Fishing Line: December 25

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone.
Hopefully, you weren’t naughty and received all the new fishing gear you wanted. With any cooperation from the weather, you might be able to try it out between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Your best option would be trying for Blackfish, but you can always go for Stripers.
Angling time for this report was short, and while we fought some rough weather, we still have some fishing news to report. Let’s proceed.
The Porgy IV, with Capt. Paul, was able to get a trip in before the wet and windy weekend weather arrived. The bite wasn’t as active, but Mike Youcis, of Bridgeton, didn’t complain. He worked hard and was able to catch his limit.
I’m willing to bet that Skeeter Ridley, of Philadelphia, was also happy with his effort. He only caught two keepers, but one was a 6.5-pound keeper. After that trip, the weather provided Capt. Paul and crew with extra time to go Christmas shopping, as the boat remained at the dock due to the elements.
A fellow blackfish fan, Paul Tomaski, and his friend, Jim Bowen, were able to get a trip in on the Osprey before the weekend storm arrived. For their efforts, Paul came home with two keepers, while Jim was able to obtain his limit. They were shut down by the foul weather on their attempt to get out the following day.
As Paul said, “That is tog fishing.” He concluded his thoughts with words of wisdom for all who chase blackfish by saying, “Get out, when there is a window of decent weather.” That’s a statement that those who fish in the late fall and winter know well.
Sea Isle Bait and Tackle reported that stripers are still out there. They heard that Relentless Fishing NJ had a successful trip, which resulted in three nice keepers. Try to get out while they are still around, and get one, or two, for yourself. If you have your bonus tag, you can get another fish if it falls between 24 and 28 inches. Don’t forget that the order your keepers are caught in doesn’t matter.
The Osprey was able to get out Monday, as the wind lessened. They had a terrific day, as limits were caught and others finished with four fish. Some finished better than others, but all went home with fillets for the table.
The Osprey is fishing out of Gardner’s Basin in Atlantic City. They fish locally in the winter and early spring, then return to their regular home in Port Jefferson, New York. Reservations are needed for their blackfish trips, so call ahead at (516) 449-3255.
Another seasonal shutdown occurred, as Avalon Hodge Podge marked the end of their 2019. Thanks to Tammie, Dave and Brandon for their updates and pictures. They plan on reopening at the end of March, but let’s allow them time to enjoy themselves before we hold them to that. Thank you, take care, and enjoy yourbreak.
Enjoy your holidays and time with your family. Also, if you get out, and get to try out your new gear, or if you just stick with the familiar stuff, good luck, and let me know how you did.
Submit your fishing news and photos to mrobbins@cmcherald.com.