Well, unfortunately we can’t control the weather and because of that, not much fishing occurred during the last week. During the week, the 2023 summer flounder season ended with a whimper instead of a bang. But, as the saying goes, with one door closing, another opens. The third portion of sea bass fishing opened Oct. 1. This portion has a bag limit of 10 fish per person. Hopefully, the conditions improve and we can get out and enjoy some fishing. Let’s get started.
Capt. Chuck from the Sea Star III mentioned that he was able to get out only once during the past week. That day was the opening day of the current segment of sea bass season. Sadly, that also means that as the summer flounder season ended, he and the other captains in the area sat at the dock as conditions didn’t allow for one final trip to the wrecks and reefs where the flounder had migrated to.
Sunday’s conditions weren’t ideal, but those who were able to leave the dock behind weren’t complaining. Capt. Chuck reported that the anglers “managed a fair catch,” which probably felt pretty good to those aboard. Sea bass and triggerfish provided the action.
For the record, Vicki Watson won the first pool of the current sea bass season with a nice 2.7-pound triggerfish. Both the sea bass and triggerfish were welcomed by those who enjoyed the day on the water.
Capt. Mike, from the Miss Chris, also had to deal with the wind. They did get out one day but the wind was “blowing really hard.” Capt. Mike did get out on opening day for sea bass and he reported “pretty good” fishing. The ocean was rough for a good part of the day but sea bass were caught. One angler was close to a limit, but ultimately was short on the final count.
Cape May Bait and Tackle reported that the surf has shown some signs of life, but has been quieter than desired. Still, kingfish, croakers and small bluefish are around and hungry. Bloodworms and Fish Bites are good things to feed them. Metals, or pieces of mullet, bunker or mackerel work on the blues. Schoolie stripers showed up over the weekend and were chasing bucktails.
If you leave the beach and jump on the rock piles then you may be able to catch some Tog. Sand fleas and green crabs were the best options to use.
The reefs are holding sea bass and triggerfish that are hitting offerings of clams or squid.
The Miss Avalon released their October schedule. In addition to their six and eight-hour trips, they will be sailing deep-water reef trips that will be targeting sea bass, porgies and bluefish. Prior to this column, one of these trips has already occurred. Other deep-water trips are planned for Oct. 14, 21 and 28, which are all Saturdays. The six and eight-hour trips are scattered throughout the month. Make sure you check out their Facebook page to see the schedule.
A mid-week trip resulted in some nice sea bass, bluefish and triggerfish. Picking through some small fish was required, but the bigger ones were mixed in so no one seemed to mind as nice fish were scattered throughout the boat.
Reservations, taken only for the deep-water outings, are strongly suggested and can be made by calling 609-967-7455.
The Starfish had a good opening day for sea bass. There were limits scattered around the boat with some nice fish being caught. As the day progressed so did the weather, which made those aboard very happy.
The Tuesday trip produced sea bass limits that were scattered around the boat. They also caught triggerfish and bluefish, which helped to make up a nice mixed bag.
You can call John at the Starfish at 609-263-3800 or book a trip online if you want to get out and catch some sea bass.
Boulevard Bait and Tackle reported that Gil checked in to report that he was catching kingfish from the beach. Also, Sheepshead and Tog are being caught around the bridges, docks, pilings and jetties and as proof, pictures of Sheepshead and a Tog that Wes caught while fishing from his kayak were offered up.
Capt. Andrew, from the Sailor’s Delight (10 passengers) and Sailor’s Delight II (12 passengers), is now taking reservations for the 2024 fishing, crabbing and eco/historical trips. These are for either open boat or charter trips. Early reservations are the only way for you to lock in 2023 prices.
You can reach Capt. Andrew directly at 215-582-6539 or email sailor08251@gmail to make your reservation.
After the stormy weather cleared, Capt. Andrew took an “exploratory trip” to see how the back waters were doing. The trip yielded some sharks, big sea robins and one sea bass. The main catch of note during this trip was the nice big weakfish that was caught by Offshore Eddy.
Well, it wasn’t the busiest of weeks, but it was still good as the local fishing community bounced back. With some cooperation from the weather, the early fall fishery should start to develop nicely. Good luck if you get out, take care and I’ll see you around.
Submit fishing news and photos to mrobbins@cmcherald.com.
