Well folks, if you've been waiting for the fall run to kick into high gear, your wait is over! The Sound is alive and kicking, and the blackfish opener was a real barn burner. Despite some snotty conditions from that nor'easter, the tog grounds are producing, and the bass are chewing their heads off. Let's get into it.
Blackfish Bonanza
The blackfish season started with a bang, and the bite is as good as we've seen in years. The shallow water is where it's at, with reports of quality fish coming from as shallow as 4 to 10 feet of water. The Angler Fleet out of Port Washington had a full boat limit on opening day, with fish up to 7 pounds. That's a good sign for the rest of the season. Light jigs tipped with green crabs are the ticket, and the key is to stay tight to the structure. The shore-bound guys are getting in on the action too, so don't be afraid to hit the rocks and jetties. With the water temps still on the warmer side, this bite is only going to get better as we get deeper into October.
Topwater Terror
The striped bass action has been nothing short of spectacular. The central Sound is seeing a topwater blitz, with fish up to 25 pounds inhaling spooks and pencil poppers. Captain Skippy Charters has been putting a hurting on them, and it's a sight to see. The back bays and harbors are also loaded with schoolies and some keepers mixed in, feeding on the abundance of peanut bunker and bay anchovies. If you can find the bait, you'll find the bass.
A Mixed Bag of Hardtails
For those looking for a little variety, the bonito and cocktail blues are still around, providing some fast and furious action. Keep your eyes peeled for birds working, and have your epoxy jigs and Deadly Dicks at the ready. It's a great way to break up the day and put a few more fish in the cooler.
Weekend Outlook
The weekend is looking prime for fishing. The winds are supposed to lay down, and the seas should be manageable. Saturday is looking like the pick of the litter, with light and variable winds. It's a perfect opportunity to get out there and get in on this incredible fall bite. Get 'em while they're here, because you know it won't last forever!
Tight lines,
Salty Sal
Blackfish Bonanza
The blackfish season started with a bang, and the bite is as good as we've seen in years. The shallow water is where it's at, with reports of quality fish coming from as shallow as 4 to 10 feet of water. The Angler Fleet out of Port Washington had a full boat limit on opening day, with fish up to 7 pounds. That's a good sign for the rest of the season. Light jigs tipped with green crabs are the ticket, and the key is to stay tight to the structure. The shore-bound guys are getting in on the action too, so don't be afraid to hit the rocks and jetties. With the water temps still on the warmer side, this bite is only going to get better as we get deeper into October.
Topwater Terror
The striped bass action has been nothing short of spectacular. The central Sound is seeing a topwater blitz, with fish up to 25 pounds inhaling spooks and pencil poppers. Captain Skippy Charters has been putting a hurting on them, and it's a sight to see. The back bays and harbors are also loaded with schoolies and some keepers mixed in, feeding on the abundance of peanut bunker and bay anchovies. If you can find the bait, you'll find the bass.
A Mixed Bag of Hardtails
For those looking for a little variety, the bonito and cocktail blues are still around, providing some fast and furious action. Keep your eyes peeled for birds working, and have your epoxy jigs and Deadly Dicks at the ready. It's a great way to break up the day and put a few more fish in the cooler.
Weekend Outlook
The weekend is looking prime for fishing. The winds are supposed to lay down, and the seas should be manageable. Saturday is looking like the pick of the litter, with light and variable winds. It's a perfect opportunity to get out there and get in on this incredible fall bite. Get 'em while they're here, because you know it won't last forever!
Tight lines,
Salty Sal
