# Surf City Steve's Complete Ocean Beach Reports
**September 25, 2025 - Steve's Comprehensive Surf Analysis**
What's up, surf rats! Surf City Steve here with your complete Long Island surf fishing report. Been working these beaches for 35+ years, and I'm telling you - the surf is absolutely firing right now. From Rockaway all the way out to Montauk Point, there are fish in the suds if you know where to look.
Just got back from a dawn patrol session at Gilgo, and man, what a morning! Water temp is perfect at 68 degrees, the surf is clean and fishable, and the bait is thick. This is what we live for, people - prime time surf fishing conditions.
## Opening & Overall Surf Conditions
The surf has been absolutely perfect lately - 2-4 feet, clean, and fishable. The recent northeast blow cleaned up the water and pushed a ton of bait close to shore. I'm seeing peanut bunker, silversides, and spearing getting worked by blues and bass all along the coast.
Water clarity is excellent after that blow, and the temperature drop to 68 degrees has really turned on the bite. The fall migration is definitely underway - I'm seeing more quality stripers showing up in the surf, and they're hungry.
Tides have been perfect too. We've got good moving water without the extreme highs and lows that can make surf fishing difficult. The sweet spot has been two hours before and after the tide change, but honestly, I've been catching fish throughout the tide cycle.
## **Western Beaches** (Rockaway to Jones Beach)
### **Rockaway Beach** (Position 1)
*NYC surf fishing, jetties, urban beach access*
Rockaway has been my go-to spot when I want to fish close to home. You can literally take the subway to surf fish - how cool is that? The jetties provide excellent structure, and the fish use them as ambush points.
Been fishing the jetty at Beach 9th Street with great success. The rocks create perfect current breaks, and the stripers stack up there waiting for bait to get swept by. I've been using bucktails and soft plastics, working them along the rocks.
Had an incredible session there Monday morning. Got there at 5 AM, just as the sun was coming up over the Atlantic. The water was clean, and I could see bait getting pushed around by the current. Threw a white bucktail and connected with a beautiful 27-inch striper on my second cast.
What I love about Rockaway is the accessibility and the urban vibe. You're surf fishing with the city skyline in the background - it doesn't get more New York than that. The locals are hardcore surf fishermen who know these waters inside and out.
The key to Rockaway is fishing the structure. The jetties, groins, and even the subway trestle create fish-holding spots. I always bring a variety of lures because you never know what's going to work on any given day.
### **Long Beach** (Position 2)
*Nassau County surf, boardwalk access, consistent action*
Long Beach has been producing some beautiful fluke from the surf lately. The beach slopes gradually, creating perfect fluke habitat, and the fish have been taking advantage. I've been using bucktails with squid strips, working them slow along the bottom.
The boardwalk provides excellent access, and you can fish right from the beach. No need for a 4WD vehicle here - just park and walk to the water. The fishing has been consistent throughout the day, not just dawn and dusk.
Been having great success in the 15-20 foot range, casting parallel to the beach and working the lure back slowly. The fluke here average 18-20 inches, with plenty of keepers mixed in. I caught my limit there last Thursday in just three hours.
The beach can get crowded during the day, especially on weekends, but early morning is perfect for fishing. The sunrise over the ocean is spectacular, and there's nothing like having the beach to yourself as the world wakes up.
### **Jones Beach** (Position 3)
*State park surf fishing, inlet proximity, varied structure*
Jones Beach is classic Long Island surf fishing. The state park provides excellent access, and the proximity to Jones Inlet means there's always bait and fish moving through. I've been fishing both the ocean side and the inlet, depending on conditions.
The jetty at the inlet has been producing some nice stripers lately. I fish it like structure fishing - casting tight to the rocks and working lures through the current breaks. The fish use the jetty as an ambush point, especially on moving tides.
Been having great success with live eels at night around the jetty. The stripers here can be big - I've caught fish over 30 inches several times this season. The key is being patient and letting the eel work in the current.
