The ocean's got a certain rhythm to it this time of year. The air's got a bite, the water's cooling down, but the fishing's holding strong. It's a time for patience, for reading the water, and for being in the right place at the right time. The fall run is a gift, and it's still giving.
Striped Bass
The bass fishing has been a thing of beauty. We're seeing a great mix of fish, from schoolies to cows, and they're feeding with a purpose. The inlets, from Jones to Fire Island, have been the place to be. The fish are keyed in on the bunker and sand eel schools, so matching the hatch is the name of the game. Shads, jigs, and live bait have all been producing. It's not a numbers game every day, but the quality of the fish is there. The big girls are on the move, and if you put in your time, you'll be rewarded.
Blackfish
The tog bite is as good as it gets. The local reefs and wrecks are holding plenty of fish, and we're seeing a lot of keepers coming over the rails. It's that classic drop-and-stick fishing. Find a piece of structure, drop a green crab, and hold on. The bite should only get better as the water continues to cool.
Bluefin Tuna
Now, here's the thing. There are giant bluefin tuna mixed in with the bass. It's a sight to behold, and it gets the heart pumping. But the fishery is closed. It's strictly catch and release. Be mindful of the regulations, and handle these fish with care if you're lucky enough to hook one. It's a special thing to see these fish in our local waters, and we need to respect them.
The Takeaway
The fishing is good, real good. The weather has been a challenge, but when you get a window, it's been worth it. The bass are here, the tog are chewing, and the bluefin are putting on a show. It's a great time to be on the water. Be safe, be patient, and enjoy the ride.
Striped Bass
The bass fishing has been a thing of beauty. We're seeing a great mix of fish, from schoolies to cows, and they're feeding with a purpose. The inlets, from Jones to Fire Island, have been the place to be. The fish are keyed in on the bunker and sand eel schools, so matching the hatch is the name of the game. Shads, jigs, and live bait have all been producing. It's not a numbers game every day, but the quality of the fish is there. The big girls are on the move, and if you put in your time, you'll be rewarded.
Blackfish
The tog bite is as good as it gets. The local reefs and wrecks are holding plenty of fish, and we're seeing a lot of keepers coming over the rails. It's that classic drop-and-stick fishing. Find a piece of structure, drop a green crab, and hold on. The bite should only get better as the water continues to cool.
Bluefin Tuna
Now, here's the thing. There are giant bluefin tuna mixed in with the bass. It's a sight to behold, and it gets the heart pumping. But the fishery is closed. It's strictly catch and release. Be mindful of the regulations, and handle these fish with care if you're lucky enough to hook one. It's a special thing to see these fish in our local waters, and we need to respect them.
The Takeaway
The fishing is good, real good. The weather has been a challenge, but when you get a window, it's been worth it. The bass are here, the tog are chewing, and the bluefin are putting on a show. It's a great time to be on the water. Be safe, be patient, and enjoy the ride.
