Welcome to April, and the latest opening of blackfish season. Step outside and the rainy, cool, raw weather feels more reminiscent of late November, or early December, before the deeper cold of winter arrives. But regardless of the conditions, the season is open, and fishing for those good-tasting, hard-fighting fish has begun. Many, like myself, are longing to get out to the reefs and wrecks that dot the area, or to the local bridges and rock piles where these fish live, and soak some crabs. Clams and shrimp pieces are also favored baits.

On April 1, the anglers on the Miss Avalon christened the new blackfish season by braving a rainy Monday. They were rewarded for their diligence with some very nice blackfish. The pool winner was an 8.44-pounder, and others up to 5 pounds were also caught. The pool winner, which was a female fish, was photographed, weighed and then released in a very sportsmanlike gesture. The high-hook caught three keepers and had another nice one on the line when his leader broke. Another nice thing to be noted about the day was that there were some nice Pollock caught.

The Miss Avalon will now be sailing their April schedule which is heavy on an array of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday trips. The only other trip scheduled as of now is a Tuesday, April 30 trip. Unfortunately, that day is the last of the spring blackfish season. Possibly, more days will be offered if the weather allows, but that remains to be seen. I’ll post any changes as necessary, plus you can always give them a call at 609-967-7455.

The Sea Star III has passed their final U.S. Coast Guard inspection. Capt. Chuck will commence the 2024 season, featuring daily trips leaving at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 12. They will be fishing for blackfish for the remainder of April, but will also have an eye to the future. Summer flounder and drumfish will be dead ahead off the bow at that time.

After referencing the approaching drumfish season you should also know that reservations are now being taken for the popular Prime Time Drumfish trips on the Sea Star III. A reservation and deposit are required to reserve a seat on the trip of your choice, so don’t hesitate to reach out and take care of that. Reservations can be made by calling 609-884-3421.

The Starfish, docked in Sea Isle, has set April 13 as their opening day. They will leave the dock at 8 a.m. that morning, and head out to fish for blackfish. They plan on running a Saturday and Sunday schedule for the month of April.

They are also looking ahead to May 17, which is the opening day of sea bass season. They are taking reservations for that trip since the opening of any season is a big deal.

Call 609-263-3800 to make your reservations. You could also take advantage of the “Buy 5, Get 6 Trips” deal.

For those of you who are looking for striped bass, another area that has been producing lately is along the Delaware River. If you know of any areas with public access, or know someone who can let you fish from a private area, then this may be a good place for you to give it a try.

The rivers of Atlantic County are also good areas for striped bass and perch. Our main problem right now is the crazy weather. If we get a break, then just being able to get out will be a benefit.

Grassy Sound Marina will hold an Opening Day Contest for summer flounder on May 4. More details will follow as the date approaches. 

The 26th Annual “Brutus” Fluke Tournament will be held on June 22 from 6 a.m. until 3 p.m. It will be hosted by the EHT Elks Lodge 2563 and the Somers Point AMVETS Post 911. There will be prizes for Fluke, Perch, Striper, and a Junior Division.

To request a registration form, or to get more information, please send an email to BrutusBoy6665@aol.com. Forms can also be picked up at Somers Point Marine, Tight Lines, Gregory’s Bar, Fin-Atics and other local boating shops in the Somers Point and Ocean City area.

The deadline for registration will be at the end of the Captains meeting which is scheduled for Friday, June 21, starting at 6 p.m.

Well, the weather is terrible as I mentioned before, but good luck if you can squeeze in some fishing somewhere between the rainy stretches each day. Hopefully, the weather will be good by the time you read this and anglers will be out enjoying some time on the  water. Take care and I’ll see you around.

Submit fishing news and photos to mrobbins@cmcherald.com.