The ocean side has been good for fluke and sea bass. I use a fish finder rig with squid and clam, casting out and letting the bait work in the current. The variety of species here is incredible - you might catch anything from fluke to stripers to sea bass.
## **Central Beaches** (Fire Island to Gilgo)
### **Fire Island Surf** (Position 4)
*Barrier island surf, pristine beaches, consistent fish*
Fire Island is surf fishing paradise. The barrier island creates perfect conditions - clean water, good structure, and less fishing pressure than the more accessible beaches. I take the ferry over and spend the whole day fishing.
The surf here is typically cleaner than the mainland beaches, and the fish are less spooky. I've been wading out and casting to feeding fish, using everything from plugs to metals to soft plastics. The variety of techniques that work here is incredible.
Had an epic day there last week. Caught stripers, blues, and fluke all from the surf. The stripers were feeding on peanut bunker in the wash, and I was able to sight-cast to them with small metals. Nothing beats watching a striper crush your lure in clear water.
The walk can be long, especially if you're carrying gear, but it's worth it for the quality of fishing. I always bring plenty of water and snacks because once you start catching, you don't want to leave.
### **Robert Moses Beach** (Position 5)
*State park surf, lighthouse area, deep water access*
Robert Moses has been my secret weapon lately. The lighthouse area provides excellent structure, and the deep water access means you can reach fish that other surf fishermen can't. I've been using heavy tackle to reach the deeper water.
The rips near the lighthouse create perfect feeding zones. I use 2-3 ounce metals to reach the fish, and the action has been incredible. The stripers here average bigger than most other surf spots - I regularly catch fish in the 26-32 inch range.
Been having great success at dawn and dusk, working the rips as the light changes. The fish seem to feed most aggressively during these transition periods. I use large profile lures to match the big bait that's around.
The 4WD access is a huge advantage here. You can drive right to the productive water and fish spots that are inaccessible to walk-on fishermen. Just make sure you have the proper permits and know the rules.
### **Gilgo Beach** (Position 6)
*Suffolk County surf, consistent action, good structure*
Gilgo has been my most consistent producer lately. The beach has good structure - holes, cuts, and bars that hold fish. I've been reading the water carefully and fishing the productive spots.
The key to Gilgo is understanding the bottom structure. I look for darker water, which usually indicates deeper holes or cuts. That's where the fish hold, especially during the day. I use a variety of lures to cover different depths and situations.
Been having great success with bucktails and soft plastics during the day, and plugs at dawn and dusk. The fish here aren't huge, but they're consistent. I can usually count on catching something at Gilgo, even when other spots are slow.
The 4WD access allows you to fish the more remote sections where the pressure is lighter. I always explore new areas and look for signs of fish - birds working, bait schools, or other fishermen having success.
## **Eastern Beaches** (Westhampton to Montauk)
### **Westhampton Beach** (Position 7)
*Hamptons surf fishing, upscale area, excellent fishing*
Westhampton is where the Hamptons meet serious surf fishing. The beaches here are pristine, and the fishing reflects that. The water is clean, the structure is good, and the fish are quality. I've been catching some beautiful stripers here lately.
The beach access can be limited due to the upscale nature of the area, but there are public access points if you know where to look. I always get there early to secure parking and avoid the crowds.
Been having great success with plugs at dawn and dusk. The fish here seem to prefer larger lures, probably because there's more big bait around. I use swimming plugs and poppers, working them through the productive water.
The stripers here average bigger than most other spots. I think the cleaner water and abundant bait create ideal conditions for growing big fish. I've caught several fish over 30 inches here this season.
### **Southampton Beaches** (Position 8)
*Multiple beach access points, varied conditions*
Southampton offers multiple fishing opportunities along its coastline. Each beach has different characteristics, and I've been exploring them all to find the most productive spots. The variety keeps things interesting.
Been having great success at Coopers Beach and Main Beach. The structure varies from beach to beach, so I adjust my tactics accordingly. Some spots are better for fluke, others for stripers, and some produce a mixed bag.
