Although there are still a few weeks before spring arrives at the New Jersey shore, the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association have been busy readying their boats and gear while also re-charging their own batteries.

Captain Raymond Lopez of “Miss Liane Sportfishing Charters” has been busy refurbishing the props, preforming routine engine maintenance, and upgrading the audio system on his boat. In addition, the vessel also passed the voluntary UPV inspection through the USCG. Any rods and reels in need of refurbishing have been taken care of by professionals.

Captain Pete Doran of “Mud Duck Sportfishing” is a new member of the BHCFA. The “Mud Duck” is a 48′ Garlington docked in Morrison’s Marina and will be running mostly offshore trips. Besides sandblasting the bottom, Captain Peter outfitted the boat with new outriggers and refrigeration.

Captain Lindsay Fuller had his usual maintenance work done on the “June Bug” at her winter home in Manteo, NC. He plans to do some fishing there before bringing the boat north. Captain Lindsay has had his rods and reels professionally serviced along with making some improvements on the reel seats.

Captain Carl Sheppard reports the “Star Fish” is getting its “usual spring TLC.” He is planning on splashing the boat in early April with Coast Guard inspections coming shortly after. By the middle of April he expects to be fishing. The inspections include engines, lights, steering, navigation, lifesaving, medical supplies, and much more including a “man overboard” drill.

Captain John Lewis of the “Insatiable” and his wife spent a month in Islamorada in the Florida Keys. Captain John says he did quite a bit of fishing including landing his first ever sailfish. He also had several good days of yellowtail fishing. He has several boat deliveries lined up and is looking forward to a successful fishing season in Beach Haven.

Captains from the association have been joined at several fishing flea markets and shows by members of their Junior Mates program spreading news of the BHCFA. The junior mates will be at Booth 726 this weekend at the Atlantic City Boat Show. The teens invite all to stop by and say hello.

Information on the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.BHCFA.net.

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

Author: FishHead.Greg

Born, raised and living in Ship Bottom at the heart of Long Beach Island, Greg's surrounded by the Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Greg is an accomplished angler with great knowledge of saltwater fishing from the light tackle back waters to the surf and jetty as well as inshore and offshore big game fishing. Whether you are new to fishing or new to Long Beach Island, Greg wants to help. Questions about knot tying, fishing rods and reels, problems, techniques, locations? Just ask. Stop by Fisherman's Headquarters and say hello. View all posts by FishHead.Greg