The Fishing Line: March 20

It’s striper season! Get up and go catch some. Well, we all know it’s not that easy. And the results are bearing that out as none that I have heard of have been caught. That doesn’t mean they aren’t out there, or are they? Honestly, some have to be around but with the cool weather they just haven’t kicked in yet. And so we wait. And wait. The warmer weather in the forecast may jumpstart things, but that remains to be seen. There still are other things going on so let’s check out what is happening.
Signs that the fishing season is right around the corner started to appear recently. Some local open boats, the Sea Star III, the Miss Chris Fleet, the Porgy IV, the Sailor’s Delight, the Miss Avalon along with the Avalon Lady, the Cape May Lady as well as Fishin’ Fever Sportfishing Charters, Full Ahead Sports Fishing and Stalker Fishing Charters have all announced that they are either completing off-season work and are ready for the fishing to begin, or are taking reservations for charters for the various species that they fish for. Some of the head boats are targeting April 1 to leave the dock, while others are looking at May and the arrival of Drum fish. Another boat, one based out of Port Jefferson, New York but fishing locally, The Osprey, is back at their winter home in Atlantic City. They will fish for blackfish as soon as the season opens. After that, they will return to Long Island for the spring, summer and early fall seasons. Now is the time to make your plans for any chartered trips for you and your group, or to get your gear prepared for a daily trip on a local head boat.          
Here’s a reminder of an upcoming tournament. The summer flounder season won’t start for a couple more months but this may get you thinking about them. The 21st Annual “Brutus” Fluke Tournament will take place on Saturday, June  1 from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. The tournament, which is hosted by the EHT Elks Lodge 2563 and Somers Point AMVETS Post 911, features contestants being allowed to fish from boats, piers and beaches. The deadline to register is Friday, May 31, at the 6 p.m. Captain’s meeting, at approximately 9 p.m. Free snacks will be provided at the meeting/registration time and a free Awards Buffet will occur after the tournament at the Elks Lodge.               
You may request a registration form or more information by sending an email to BrutusBoy6665@aol.com. They can also be picked up in the Ocean City/Somers Point area from Point Tackle Marine, Somers Point Marine, 24/7 Bait and Tackle, Gregory’s Bar, Fin-Atics, the Ocean City Tourist Center, Back bay BBQ, and the EHT Elks Lodge.
Tournament proceeds support both local veterans and handicapped children’s charities.
An individual that I was in correspondence with was at the recent Marine Council meeting in Manahawkin. Unfortunately, due to the government shutdown the ASMFC and the Mid-Atlantic Council have not produced any decisions yet concerning summer flounder.
Concerning sea bass, the regulations will be the same as last year in all states. There is data that needs to be analyzed but that won’t happen till much later this year.
For flounder, the data that was collected is still being reviewed due to the way it was reported. If the finalized data can get to the various states by the first week of April there will be an advisors meeting. The options would be reviewed, and the best options would be given to Council for a meeting in late April with the potential of a slightly earlier season that could include a few extra days. The size and bag limits will be the same as last year.
If the data is not available until later, then the opening of the season may be delayed. This would also make it difficult to add more days to the season.
It was also mentioned that North Jersey would not be against an earlier start to the season which would benefit us here in South Jersey. This is a change to their stance of last season.
It was also recommended that a request be made to move opening day from the Saturday of Memorial day weekend by one day to the previous Friday. This will be considered if the number of days in the season remains the same.
Obviously, a lot of work and meetings remain. As decisions are made and I hear anything, I will let you know.
Boulevard Bait and Tackle announced that they will open full time on April 1. Alright, no fooling, the date is legitimate. They also included word of a new employee, Sophie. Drop in and say hi, but be careful. From the picture she appears to be a vicious attack dog. No, just joking Cameron. She is a Labrador retriever puppy. And you’re probably more likely to be licked to death, so don’t worry as it’s safe to enter.      
The Division of Fish and Wildlife wants to remind everyone that Turkey season opens on April 22. There are events before that date that they want you to be aware of. There are Turkey Hunting/Calling Clinics on March 16 (north) and March 30 (south); you can claim lottery permits by March 25 by going on-line or at an agent; permits are on sale on-line or at an agent on April 1; there is a Women’s Turkey Hunting Basics Workshop on April 6and 7; and a Youth Turkey Hunt on April 20.
The Division of Fish and Wildlife also sent out a reminder that Trout Season will open on April 6at 8 a.m. By going to their website at www.njfishandwildlife.com you can get information on Spring Trout Fishing Information, Bonus Broodstock Lakes, Trout Fishing Regulations, and the Hook-a-Winner Program. Weekly stocking schedules will be posted when finalized.
Don’t forget that’s it’s only a little over two weeks till the Wildwood Fishing and Boating Expo. April 6 and 7 is the day so keep one, or both, of the days open so you can check it out.
Take care, try to get out, and let me know how you did. I’ll see you around.
Submit your fishing news and photos to mrobbins@cmcherald.com.