As with most things in life, there are both good and bad sides. That has been the same with the opening of the spring 2025 blackfish season. A bad weather day, consisting of wind, rain or both, is followed by a decent day, then that is followed by a bad day. And then the cycle repeats.
As a result, the season is off to a slow start. Add that the weather makes it tough for paint to dry and other repairs to be made, and that means some local boats aren’t prepared to hit the water. Some boats are also waiting on their annual Coast Guard inspections before being allowed to start their season. Hopefully, all these components will quickly be remedied, the weather will improve, and we can enjoy the last couple weeks by doing some fishing.
The Atlantic Adventure, with Captain Adam leading the way into his inaugural season, was able to get out on opening day, but only after the main trip was canceled. The conditions improved enough for a quick scouting trip. Some short blackfish were caught, and those involved enjoyed a quick review of what fun this fishery is. After this trip, everything was for real.
The first actual trip was able to leave the dock on Friday of opening week. They had a “decent” trip in spite of the conditions, which weren’t quite up to what anyone would hope for. Some quality keepers were caught, which made the trip well worth it.
A midweek trip saw 12 anglers finish with a nice amount of good-sized keepers. The day fluctuated, as it started good, slowed in the middle, then ended on a good note.
To try out Cape May’s new entry, call or text 609-435-3119 and set up a charter or find out when they have an open boat trip.
Captain Bob from Full Ahead Sport Fishing, Cape May, reported that the action was good on a recent trip. It was one of those outings where you drop your bait and get your hit. Those days help to keep you sharp because you have to be ready. You snooze and you lose. Anyway, the day produced the desired results, as the action was good and keepers were caught.
The Miss Avalon was recently splashed and by now may have started her spring run. If not yet, it won’t be long before it occurs. They should have their schedule posted, so you can pick your dates to go fishing.
The Avalon Lady is preparing to fish on the opening day of the summer flounder season. Two four-hour trips are planned for Sunday, May 4. Trips start at 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. They will sail every day except Tuesdays.
You can check out their schedule online at www.missavalon.com. You can also purchase tickets online. You can message them for a reservation or call 609-967-7455.
The Starfish is preparing for the beginning of sea bass season on May 17. They plan on leaving the dock at 8 a.m. You can book a trip online or call 609-263-3800. Don’t hesitate because you’ll want to have a spot at the rail.
Captain Chuck, from the Sea Star III, has his vessel at the dock, the crew is finishing up the final jobs, and they are waiting on their final approvals, then it will be game on. Meanwhile, Captain Chuck is taking reservations for his Prime Time drum fish trips, which will begin in early May. Check out the website or call 609-884-3421 to reserve a date for a trip that works for you.
The winter work on the Miss Chris is finishing up, and they are looking ahead to the approaching drum fish season. They will be sailing four-hour trips that you can make reservations for by going to CapeMayFisherman.com.
The Cape May Lady was able to get out during the opening week and caught some nice keepers, as well as some short fish. The action was welcome, as it is always good to have them “chewing.”
The Sailor’s Delight is now accepting reservations for both of their boats. Your options for trips are the daily three- and four-hour fishing or crabbing trips. Both open boat and charter trips are available to choose from. Call 609-827-8309 to make your reservation.
Captains Andrew and Stan are set to start the trips on the Sailor’s Delight on May 4, while May 30 will mark the start of the season for the Sailor’s Delight II.
Higbee’s Bait and Tackle reported some good action recently. Catches include large stripers, plus some undersized bass that were all returned to the water. There were also some stripers that fell into the 3-inch slot of 28 to 31 inches.
Some of the bigger fish went to Mike Donato (35 inches), Eli Castro (38) and Doug Miller with 33- and 38-inch fish.
You can almost feel that things are ready to break out in a big way. When the weather allowed anglers to get their bait in the water, fish were caught. Blackfish, striped bass and drum fish were caught, and it won’t be that long till flounder and sea bass are legal. Get out and get fishing if your schedule allows. Good luck, take care, and I’ll see you around.
Submit fishing news and photos to mrobbins@cmcherald.com.
