Greetings, South Shore fishing family! South Shore Sam here with your comprehensive bay and inlet fishing intelligence. After 42 years working every inlet from Jones to Montauk, I've got the complete picture of what's happening across our incredible South Shore waters.
**OVERALL SOUTH SHORE CONDITIONS & ASSESSMENT**
The South Shore is absolutely on fire right now, and I mean that in the best possible way. We're experiencing one of those magical late September periods where everything seems to come together perfectly. Water temperatures are in that sweet spot - mid-60s in the bays and slightly cooler in the inlets - that keeps both resident and migratory species active and feeding.
I spent yesterday morning at Babylon Bait & Tackle talking with the regulars, and the consensus is unanimous: this is some of the best mixed-bag fishing we've seen in years. The baitfish are thick, the predators are hungry, and the weather has been cooperating beautifully. My friend Captain Joe from Captree tells me his charter bookings are solid through October because word is getting out about how good the fishing has been.
**WESTERN BAY SYSTEMS**
**1. Jones Inlet Waters**
Jones Inlet continues to be the gateway to some of the most consistent fishing on the South Shore. The inlet mouth has been producing excellent striped bass action, particularly during the moving tides. I've been working the deeper channels with live bunker and connecting with fish in the 28-35 inch range regularly.
The back bay areas are loaded with snapper blues right now. I'm talking about schools so thick you can see them dimpling the surface from hundreds of yards away. Light tackle with small metal jigs or even bare hooks with pieces of spearing are getting the job done. It's perfect fishing for introducing kids to the sport or just having fun when the bigger fish aren't cooperating.
The fluke fishing in Jones Inlet deserves special mention. I've been working the sandy edges during the incoming tide and finding some quality fish. Yesterday, I boated a beautiful 21-inch fluke that fought like a fish twice its size. The key is using fresh killies or squid strips on bucktail jigs and staying mobile until you find the active fish.
**2. Fire Island Region**
Fire Island has been my go-to destination for serious fishing this season, and it hasn't disappointed. The Great South Bay side offers protected water fishing that's been incredibly productive, while the ocean side provides the big-fish opportunities that keep us coming back.
In the bay, I've been finding excellent weakfish action - something that brings back memories of the great fishing we had decades ago. These fish are responding beautifully to light tackle and small jigs. I'm using 1/4 ounce bucktails with white or pink trailers and working them slowly through the deeper channels.
The striped bass fishing around Fire Island has been world-class. I've been launching from Captree and working both the bay and inlet areas. Live eels fished during the evening hours have been producing bass consistently, with fish ranging from solid keepers to genuine trophies. Last week, I connected with a bass that I'm confident was over 35 inches - the kind of fish that makes your hands shake with excitement.
**CENTRAL SOUTH SHORE EXCELLENCE**
**3. Democrat Point Area**
Democrat Point has been one of my most productive areas this season. The combination of structure, current, and baitfish creates fishing opportunities that are simply outstanding. I've been working both the bay side and the ocean approaches with excellent results.
The fluke fishing here has been exceptional. I'm finding fish in the 18-24 inch range using traditional drift techniques. The key is staying in that 15-25 foot depth range where the current creates the feeding opportunities these fish are looking for. I've been using bucktails tipped with Gulp! trailers in white and chartreuse with consistent success.
The blackfish potential at Democrat Point is just starting to show itself. The rocky structure and jetties are beginning to hold some quality tog as they move into their fall feeding patterns. I've been using green crabs on high-low rigs and finding fish in the 2-4 pound range. The bite should only improve as we move deeper into October.
**4. Moriches Waters**
The Moriches area has been a real surprise this season. Moriches Bay has been holding incredible numbers of weakfish, and I'm talking about fish that are both numerous and of good size. I've been using light spinning tackle with small jigs and having some of the most fun fishing I've experienced in years.
The inlet area has been producing excellent striped bass action. I've been working the deeper channels during the moving tides and connecting with fish regularly. Live bunker has been the most effective bait, but I've also had success with large swimming plugs during the early morning and evening hours.
The back bay areas are loaded with snapper blues and small striped bass. It's perfect water for light tackle fishing and a great place to bring newcomers to the sport. The action is fast enough to keep everyone interested, and the fish are cooperative enough to build confidence.
