Fishing Line: February 12

Thankfully, fishing action returned this week, as some nice double-digit blackfish were caught.
Plans for a fishing and crabbing summer camp for kids was announced, and a new pier is moving closer to completion in a local town. Also, a reminder of a local meeting for fishing regulations, and the location, date and time, was sent out. Let’s check them all out.  
Capt. Al and his son, Jimmy, from Bayhound Charters Light Tackle Sportfishing, put together a trip and invited a couple of anglers who are well known in blackfishing circles. They checked out an area that he hadn’t fished in a while and were rewarded nicely. Fortunately, that trip Feb. 1 was the start of a series of trips that allowed for some favorable February fishing.
Leading the way was Teddy Gill, who landed a solid 16.4-pound blackfish. The other nice fish, also topping the double-digit barrier, went to Ken Raines. His fish tipped the scale at 12.5-pounds. Two nice fish, amongst others, really put everyone in good spirits.
Successful fishing continued the following day, as the John Scullin party had their annual Super Tog Sunday outing. The poor conditions, caused by an arriving weather front, led to a late start and an earlier than planned ending to the day. No worries, though, as nice quality fish reached the cooler, while some throwbacks contributed to the active day.
More trips will be available, as long as conditions allow, so give Capt. Al a call, at (609) 602-2662, to grab a trip.
Another trip during the week also experienced success. They had 20 keepers for the happy charter, which included blackfish weighing up to 8 pounds. They also had the bonus of landing some nice ling. Three productive trips for this time of year are always nice to hear about.
Are you planning some summer activities for the kids? The Avalon Lady is now taking reservations for their 2020 Summer Fishing and Crabbing Camps.
Camp consists of four evenings on the water. Young campers will learn basic knot tying and the use of boat and spinning poles. They will then spend two nights fishing the back bays.
The two other evenings are dedicated to crabbing. You will learn how to bait and set up three types of crab traps. Basic navigation and boat safety skills will be covered, too. Also, Capt. Brandon will be teaching how to clean your catch and prepare it for the dinner table.
The camps, designed for children ages 8 and up, run for two separate weeks in July, then for two others in August. It is a great experience for the kids or grandkids.
Call (609) 967-7455, or send an email to avalonladyfishing@gmail.com for more information.
The Miss Avalon Fleet is selling gift certificates for Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion, for the Miss Avalon or the Avalon Lady. Depending on your choice, you can fish in the ocean or the back bays, have an enjoyable day on the water and save money, which sounds like a win-win offer.
If you want a gift certificate for a Valentine’s Day gift, act quickly, as Feb. 14 is in two days. Call the number above to grab yours for any holiday, or special occasion, that’s approaching.
Word reached me about progress being made on the new fishing pier in Avalon Manor. I understand that the bulkhead is now finished, a handicapped-accessible ramp is in place, and lampposts are standing at the ready. Railings are also going up.
A pavilion was mentioned as the next feature that will be added. The neighbors of the pier are also raising funds for the acquisition of a flagpole for the pier complex. When everything is complete, it should be a nice asset to the Avalon Manor community by providing a nice place to fish, crab, see local wildlife or relax and watch the sunrise or sunset.
New Jersey Fish and Wildlife issued a reminder for scoping hearings for summer flounder, scup, black sea bass and bluefish Feb. 25, at the Galloway Township Branch Library, 306 East Jimmie Leeds Rd., from 6-8 p.m. You will have a chance to provide comments on the management of these species in person, or you can submit written comments, using the online comment form, through March 17.
Take care, and I’ll see you around.
Submit your fishing news and photos to mrobbins@cmcherald.com.