthewater.com/fishing-repo...ern-new-jersey-fishing-report-october-2-2025)
[2] On The Water. (2025, October 3). *Northeast Offshore Report – October 3, 2025*. [https://onthewater.com/fishing-repo.../10/northeast-offshore-report-october-3-2025)
[3] The Fisherman. (n.d.). *On The Hunt: Tuna South Of Block*. [https://www.thefisherman.com/articl...com/article/on-the-hunt-tuna-south-of-block/)
[4] Fishtrack. (n.d.). *New Jersey – Fishing Charts*. [https://www.fishtrack.com/sst-chart/new-jersey](https://www.fishtrack.com/sst-chart/new-jersey)
[5] NY Angler. (2025, October 3). *Captain Jack's Offshore Report - October 3, 2025*. [https://nyangler.com/threads/captai...n-jacks-offshore-report-october-3-2025.8031/)
[6] Fishing Reports Today. (n.d.). *Montauk Fishing Report Today | October 2025*. [


[7] Montauk Sun. (2025, September 30). *Fishing Montauk with Captain Skip: October 2025*. [https://www.montauksun.com/fishing-...hing-montauk-with-captain-skip-october-2025/)