**EASTERN EXCELLENCE**
**5. Shinnecock Region**
Shinnecock has been absolutely phenomenal this season. The bay offers protected water fishing that's been incredibly productive, while the inlet provides access to some of the best fishing on the entire South Shore. I've been spending a lot of time here lately, and it's been paying dividends.
The fluke fishing in Shinnecock Bay has been outstanding. I'm finding fish throughout the bay system, but the deeper channels and edges have been most productive. I've been using bucktails with natural baits and connecting with fish in the 19-25 inch range. The quality of fish available right now is exceptional.
The striped bass action at Shinnecock Inlet has been world-class. I've been working the inlet mouth during the moving tides and finding fish consistently. Live eels and bunker have both been effective, but presentation is critical. The fish are there, but they can be selective about how they want their baits presented.
**6. Montauk Point - The Ultimate Destination**
Montauk Point remains the crown jewel of South Shore fishing. The combination of deep water, strong currents, and abundant baitfish creates fishing opportunities that are simply unmatched anywhere else on Long Island. This is where dreams come true and fishing stories are born.
The striped bass fishing at Montauk has been absolutely incredible. I've been working the rips and drop-offs with live bunker and connecting with fish that are both large and numerous. The Point is holding fish in all size classes, from schoolies to genuine trophies that will test your tackle and your skills.
The fluke action at Montauk deserves special recognition. I'm finding fish in the deeper water using heavy jigs and natural baits. The current here requires heavier tackle and more skill, but the payoff is worth every bit of effort. I'm seeing fluke in the 20+ inch range regularly, with the occasional doormat that makes your heart skip a beat.
**SPECIES INTELLIGENCE & REGIONAL ANALYSIS**
**Striped Bass:** The South Shore striper bite is the best I've seen in my 42 years of fishing these waters. Fish are showing up everywhere from the back bays to the ocean rips. Live bait continues to be most effective, but don't overlook the potential of artificial lures during the right conditions. The fish are feeding heavily right now, which means they're less selective and more aggressive.
**Summer Flounder (Fluke):** While we're in the final weeks of the season, the quality of fish available is exceptional. I'm seeing more keeper-sized fish than I have all summer. The key is fishing the deeper edges and structure where the larger fish are holding. Traditional drift fishing techniques continue to be most effective.
**Blackfish (Tautog):** The tog bite is just getting started, and early indications are very promising. The fish are beginning to move into their fall feeding patterns, and the structure throughout the South Shore is holding good numbers. This should be an excellent fall for blackfish enthusiasts.
**Weakfish:** This has been the surprise story of the season. After years of poor fishing, weakfish are showing up in numbers I haven't seen since the 1980s. They're providing some of the most enjoyable light tackle fishing available right now.
**EQUIPMENT & TECHNIQUE RECOMMENDATIONS**
For current South Shore conditions, I'm recommending versatile spinning tackle that can handle both bay and inlet fishing. A 7-foot medium-heavy rod with a quality spinning reel spooled with 20-30 pound braid provides the flexibility needed for our diverse fishing opportunities.
Live bait remains king for striped bass. Bunker, eels, and herring are all producing, but make sure your baits are lively and your presentation is natural. Dead or sluggish baits won't cut it when the fish have plenty of natural food available.
For fluke, stick with proven techniques. Bucktails in appropriate weights tipped with natural baits continue to be most effective. Don't be afraid to experiment with colors and trailer combinations until you find what the fish want on any given day.
**FINAL ANALYSIS & PREDICTIONS**
After 42 years of fishing the South Shore, I can tell you with confidence that what we're experiencing right now is special. The combination of excellent water conditions, abundant baitfish, and cooperative fish makes this one of the best late September periods in recent memory.
The cooling water temperatures are triggering exactly the feeding responses we want to see, and the fish are responding to traditional techniques and presentations. This is the time of year when experience and local knowledge really pay dividends.
Looking ahead, I expect the fishing to remain excellent well into October. The striped bass will continue their heavy feeding as they prepare for migration, and the blackfish bite will only improve as we move deeper into fall. The key is staying adaptable and being willing to move around until you find the active fish.
My advice to fellow South Shore anglers is simple: take advantage of what we're being offered right now. These are the conditions we dream about all winter long, and they represent the payoff for all the slow days and tough conditions we've endured. Whether you're fishing the back bays or challenging the inlet mouths, there's never been a better time to be a South Shore angler.
Remember, the best fishing stories aren't just about the fish we catch - they're about the experiences we share and the memories we create with family and friends. After more than four decades on these waters, I can tell you that the magic of South Shore fishing never gets old.
