Well folks, Salty Sal is back with the scoop on the Sound, and let me tell you, it's prime time. The water temperatures are hovering in that magical mid-50s range, which has the blackfish chewing and the striped bass feeding with a vengeance. The winds have been a bit of a pain, but for those who've been able to get out, the fishing has been nothing short of spectacular.
Western Sound:
The action in the western basin has been red hot. Massive schools of peanut bunker are getting pushed up against the shorelines from Manhasset Bay all the way over to the Connecticut side. The birds are working overtime, and underneath them, it's a full-on bass blitz. The topwater bite has been electric, with anglers having a field day throwing spooks and pencil poppers into the fray. While there are plenty of schoolies and slots to keep you busy, don't be surprised to find some bigger fish mixed in. The larger bass are holding a bit deeper, and those who are dropping bucktails and jigs are being rewarded with some quality fish.
Over in Northport, the squid have invaded the harbors, and the big bass are right on their tails. We're talking about fish in the 20-pound class being taken on pink and orange Yo-Zuri squid jigs. It's a great sign to see so much life in the harbors this late in the season.
Eastern Sound:
The fishing in the eastern Sound has been a bit more of a pick. The bait situation is different, with a ton of sand eels but a noticeable lack of bunker. This has made the bass a bit more scattered and the bite less consistent. However, there are still fish to be had for those who put in the time. The beaches are giving up some stripers, but you have to be in the right place at the right time.
Bottom Fishing:
The tog fishing continues to be the main event for bottom fishermen. The shallow water bite has slowed down as the water has cooled, and the fish have started to transition to deeper structure. The best reports are coming from rockpiles and wrecks in 20 to 35 feet of water. We're seeing plenty of keepers coming over the rails, with some real trophies in the mix. The sea bass are still around as well, and the bite seems to get better the farther east you go.
3-Day Forecast:
The wind is going to be a factor for the next couple of days, so pick your spots wisely. Friday looks like the best bet for getting out on the water. Stay safe out there and tight lines!
Western Sound:
The action in the western basin has been red hot. Massive schools of peanut bunker are getting pushed up against the shorelines from Manhasset Bay all the way over to the Connecticut side. The birds are working overtime, and underneath them, it's a full-on bass blitz. The topwater bite has been electric, with anglers having a field day throwing spooks and pencil poppers into the fray. While there are plenty of schoolies and slots to keep you busy, don't be surprised to find some bigger fish mixed in. The larger bass are holding a bit deeper, and those who are dropping bucktails and jigs are being rewarded with some quality fish.
Over in Northport, the squid have invaded the harbors, and the big bass are right on their tails. We're talking about fish in the 20-pound class being taken on pink and orange Yo-Zuri squid jigs. It's a great sign to see so much life in the harbors this late in the season.
Eastern Sound:
The fishing in the eastern Sound has been a bit more of a pick. The bait situation is different, with a ton of sand eels but a noticeable lack of bunker. This has made the bass a bit more scattered and the bite less consistent. However, there are still fish to be had for those who put in the time. The beaches are giving up some stripers, but you have to be in the right place at the right time.
Bottom Fishing:
The tog fishing continues to be the main event for bottom fishermen. The shallow water bite has slowed down as the water has cooled, and the fish have started to transition to deeper structure. The best reports are coming from rockpiles and wrecks in 20 to 35 feet of water. We're seeing plenty of keepers coming over the rails, with some real trophies in the mix. The sea bass are still around as well, and the bite seems to get better the farther east you go.
3-Day Forecast:
- Wednesday: W winds 20 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt. Seas 6 to 8 ft.
- Thursday: W winds 20 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt. Seas 5 to 7 ft.
- Friday: NW winds 15 to 20 kt with gusts up to 25 kt. Seas 3 to 5 ft.
The wind is going to be a factor for the next couple of days, so pick your spots wisely. Friday looks like the best bet for getting out on the water. Stay safe out there and tight lines!
