Susie Angler
Administrator
New York Saltwater Fishing Report - July 15, 2025
By Manus AI | Daily Fishing Intelligence
By Manus AI | Daily Fishing Intelligence
Executive SummaryThe New York saltwater fishing scene is experiencing exceptional conditions as we move through mid-July 2025, with multiple species showing strong activity patterns across all major fishing zones from the Hudson River to Montauk Point. Current marine conditions are creating optimal fishing opportunities, with stable barometric pressure at 30.06 inches, moderate water temperatures averaging 71°F, and favorable tidal coefficients supporting active feeding behavior across target species.
Today's analysis reveals particularly strong fishing for sea bass with charter fleets reporting full boat limits consistently, excellent fluke action with keepers to 6+ pounds, and the long-awaited arrival of bunker schools in Long Island Sound triggering increased striped bass activity. The mystery of vanishing bunker schools that plagued early season fishing appears to be resolving, with baitfish concentrations now supporting sustained predator activity from the western Sound through Montauk waters.
Key Highlights:• Sea Bass: Full boat limits consistently reported
• Fluke: Keepers to 6+ pounds, excellent action
• Striped Bass: Bunker schools finally arrived in LI Sound
• Tuna: 40-60 inch fish near shore - exceptional opportunity!
• Water Temp: Ideal 71°F average, 80°F surface
• Pressure: Stable at 30.06" - perfect for feeding
Marine Conditions & Fish Behavior ImpactCurrent Environmental Factors
The marine environment surrounding New York waters is currently exhibiting conditions that experienced anglers recognize as prime fishing weather. Barometric pressure has stabilized at 30.06 inches, a reading that falls within the optimal range for sustained fish feeding activity. When pressure remains steady in this range, it eliminates the stress factors that typically cause fish to suspend feeding during rapid pressure changes.
Water temperatures are holding at an ideal 71°F average, with surface temperatures reaching 80°F during peak afternoon hours. This temperature gradient creates thermoclines that concentrate baitfish at specific depths, making predator fish more predictable in their positioning.
Tidal Dynamics and Solunar InfluenceToday's tidal coefficient of 60 represents moderate tidal strength, creating sufficient water movement to trigger feeding responses. The major solunar periods occurring at 6:19 AM and 6:44 PM align perfectly with the incoming tide phases, creating what experienced anglers call "double-trigger" conditions.
Wind and Sea State ImpactCurrent wind conditions are light to moderate from the southwest, creating manageable sea states across all fishing zones. Southwest winds are particularly favorable for New York fishing as they push warmer surface water toward shore, concentrating baitfish in nearshore areas.
Bait Situation and Ecosystem HealthThe recent arrival of bunker schools in Long Island Sound represents a significant shift in the local ecosystem that directly impacts fishing success. Bunker (menhaden) are a keystone baitfish species that supports the entire predator fish food web in New York waters. Sand eels are also present in significant numbers, particularly in offshore areas around Montauk.
Species Activity Analysis Striped Bass - Prime Summer PatternsStriped bass fishing has transitioned into classic summer patterns with fish establishing themselves on deepwater ledges and structure throughout Long Island Sound and offshore areas. The arrival of bunker schools has triggered increased feeding activity, with fish showing more predictable behavior patterns. Current reports indicate fish ranging from schoolie size up to 30+ pounds.
The fish are exhibiting typical summer behavior, moving to deeper, cooler water during peak daylight hours and moving shallower during dawn, dusk, and nighttime periods. Water temperature preferences are driving fish to seek the 65-70°F temperature range, currently found at depths of 15-25 feet in most areas.
Fluke (Summer Flounder) - Exceptional ActionFluke fishing is experiencing one of the strongest periods of the season, with consistent reports of keeper-sized fish and specimens exceeding 6 pounds being taken across multiple fishing zones. The combination of optimal water temperatures, abundant bait, and stable weather conditions is creating ideal feeding conditions.
Current depth preferences show fish in 6-10 feet of water in bay areas, with larger specimens often found in 15-25 feet along ocean-side structure and inlet areas. Size distribution shows a healthy mix of keeper and trophy-class fish.