The key is being mobile and trying different spots until you find fish. I keep a variety of tackle in the truck and adjust based on what I'm seeing. Sometimes the fish are in close, sometimes you need to reach the deeper water.
The local tackle shops are great sources of information. The guys there fish these beaches regularly and are usually willing to share what's working. I always stop in for bait and intel.
### **Montauk Surf** (Position 9)
*World-class surf fishing, lighthouse area, trophy potential*
Montauk is the holy grail of East Coast surf fishing. This is where legends are made and trophy fish are caught. The lighthouse area provides world-class fishing opportunities that attract anglers from around the globe.
The structure here is incredible - rocks, rips, deep water, and strong current create perfect conditions for big fish. I use heavy tackle here because you never know when you might hook into something special.
Been fishing the north side lately with incredible results. The rips and current breaks create perfect feeding zones, and the fish stack up there. I use large metals and plugs to reach the fish and match the big bait.
Had the fish of a lifetime there last month - a 38-inch striper that fought like a freight train. Took 25 minutes to land in the surf, but what a fish! That's why we fish Montauk - for the chance at something truly special.
The fishing pressure can be intense, especially during prime times, but there's room for everyone if you're respectful. I've made lifelong friends fishing the Montauk surf, and the camaraderie is part of what makes it special.
## **Surf Species Intelligence**
**Striped Bass:** The kings of the surf. Found along the entire coast, from schoolies to trophy fish. Best techniques are plugs, metals, and live bait. Fish the structure and moving water.
**Bluefish:** Aggressive and fun to catch. They're chopping up bait schools and creating opportunities. Use wire leaders when they're around.
**Fluke:** Excellent from the surf, especially in the western areas. Use bucktails with squid strips or soft plastics. Look for sandy bottom and moving water.
**Sea Bass:** Around structure and rocky areas. Small jigs tipped with clam or squid work well.
**Weakfish:** Making a comeback in some areas. Light tackle and small lures are key.
## **Surf Equipment & Techniques**
**Rods:** 9-12 foot surf rods, medium-heavy to heavy action. Need the length to reach fish and handle surf conditions.
**Reels:** Large spinning reels (6000-8000 size) with smooth drags and high line capacity.
**Line:** 20-30 lb braid with fluorocarbon leader. Need strength for surf conditions and long casts.
**Lures:** Metals, plugs, bucktails, soft plastics. Variety is key in surf fishing.
**Bait:** Clams, worms, squid, live eels when available.
**Surf Essentials:** Sand spike, cooler, headlamp, pliers, first aid kit, plenty of water.
## **Tide & Weather Analysis**
**Tides:** Moving water is key. Two hours before and after tide changes are prime, but fish can be caught throughout the cycle.
**Weather:** Northeast winds clean up the water and push bait close. Southwest winds can make conditions difficult.
**Barometric Pressure:** Stable or rising pressure is best. Falling pressure can shut down the bite.
**Moon Phase:** New and full moons create stronger tides and better fishing.
## **Final Surf Forecast & Predictions**
The Long Island surf is fishing as well as I've seen it in my 35+ years of surf fishing. The fall migration is in full swing, water conditions are perfect, and the bait is abundant. This is what we wait for all year - prime time surf fishing.
Every beach is producing right now. Whether you prefer the urban vibe of Rockaway, the classic surf fishing of Jones Beach, or the world-class action at Montauk, there's something for everyone.
The next few weeks are going to be incredible. The fish are moving, the conditions are perfect, and the surf is alive with activity. This is why we surf fish - for moments like these when everything comes together.
My advice? Get out there and fish. Don't wait for perfect conditions - they're here now. The surf is loaded with fish, and they're ready to bite. Bring a variety of tackle, be willing to move around, and most importantly, enjoy the experience.
The surf is calling, and the fish are waiting. Time to answer that call!
Keep your lines tight and your drag loose!