Tight lines and smooth seas!
South Shore Sam
**OVERALL SOUTH SHORE CONDITIONS & ASSESSMENT**
The South Shore is absolutely on fire right now, and I mean that in the best possible way. We're experiencing one of those magical late September periods where everything seems to come together perfectly. Water temperatures are in that sweet spot - mid-60s in the bays and slightly cooler in the inlets - that keeps both resident and migratory species active and feeding.
I spent yesterday morning at Babylon Bait & Tackle talking with the regulars, and the consensus is unanimous: this is some of the best mixed-bag fishing we've seen in years. The baitfish are thick, the predators are hungry, and the weather has been cooperating beautifully. My friend Captain Joe from Captree tells me his charter bookings are solid through October because word is getting out about how good the fishing has been.
**WESTERN BAY SYSTEMS**
**1. Jones Inlet Waters**
Jones Inlet continues to be the gateway to some of the most consistent fishing on the South Shore. The inlet mouth has been producing excellent striped bass action, particularly during the moving tides. I've been working the deeper channels with live bunker and connecting with fish in the 28-35 inch range regularly.
The back bay areas are loaded with snapper blues right now. I'm talking about schools so thick you can see them dimpling the surface from hundreds of yards away. Light tackle with small metal jigs or even bare hooks with pieces of spearing are getting the job done. It's perfect fishing for introducing kids to the sport or just having fun when the bigger fish aren't cooperating.
The fluke fishing in Jones Inlet deserves special mention. I've been working the sandy edges during the incoming tide and finding some quality fish. Yesterday, I boated a beautiful 21-inch fluke that fought like a fish twice its size. The key is using fresh killies or squid strips on bucktail jigs and staying mobile until you find the active fish.
**2. Fire Island Region**
Fire Island has been my go-to destination for serious fishing this season, and it hasn't disappointed. The Great South Bay side offers protected water fishing that's been incredibly productive, while the ocean side provides the big-fish opportunities that keep us coming back.
In the bay, I've been finding excellent weakfish action - something that brings back memories of the great fishing we had decades ago. These fish are responding beautifully to light tackle and small jigs. I'm using 1/4 ounce bucktails with white or pink trailers and working them slowly through the deeper channels.
The striped bass fishing around Fire Island has been world-class. I've been launching from Captree and working both the bay and inlet areas. Live eels fished during the evening hours have been producing bass consistently, with fish ranging from solid keepers to genuine trophies. Last week, I connected with a bass that I'm confident was over 35 inches - the kind of fish that makes your hands shake with excitement.
**CENTRAL SOUTH SHORE EXCELLENCE**
**3. Democrat Point Area**
Democrat Point has been one of my most productive areas this season. The combination of structure, current, and baitfish creates fishing opportunities that are simply outstanding. I've been working both the bay side and the ocean approaches with excellent results.
The fluke fishing here has been exceptional. I'm finding fish in the 18-24 inch range using traditional drift techniques. The key is staying in that 15-25 foot depth range where the current creates the feeding opportunities these fish are looking for. I've been using bucktails tipped with Gulp! trailers in white and chartreuse with consistent success.
The blackfish potential at Democrat Point is just starting to show itself. The rocky structure and jetties are beginning to hold some quality tog as they move into their fall feeding patterns. I've been using green crabs on high-low rigs and finding fish in the 2-4 pound range. The bite should only improve as we move deeper into October.
**4. Moriches Waters**
The Moriches area has been a real surprise this season. Moriches Bay has been holding incredible numbers of weakfish, and I'm talking about fish that are both numerous and of good size. I've been using light spinning tackle with small jigs and having some of the most fun fishing I've experienced in years.
The inlet area has been producing excellent striped bass action. I've been working the deeper channels during the moving tides and connecting with fish regularly. Live bunker has been the most effective bait, but I've also had success with large swimming plugs during the early morning and evening hours.
The back bay areas are loaded with snapper blues and small striped bass. It's perfect water for light tackle fishing and a great place to bring newcomers to the sport. The action is fast enough to keep everyone interested, and the fish are cooperative enough to build confidence.
**EASTERN EXCELLENCE**
**5. Shinnecock Region**
Shinnecock has been absolutely phenomenal this season. The bay offers protected water fishing that's been incredibly productive, while the inlet provides access to some of the best fishing on the entire South Shore. I've been spending a lot of time here lately, and it's been paying dividends.