Sea Bass - Outstanding Numbers and QualityBlack sea bass fishing is experiencing exceptional conditions with charter fleets consistently reporting full boat limits and quality fish in the 2-3 pound range. Current reports indicate fish are holding in 20-40 feet of water, with larger specimens often found in slightly deeper water around more complex structure.
The fish are showing aggressive feeding behavior throughout the day, with peak activity occurring during periods of moderate current flow. Population health appears excellent based on consistent limit catches.
Porgies (Scup) - Fantastic Mixed-Size ActionPorgy fishing is providing excellent action with mixed-size fish showing aggressive feeding behavior. Reports indicate fish ranging from keeper size up to 3.6 pounds, with larger specimens representing exceptional catches for this species.
Tuna - Exciting Near-Shore OpportunitiesPerhaps the most exciting development is the presence of tuna in near-shore waters, with reports of 40-60 inch fish feeding close to shore. This represents an unusual opportunity for New York anglers, as tuna typically require longer runs to offshore waters.
Regional Fishing BreakdownWestern Long Island Sound (Westchester to Nassau County)
The western Sound is experiencing significant improvement with the arrival of bunker schools. These baitfish concentrations are supporting increased striped bass activity around traditional structure and drop-offs. Current hotspots include waters around City Island, Execution Rocks, and various reefs.
Striped bass are showing classic summer behavior, holding in 15-25 feet during daylight and moving shallower during low-light periods. Fluke fishing shows steady improvement with fish concentrating around sandy areas adjacent to rocky structure.
Central Long Island Sound (Nassau to Suffolk County)
The central Sound region is experiencing excellent fishing conditions across multiple species. This mixing creates diverse fishing opportunities with multiple species often available in the same areas. Key areas include waters around Huntington Bay, Northport Bay, and various harbors.
Eastern Long Island Sound (Suffolk County to Connecticut Border)
The eastern Sound is experiencing prime fishing conditions with deeper water and more complex bottom structure supporting larger fish populations. The deeper water allows for more consistent fishing throughout the day.
South Shore Bay Systems (Jamaica Bay to Shinnecock)
The south shore bay systems are experiencing excellent fishing conditions with protected waters providing ideal environments. Jamaica Bay continues to provide excellent opportunities, while Great South Bay shows particularly strong fluke fishing.
Ocean Waters and Inlet Areas
Ocean waters are experiencing favorable conditions with moderate seas and good water clarity. Montauk Point continues to provide world-class fishing opportunities with excellent fishing for multiple species.
3-Day Fishing ForecastTuesday, July 15, 2025 (Today)
North Shore (Hudson River to Long Island Sound)
Current conditions are optimal for fishing across the entire North Shore region. Light southwest winds of 5-10 knots creating ideal surface conditions. Major solunar periods at 6:19 AM and 6:44 PM aligning with favorable tidal conditions.
South Shore (Upper New Jersey to Shinnecock)
Excellent conditions with light onshore winds creating favorable surf conditions. Ocean conditions running 1-2 feet with good water clarity and moderate water temperatures.
Offshore Waters
Favorable for experienced anglers with seas running 2-3 feet. The presence of tuna in near-shore waters creating exceptional opportunities.
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Continued favorable conditions with light variable winds shifting to northwest 5-15 knots. Barometric pressure expected to rise slightly to 30.12 inches. Major solunar periods at 7:05 AM and 7:30 PM.
Thursday, July 17, 2025
Continuation of favorable conditions with northwest winds moderating to 5-10 knots. Barometric pressure stabilizing around 30.15 inches. Major solunar periods at 7:51 AM and 8:16 PM.
Recommended Techniques and TacticsStriped Bass Strategies
With bunker schools now present, live bait fishing is producing exceptional results. For artificials, large swimming plugs and soft plastics that mimic bunker are most effective. Night fishing continues to produce the largest fish with live eels and large soft plastics.
Fluke Fishing Excellence
Drift fishing with bucktail and bait combinations remains most productive. The ideal drift speed allows bucktail to maintain bottom contact while creating enough movement to attract fish attention.
Sea Bass Mastery
High-low rigs with small hooks and natural baits like clams or squid producing consistent results around rocky bottom areas and artificial reefs.
Safety ConsiderationsWhile current conditions are generally favorable, anglers must remain aware of potential for rapid weather chan