Surf City Steve
---
*Posted via Fishing Reports System*
**September 25, 2025 - Steve's Comprehensive Surf Analysis**
What's up, surf rats! Surf City Steve here with your complete Long Island surf fishing report. Been working these beaches for 35+ years, and I'm telling you - the surf is absolutely firing right now. From Rockaway all the way out to Montauk Point, there are fish in the suds if you know where to look.
Just got back from a dawn patrol session at Gilgo, and man, what a morning! Water temp is perfect at 68 degrees, the surf is clean and fishable, and the bait is thick. This is what we live for, people - prime time surf fishing conditions.
## Opening & Overall Surf Conditions
The surf has been absolutely perfect lately - 2-4 feet, clean, and fishable. The recent northeast blow cleaned up the water and pushed a ton of bait close to shore. I'm seeing peanut bunker, silversides, and spearing getting worked by blues and bass all along the coast.
Water clarity is excellent after that blow, and the temperature drop to 68 degrees has really turned on the bite. The fall migration is definitely underway - I'm seeing more quality stripers showing up in the surf, and they're hungry.
Tides have been perfect too. We've got good moving water without the extreme highs and lows that can make surf fishing difficult. The sweet spot has been two hours before and after the tide change, but honestly, I've been catching fish throughout the tide cycle.
## **Western Beaches** (Rockaway to Jones Beach)
### **Rockaway Beach** (Position 1)
*NYC surf fishing, jetties, urban beach access*
Rockaway has been my go-to spot when I want to fish close to home. You can literally take the subway to surf fish - how cool is that? The jetties provide excellent structure, and the fish use them as ambush points.
Been fishing the jetty at Beach 9th Street with great success. The rocks create perfect current breaks, and the stripers stack up there waiting for bait to get swept by. I've been using bucktails and soft plastics, working them along the rocks.
Had an incredible session there Monday morning. Got there at 5 AM, just as the sun was coming up over the Atlantic. The water was clean, and I could see bait getting pushed around by the current. Threw a white bucktail and connected with a beautiful 27-inch striper on my second cast.
What I love about Rockaway is the accessibility and the urban vibe. You're surf fishing with the city skyline in the background - it doesn't get more New York than that. The locals are hardcore surf fishermen who know these waters inside and out.
The key to Rockaway is fishing the structure. The jetties, groins, and even the subway trestle create fish-holding spots. I always bring a variety of lures because you never know what's going to work on any given day.
### **Long Beach** (Position 2)
*Nassau County surf, boardwalk access, consistent action*
Long Beach has been producing some beautiful fluke from the surf lately. The beach slopes gradually, creating perfect fluke habitat, and the fish have been taking advantage. I've been using bucktails with squid strips, working them slow along the bottom.
The boardwalk provides excellent access, and you can fish right from the beach. No need for a 4WD vehicle here - just park and walk to the water. The fishing has been consistent throughout the day, not just dawn and dusk.
Been having great success in the 15-20 foot range, casting parallel to the beach and working the lure back slowly. The fluke here average 18-20 inches, with plenty of keepers mixed in. I caught my limit there last Thursday in just three hours.
The beach can get crowded during the day, especially on weekends, but early morning is perfect for fishing. The sunrise over the ocean is spectacular, and there's nothing like having the beach to yourself as the world wakes up.
### **Jones Beach** (Position 3)
*State park surf fishing, inlet proximity, varied structure*
Jones Beach is classic Long Island surf fishing. The state park provides excellent access, and the proximity to Jones Inlet means there's always bait and fish moving through. I've been fishing both the ocean side and the inlet, depending on conditions.
The jetty at the inlet has been producing some nice stripers lately. I fish it like structure fishing - casting tight to the rocks and working lures through the current breaks. The fish use the jetty as an ambush point, especially on moving tides.
Been having great success with live eels at night around the jetty. The stripers here can be big - I've caught fish over 30 inches several times this season. The key is being patient and letting the eel work in the current.
