It was a slow period, as the wind kept the boats at their docks and made for fewer trips. When they could get out, the fishing was still pretty good. Sea bass, porgies and blackfish were caught by those hitting the reefs and wrecks, while those who found opportunities to go offshore were able to catch some tuna. With the recent opening of the blackfish season and the increase in the bag limit, another fishery has opened as we race toward December. Let’s see what went on.
The Miss Avalon had a nice weekend, with their patrons catching sea bass. As a bonus, some nice blackfish were caught, with some anglers getting large enough fish to go home with their one keeper. One final treat was that they were able to see a whale on their way back. No matter how many you may have seen during your time on the water, there still remains something exciting when you see one. Hopefully, there will be more to see this fall.
The anglers on the Starfish are having a good time catching sea bass and enjoying the extra action that is being provided by some nice porgies. Now, though, they have added another species to add to their wanted list, and trips are being offered for them. Blackfish trips are being run daily at 8 a.m. You can book online or call 609-263-3800 to reserve a seat. Also, walk-ups and groups are welcome.
Sea Isle Bait and Tackle continues to get reports and pictures of some nice bluefin tuna catches. Most have been caught about 15 miles out. This has allowed many anglers to take a shot at catching them, and some have succeeded.
An angler named Tim landed a 176.8-pound bluefin with assistance from mate Kristen and Captain Steve and Captain Zig (mentioned here often from First Fish Adventures). The crew of the Philly Hooker checked in with a 175.7-pound bluefin, then Addison F. and Buzz K. brought their bluefin in. After hitting the scale it was determined to be a 186.4-pound fish.
Striped bass action was also reported by Chuck, who caught and released a 34-inch fish. This fish, like many recently, fell for a live spot. A young angler, Reed, caught his first striper, which was also his first keeper, during a recent trip over the weekend. Congratulations, Reed, on your nice catch.
A 6-pound, 20.5-inch tog was caught, and weighed in, by Vince. This fish was a land-based catch and showed that the local catches are getting bigger.
The Sea Star III is still chasing sea bass while preparing for the approaching blackfish season. Captain Chuck planned to switch to blackfish when the season opened on Nov. 16.
Captain Chuck reported that the sea bass fishing was still good and that a “decent number of keepers” were still being caught.
Pool winners this week, both with sea bass, were Gary Sloan with a 3-pound fish and Frank Servocky, who claimed his pool with a 2-pounder.
The Sea Star III sails daily at 9 a.m., then returns to the dock at 3 p.m.
The Sailor’s Delight is having success with its trips to the local rock piles. They have been pulling in plenty of keeper blackfish, and those numbers should only go up, as the bag limit increased recently. Call Captain Stan at 609-827-8309 to secure a spot at the rail. There aren’t many trips left on the 2024 calendar, so don’t delay.
The Starlight Fleet had some nice trips recently as they took advantage of the good weather. Plenty of nice sea bass were caught throughout the weekend, with a highlight going to Lisa Russo, who finished her trip with a bucket full of sea bass.
American Legion Post 184, Wildwood, is teaming with the Wildwood Fishing and Boating Expo to bring anglers the American Legion Post 184 Wildwood Striper Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 14. One-Hundred percent of the proceeds will go to the post. Sponsors are being sought.
Registration is now open at American Legion Post 184 Wildwood, located at 4200 Atlantic Ave.
Fishing starts at 7:30, then a weigh-in will be held at the post from 3 to 5 p.m. You must be on post property by 5 p.m. There will be guaranteed cash prizes for the heaviest striper, and an after-party with door prizes, a hot buffet and draft beer. The fee is $75 per person and $100 per boat calcutta.
The Wildwood Fishing and Boating Expo is now a three-day event scheduled for Jan. 10 through 12. It will again be held at the Wildwood Convention Center.
The week was good, but slower than hoped for as the wind, and fewer anglers than hoped for, is proving what the calendar has already shown us. As the year rolls on, with us now in mid-November, the possibilities of fishing are affected by various elements. Weather, and fewer anglers during the week, result in fewer trips being made. Weekends, though, still attract customers, so that is good. Well, take care, good luck if you get out, and I’ll see you around.
Submit fishing news and photos to mrobbins@cmcherald.com.
