The fall run of 2025 is one for the books, but all good things must come to an end. The last couple of weeks have seen the action on the ocean beaches slowly dwindle as the water temperatures drop and the migratory bass continue their journey south. The striper season officially closed on December 15th, but for the die-hard surfcasters, there was still some catch-and-release action to be had.
The key to finding late-season success has been timing. The bite has been sporadic, with short windows of intense action when the bass push the remaining schools of bunker onto the beach. Those who were lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time were rewarded with some nice fish. The western South Shore beaches saw some of the most consistent action, with bass in the teens and twenties being caught during these blitzes.
The weather has been the biggest factor, with the recent cold fronts and strong winds making for some tough conditions. The snotty surf has made it challenging to fish, but it has also helped to concentrate the bait and the bass in certain areas. For those who were willing to brave the elements, the rewards were there.
As we head into the new year, the surf fishing season on Long Island is effectively over. The water is cold, the bait is scarce, and the bass have moved on. It's time to hang up the waders, service the reels, and start dreaming of the spring run. It was a great season, and I want to thank everyone who shared the beach with me. Stay warm, and I'll see you on the sand in 2026.
The key to finding late-season success has been timing. The bite has been sporadic, with short windows of intense action when the bass push the remaining schools of bunker onto the beach. Those who were lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time were rewarded with some nice fish. The western South Shore beaches saw some of the most consistent action, with bass in the teens and twenties being caught during these blitzes.
The weather has been the biggest factor, with the recent cold fronts and strong winds making for some tough conditions. The snotty surf has made it challenging to fish, but it has also helped to concentrate the bait and the bass in certain areas. For those who were willing to brave the elements, the rewards were there.
As we head into the new year, the surf fishing season on Long Island is effectively over. The water is cold, the bait is scarce, and the bass have moved on. It's time to hang up the waders, service the reels, and start dreaming of the spring run. It was a great season, and I want to thank everyone who shared the beach with me. Stay warm, and I'll see you on the sand in 2026.