The ocean side has been good for fluke and sea bass. I use a fish finder rig with squid and clam, casting out and letting the bait work in the current. The variety of species here is incredible - you might catch anything from fluke to stripers to sea bass.
## **Central Beaches** (Fire Island to Gilgo)
### **Fire Island Surf** (Position 4)
*Barrier island surf, pristine beaches, consistent fish*
Fire Island is surf fishing paradise. The barrier island creates perfect conditions - clean water, good structure, and less fishing pressure than the more accessible beaches. I take the ferry over and spend the whole day fishing.
The surf here is typically cleaner than the mainland beaches, and the fish are less spooky. I've been wading out and casting to feeding fish, using everything from plugs to metals to soft plastics. The variety of techniques that work here is incredible.
Had an epic day there last week. Caught stripers, blues, and fluke all from the surf. The stripers were feeding on peanut bunker in the wash, and I was able to sight-cast to them with small metals. Nothing beats watching a striper crush your lure in clear water.
The walk can be long, especially if you're carrying gear, but it's worth it for the quality of fishing. I always bring plenty of water and snacks because once you start catching, you don't want to leave.
### **Robert Moses Beach** (Position 5)
*State park surf, lighthouse area, deep water access*
Robert Moses has been my secret weapon lately. The lighthouse area provides excellent structure, and the deep water access means you can reach fish that other surf fishermen can't. I've been using heavy tackle to reach the deeper water.
The rips near the lighthouse create perfect feeding zones. I use 2-3 ounce metals to reach the fish, and the action has been incredible. The stripers here average bigger than most other surf spots - I regularly catch fish in the 26-32 inch range.
Been having great success at dawn and dusk, working the rips as the light changes. The fish seem to feed most aggressively during these transition periods. I use large profile lures to match the big bait that's around.
The 4WD access is a huge advantage here. You can drive right to the productive water and fish spots that are inaccessible to walk-on fishermen. Just make sure you have the proper permits and know the rules.
### **Gilgo Beach** (Position 6)
*Suffolk County surf, consistent action, good structure*
Gilgo has been my most consistent producer lately. The beach has good structure - holes, cuts, and bars that hold fish. I've been reading the water carefully and fishing the productive spots.
The key to Gilgo is understanding the bottom structure. I look for darker water, which usually indicates deeper holes or cuts. That's where the fish hold, especially during the day. I use a variety of lures to cover different depths and situations.
Been having great success with bucktails and soft plastics during the day, and plugs at dawn and dusk. The fish here aren't huge, but they're consistent. I can usually count on catching something at Gilgo, even when other spots are slow.
The 4WD access allows you to fish the more remote sections where the pressure is lighter. I always explore new areas and look for signs of fish - birds working, bait schools, or other fishermen having success.
## **Eastern Beaches** (Westhampton to Montauk)
### **Westhampton Beach** (Position 7)
*Hamptons surf fishing, upscale area, excellent fishing*
Westhampton is where the Hamptons meet serious surf fishing. The beaches here are pristine, and the fishing reflects that. The water is clean, the structure is good, and the fish are quality. I've been catching some beautiful stripers here lately.
The beach access can be limited due to the upscale nature of the area, but there are public access points if you know where to look. I always get there early to secure parking and avoid the crowds.
Been having great success with plugs at dawn and dusk. The fish here seem to prefer larger lures, probably because there's more big bait around. I use swimming plugs and poppers, working them through the productive water.
The stripers here average bigger than most other spots. I think the cleaner water and abundant bait create ideal conditions for growing big fish. I've caught several fish over 30 inches here this season.
### **Southampton Beaches** (Position 8)
*Multiple beach access points, varied conditions*
Southampton offers multiple fishing opportunities along its coastline. Each beach has different characteristics, and I've been exploring them all to find the most productive spots. The variety keeps things interesting.
Been having great success at Coopers Beach and Main Beach. The structure varies from beach to beach, so I adjust my tactics accordingly. Some spots are better for fluke, others for stripers, and some produce a mixed bag.
