**Overall Conditions:** The South Shore is still holding a surprising amount of life for this late in the season. The water is cold, but the fish are still active in the bays and inlets, especially on the warmer, sunny days. The key is to be patient and methodical in your approach.
**Striped Bass:** While the main migration has passed, there are still some lingering striped bass to be found, particularly in the western reaches of the South Shore. The bite is inconsistent, but there are still some fish to be had for those putting in the time. The back bays and inlets are your best bet, as the fish are seeking out the warmest water they can find. Small soft plastics and jigs are the way to go, fished slowly along the bottom.
**Blackfish (Tog):** The tog bite has been a bright spot, with plenty of action and a good number of keepers being reported. The reefs and wrecks are holding fish, and the bite should remain strong as long as the water temperatures don't plummet too quickly. The Shark River Inlet and the area around Point Pleasant have been productive.
**Freshwater:** The freshwater fishing has been excellent, providing a great alternative to the saltwater scene. The local lakes and ponds are stocked with trout, and the fishing has been fantastic. The Connetquot River is also a great option for fly anglers, with plenty of stocked brookies, rainbows, and browns to be had. The panfish action has also been hot, with crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch schooled up and willing to eat small jigs and worms.
**Tactical Recommendations:** For striped bass, focus on the deeper holes in the back bays and fish slowly and deliberately. For tog, find a good piece of structure and be prepared to lose some rigs. For freshwater, don't be afraid to explore the many small ponds and lakes on the island, as they are often overlooked and can provide some great fishing.
**Striped Bass:** While the main migration has passed, there are still some lingering striped bass to be found, particularly in the western reaches of the South Shore. The bite is inconsistent, but there are still some fish to be had for those putting in the time. The back bays and inlets are your best bet, as the fish are seeking out the warmest water they can find. Small soft plastics and jigs are the way to go, fished slowly along the bottom.
**Blackfish (Tog):** The tog bite has been a bright spot, with plenty of action and a good number of keepers being reported. The reefs and wrecks are holding fish, and the bite should remain strong as long as the water temperatures don't plummet too quickly. The Shark River Inlet and the area around Point Pleasant have been productive.
**Freshwater:** The freshwater fishing has been excellent, providing a great alternative to the saltwater scene. The local lakes and ponds are stocked with trout, and the fishing has been fantastic. The Connetquot River is also a great option for fly anglers, with plenty of stocked brookies, rainbows, and browns to be had. The panfish action has also been hot, with crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch schooled up and willing to eat small jigs and worms.
**Tactical Recommendations:** For striped bass, focus on the deeper holes in the back bays and fish slowly and deliberately. For tog, find a good piece of structure and be prepared to lose some rigs. For freshwater, don't be afraid to explore the many small ponds and lakes on the island, as they are often overlooked and can provide some great fishing.
