**Bottom Line Up Front:** The surf has gone quiet as the last of the migratory striped bass have moved south. The beaches are now the domain of the die-hard angler, but for those willing to make the trip, the offshore party boats are still finding plenty of action. It's a different scene on the beach in December, but the ocean is still full of life.
**Offshore Wreck Fishing:** The party boats out of Montauk and the South Shore ports are still sailing and finding excellent fishing on the offshore wrecks. The sea bass fishing has been the main event, with big fish and full coolers being the norm. There have also been some cod, pollock, and porgies in the mix, which is a great bonus for those making the trip. These boats will be sailing right up until the New Year, so there's still time to get in on the action.
**The End of an Era:** The 2024 striped bass season has come to a close, and with it, the end of the fall run. It was a great season, with plenty of fish and some memorable blitzes. Now is the time to clean and store your gear, and to start dreaming of the spring run. It won't be long before the first signs of life return to the surf.
**Freshwater Fun:** For those who can't stand the thought of a winter without fishing, the freshwater scene is a great alternative. The local ponds and lakes have been stocked with trout, and they are providing good action for those using small spinners and spoons. The walleye fishing has also been good, with fish being caught on jerkbaits and paddletails at night.
**Looking Ahead:** The weather is going to be a major factor over the next few days, with a strong cold front and gale-force winds expected on Wednesday. This will likely shut down the fishing for a few days, so be sure to get out there while you can. The good news is that the offshore party boats are still sailing, and the freshwater fishing is a great alternative, so there are still plenty of opportunities to get out on the water.
**Offshore Wreck Fishing:** The party boats out of Montauk and the South Shore ports are still sailing and finding excellent fishing on the offshore wrecks. The sea bass fishing has been the main event, with big fish and full coolers being the norm. There have also been some cod, pollock, and porgies in the mix, which is a great bonus for those making the trip. These boats will be sailing right up until the New Year, so there's still time to get in on the action.
**The End of an Era:** The 2024 striped bass season has come to a close, and with it, the end of the fall run. It was a great season, with plenty of fish and some memorable blitzes. Now is the time to clean and store your gear, and to start dreaming of the spring run. It won't be long before the first signs of life return to the surf.
**Freshwater Fun:** For those who can't stand the thought of a winter without fishing, the freshwater scene is a great alternative. The local ponds and lakes have been stocked with trout, and they are providing good action for those using small spinners and spoons. The walleye fishing has also been good, with fish being caught on jerkbaits and paddletails at night.
**Looking Ahead:** The weather is going to be a major factor over the next few days, with a strong cold front and gale-force winds expected on Wednesday. This will likely shut down the fishing for a few days, so be sure to get out there while you can. The good news is that the offshore party boats are still sailing, and the freshwater fishing is a great alternative, so there are still plenty of opportunities to get out on the water.