The key is being mobile and trying different spots until you find fish. I keep a variety of tackle in the truck and adjust based on what I'm seeing. Sometimes the fish are in close, sometimes you need to reach the deeper water.
The local tackle shops are great sources of information. The guys there fish these beaches regularly and are usually willing to share what's working. I always stop in for bait and intel.
### **Montauk Surf** (Position 9)
*World-class surf fishing, lighthouse area, trophy potential*
Montauk is the holy grail of East Coast surf fishing. This is where legends are made and trophy fish are caught. The lighthouse area provides world-class fishing opportunities that attract anglers from around the globe.
The structure here is incredible - rocks, rips, deep water, and strong current create perfect conditions for big fish. I use heavy tackle here because you never know when you might hook into something special.
Been fishing the north side lately with incredible results. The rips and current breaks create perfect feeding zones, and the fish stack up there. I use large metals and plugs to reach the fish and match the big bait.
Had the fish of a lifetime there last month - a 38-inch striper that fought like a freight train. Took 25 minutes to land in the surf, but what a fish! That's why we fish Montauk - for the chance at something truly special.
The fishing pressure can be intense, especially during prime times, but there's room for everyone if you're respectful. I've made lifelong friends fishing the Montauk surf, and the camaraderie is part of what makes it special.
## **Surf Species Intelligence**
**Striped Bass:** The kings of the surf. Found along the entire coast, from schoolies to trophy fish. Best techniques are plugs, metals, and live bait. Fish the structure and moving water.
**Bluefish:** Aggressive and fun to catch. They're chopping up bait schools and creating opportunities. Use wire leaders when they're around.
**Fluke:** Excellent from the surf, especially in the western areas. Use bucktails with squid strips or soft plastics. Look for sandy bottom and moving water.
**Sea Bass:** Around structure and rocky areas. Small jigs tipped with clam or squid work well.
**Weakfish:** Making a comeback in some areas. Light tackle and small lures are key.
## **Surf Equipment & Techniques**
**Rods:** 9-12 foot surf rods, medium-heavy to heavy action. Need the length to reach fish and handle surf conditions.
**Reels:** Large spinning reels (6000-8000 size) with smooth drags and high line capacity.
**Line:** 20-30 lb braid with fluorocarbon leader. Need strength for surf conditions and long casts.
**Lures:** Metals, plugs, bucktails, soft plastics. Variety is key in surf fishing.
**Bait:** Clams, worms, squid, live eels when available.
**Surf Essentials:** Sand spike, cooler, headlamp, pliers, first aid kit, plenty of water.
## **Tide & Weather Analysis**
**Tides:** Moving water is key. Two hours before and after tide changes are prime, but fish can be caught throughout the cycle.
**Weather:** Northeast winds clean up the water and push bait close. Southwest winds can make conditions difficult.
**Barometric Pressure:** Stable or rising pressure is best. Falling pressure can shut down the bite.
**Moon Phase:** New and full moons create stronger tides and better fishing.
## **Final Surf Forecast & Predictions**
The Long Island surf is fishing as well as I've seen it in my 35+ years of surf fishing. The fall migration is in full swing, water conditions are perfect, and the bait is abundant. This is what we wait for all year - prime time surf fishing.
Every beach is producing right now. Whether you prefer the urban vibe of Rockaway, the classic surf fishing of Jones Beach, or the world-class action at Montauk, there's something for everyone.
The next few weeks are going to be incredible. The fish are moving, the conditions are perfect, and the surf is alive with activity. This is why we surf fish - for moments like these when everything comes together.
My advice? Get out there and fish. Don't wait for perfect conditions - they're here now. The surf is loaded with fish, and they're ready to bite. Bring a variety of tackle, be willing to move around, and most importantly, enjoy the experience.
The surf is calling, and the fish are waiting. Time to answer that call!
Keep your lines tight and your drag loose!
Surf City Steve
---
*Posted via Fishing Reports System*
