Spring is officially here and this weekend’s beautiful weather lit the spark. Some anglers had good fishing across the region. From the early season spots along the rivers and sod banks to stretches of the Barnegat Bay, anglers found hungry striped bass and perch. After the long cold winter, it’s game time!
LBI Fishing Report – First Weekend Of Spring
We’re seeing the first real signs of the season’s progression this weekend. Anglers fishing live bloodworms are finding success with hungry striped bass in the backwaters. Most of the action right now is on bait as the waters are cold and the fish are just warming up from their lethargic state. Once the water temps climb a few more degrees, the artificial action may come alive.
Perch fishing has been solid and while winter flounder is on tap (2 fish at 12″) no reports yet.
Water temps are trending in the right direction and the trend is our friend!
- Ocean: Low 40° range
- Bay: Mid to upper 40° range in some areas
Early Spring Bait & Tactics
Right now, bloodworms are the top bait. Nothing beats large live bloodworms in the early part of the striped bass season They are are expensive so consider using worm balls and or combo some cheaper (and in stock at Fish Heads) green or red worms. A worm ball’s mesh can help protect the pricey and delicate baits from feisty perch.
Store staffer Emmet is into fish the past couple of days. He reported other anglers near by are catching. He also got a couple big perch on his Top Notch Tackle Bass Worming Rig.
- Fish small 2/0-4/0 circle hooks for striped bass baited with worm
- Focus on sod banks, creeks, bridges and mud flats
- For Perch – small hook (a spot / kingfish rig works great) baited with bloodworm or grass shrimp. Check out the jars of preserved grass shrimp we have in stock! Also the larger ones will hit small and light lures and jigs.
Upcoming NJ Fishing Seasons & Regulations
Blackfish (Tog): Opens April 1 4 Fish Bag Limit – 15” Minimum Size Now is the time to gear up with tackle and rigs
Summer Flounder (Fluke): Opens May 4 with 3 Fish at 18” (same as last year)
Winter Flounder: Open Now 2 Fish at 12”
Black Sea Bass: Regulations to be finalized at the March 26 fisheries meeting
Upcoming Event
LBI Surf Fishing Spring Derby kicks off April 4th. Sign ups begin later this week. It’s always a great way to enjoy the LBI beaches in spring with some added friendly fishing competition.
It’s Game Time!
If you’re not ready to go, we have you covered. Stop by the shop here in Ship Bottom or check us out online at www.FishermansHeadquarters.com and we’ll get you geared up and into fish. 🎣