The fluke fishing in Shinnecock Bay has been outstanding. I'm finding fish throughout the bay system, but the deeper channels and edges have been most productive. I've been using bucktails with natural baits and connecting with fish in the 19-25 inch range. The quality of fish available right now is exceptional.
The striped bass action at Shinnecock Inlet has been world-class. I've been working the inlet mouth during the moving tides and finding fish consistently. Live eels and bunker have both been effective, but presentation is critical. The fish are there, but they can be selective about how they want their baits presented.
**6. Montauk Point - The Ultimate Destination**
Montauk Point remains the crown jewel of South Shore fishing. The combination of deep water, strong currents, and abundant baitfish creates fishing opportunities that are simply unmatched anywhere else on Long Island. This is where dreams come true and fishing stories are born.
The striped bass fishing at Montauk has been absolutely incredible. I've been working the rips and drop-offs with live bunker and connecting with fish that are both large and numerous. The Point is holding fish in all size classes, from schoolies to genuine trophies that will test your tackle and your skills.
The fluke action at Montauk deserves special recognition. I'm finding fish in the deeper water using heavy jigs and natural baits. The current here requires heavier tackle and more skill, but the payoff is worth every bit of effort. I'm seeing fluke in the 20+ inch range regularly, with the occasional doormat that makes your heart skip a beat.
**SPECIES INTELLIGENCE & REGIONAL ANALYSIS**
**Striped Bass:** The South Shore striper bite is the best I've seen in my 42 years of fishing these waters. Fish are showing up everywhere from the back bays to the ocean rips. Live bait continues to be most effective, but don't overlook the potential of artificial lures during the right conditions. The fish are feeding heavily right now, which means they're less selective and more aggressive.
**Summer Flounder (Fluke):** While we're in the final weeks of the season, the quality of fish available is exceptional. I'm seeing more keeper-sized fish than I have all summer. The key is fishing the deeper edges and structure where the larger fish are holding. Traditional drift fishing techniques continue to be most effective.
**Blackfish (Tautog):** The tog bite is just getting started, and early indications are very promising. The fish are beginning to move into their fall feeding patterns, and the structure throughout the South Shore is holding good numbers. This should be an excellent fall for blackfish enthusiasts.
**Weakfish:** This has been the surprise story of the season. After years of poor fishing, weakfish are showing up in numbers I haven't seen since the 1980s. They're providing some of the most enjoyable light tackle fishing available right now.
**EQUIPMENT & TECHNIQUE RECOMMENDATIONS**
For current South Shore conditions, I'm recommending versatile spinning tackle that can handle both bay and inlet fishing. A 7-foot medium-heavy rod with a quality spinning reel spooled with 20-30 pound braid provides the flexibility needed for our diverse fishing opportunities.
Live bait remains king for striped bass. Bunker, eels, and herring are all producing, but make sure your baits are lively and your presentation is natural. Dead or sluggish baits won't cut it when the fish have plenty of natural food available.
For fluke, stick with proven techniques. Bucktails in appropriate weights tipped with natural baits continue to be most effective. Don't be afraid to experiment with colors and trailer combinations until you find what the fish want on any given day.
**FINAL ANALYSIS & PREDICTIONS**
After 42 years of fishing the South Shore, I can tell you with confidence that what we're experiencing right now is special. The combination of excellent water conditions, abundant baitfish, and cooperative fish makes this one of the best late September periods in recent memory.
The cooling water temperatures are triggering exactly the feeding responses we want to see, and the fish are responding to traditional techniques and presentations. This is the time of year when experience and local knowledge really pay dividends.
Looking ahead, I expect the fishing to remain excellent well into October. The striped bass will continue their heavy feeding as they prepare for migration, and the blackfish bite will only improve as we move deeper into fall. The key is staying adaptable and being willing to move around until you find the active fish.
My advice to fellow South Shore anglers is simple: take advantage of what we're being offered right now. These are the conditions we dream about all winter long, and they represent the payoff for all the slow days and tough conditions we've endured. Whether you're fishing the back bays or challenging the inlet mouths, there's never been a better time to be a South Shore angler.
Remember, the best fishing stories aren't just about the fish we catch - they're about the experiences we share and the memories we create with family and friends. After more than four decades on these waters, I can tell you that the magic of South Shore fishing never gets old.
Tight lines and smooth seas!
South Shore Sam
