The ocean is a funny thing. One minute it's a raging beast, and the next it's as calm as a sleeping baby. That nor'easter we had last week really stirred things up, but now that the dust has settled, the fishing is starting to get back to normal. And let me tell you, normal for this time of year is pretty darn good.
The Great Bass Migration
The fall run is on, and the big girls are making their way west. We're seeing a good push of large striped bass from Debs Inlet all the way to the Rockaways. The boats that are putting in the time are being rewarded with some real quality fish. Live bunker is the key if you can get your hands on it, but the big poppers and swimmers are also getting the job done. The surf guys are seeing some action too, especially in the white water during the blow. It's all about being in the right place at the right time, and that means putting in your hours on the beach.
Back Bay Bonanza
While the ocean is where the big girls are, the bays are still holding plenty of life. Jamaica Bay is absolutely loaded with peanut bunker, and it's only a matter of time before they flush out into the ocean and create a real feeding frenzy. In the meantime, the back bays are providing some steady action with schoolie bass and a few keepers mixed in. It's a great place to get your line tight and wait for the main event to unfold.
A Nod to the Tog
Let's not forget about the blackfish. The season just opened, and we're already seeing some impressive fish being pulled from the reefs and wrecks. The bite has been solid, with fish up to 8 pounds being reported. It's a great alternative when the bass aren't cooperating, and a good way to fill the cooler with some tasty fillets.
The Weekend Ahead
The forecast for this weekend is looking pretty good. The winds are supposed to be light, and the seas should be manageable. Saturday is shaping up to be the best day, so if you're planning on heading out, that's the day to do it. The water is still warm, the bait is thick, and the fish are hungry. It's a recipe for a great day on the water. Be safe out there, and enjoy the ride.
Catch 'em up,
South Shore Sam
The Great Bass Migration
The fall run is on, and the big girls are making their way west. We're seeing a good push of large striped bass from Debs Inlet all the way to the Rockaways. The boats that are putting in the time are being rewarded with some real quality fish. Live bunker is the key if you can get your hands on it, but the big poppers and swimmers are also getting the job done. The surf guys are seeing some action too, especially in the white water during the blow. It's all about being in the right place at the right time, and that means putting in your hours on the beach.
Back Bay Bonanza
While the ocean is where the big girls are, the bays are still holding plenty of life. Jamaica Bay is absolutely loaded with peanut bunker, and it's only a matter of time before they flush out into the ocean and create a real feeding frenzy. In the meantime, the back bays are providing some steady action with schoolie bass and a few keepers mixed in. It's a great place to get your line tight and wait for the main event to unfold.
A Nod to the Tog
Let's not forget about the blackfish. The season just opened, and we're already seeing some impressive fish being pulled from the reefs and wrecks. The bite has been solid, with fish up to 8 pounds being reported. It's a great alternative when the bass aren't cooperating, and a good way to fill the cooler with some tasty fillets.
The Weekend Ahead
The forecast for this weekend is looking pretty good. The winds are supposed to be light, and the seas should be manageable. Saturday is shaping up to be the best day, so if you're planning on heading out, that's the day to do it. The water is still warm, the bait is thick, and the fish are hungry. It's a recipe for a great day on the water. Be safe out there, and enjoy the ride.
Catch 'em up,
South Shore Sam
