A Long Beach Island native with life long experience fishing and navigating the local waters, Greg is a distinguished Master Captain (the highest qualified operator license), holding a US Coast Guard Masters 50T Near Coastal License with Towing Endorsement. Raised in and now managing his family's bait and tackle business, Fishermans Headquarters (Since 1962, The Saltwater Fishing Bait & Tackle Experts) Greg is daily immersed in fishing. He is the Chief Contributor of FishingLBI.com (Long Beach Island's best fishing report blog) as well as the Admin for the shop's social media pages (on Instagram and Facebook). Be sure to follow!
Here’s the LBI Fishing Report for the week ending Sunday March 8, 2020.
A good presence of striped bass showed this week. The abundance at night was impressive and some quality ones hinted at good fishing ahead. Now with daylight saving we are on the fast track to spring fishing!
The night shift is the best times to work the shadow lines with small jigs and plastics. The Kettle Creek Paddle Tails are a standout choice! A few days back store staffers Jordan and Dan both had productive outings. They fished separate areas at different times and both has a blast reporting numerous striped bass.
Here’s one Barnegat Bay mutant striped bass Dan caught on a pink Kettle Creek. What do you think attacked it… maybe a bluefish or a shark? Seems like it has healed and is growing up just fine. Dan released the mutant to swim another day and grow up. Here’s one of many night time linesiders Jordan caught on jigs this past week. No hungry bass will turn down a properly presented bucktail!
A shop regular stop in Wednesday purchasing a new pair of waders for spring fishing. While in he show a photo but wouldn’t allow us to share. It was a picture from a recent fishing trip and the biggest bass we saw to date this year… A nice high teen, possibly hitting the 20 pound mark bass.
Saturday midday Hunter Dargay stopped in and got some live bloodworms. Within minutes he tagged us in this photo… They are chewing!
NJ Saltwater Expo
The NJ Saltwater Expo is almost here! There’s a terrific line-up of seminars presented by top-names in the areas fishing front. Also take advantage of special offers and promotions the crew at Fish Heads will have on display. Stop by Booth 445 and say hi!
Save The Dates: March 13, 14, 15 at the NJ Convention & Expo Center in (97 Sunfield Ave, Edison, NJ 08837) the https://saltwater.sportshows.com/
Long Beach Island Party Boat Fishing News
Fishing The Miss Barnegat Light
The Miss Barnegat Light posted an update… Here’s our 2020 schedule!
We start Memorial Day weekend with fluke and sea bass, sailing Friday, Saturday and Sunday. June 19th we’ll start sailing daily. Canyon overnight trips start September 19th fishing every weekend through October. Starting November 6th we’ll be fishing every Friday, Saturday and Sunday for striped bass.
Fishing The Carolyn Ann III
The Carolyn Ann III posted an update. They are preparing for the season and will start fishing mid-May for sea bass. “We’ll be sailing everyday; however, no blackfish this spring.” Stay tuned for a new schedule set for the upcoming summer. The boat will be sailing one five hour trip (8am to 1pm) daily.
2020 NJ Striped Bass & Bluefish Regulations for recreational anglers has changed from past years. Here’s what you need to know!
The 2020 Striped Bass & Bluefish regulations for recreational anglers fishing New Jersey take effect on April 1, 2020.
NJ Striped Bass Fishing Regs
1 Fish 28″ to less than 38″
Yes, All fish smaller than 28″ must be released and all fish 38″ or larger must be released.
Here’s a beautiful striped bass that Chris Colesante caught fishing aboard Fish Head Charters in the late fall of 2018. This striped bass went for a 2oz bucktail. It was quickly photographed and carefully released to hopefully spawn and recruit more health striped bass.
NJ Striped Bass Bonus Program
The 2020 Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP) runs from May 15 to December 31st. With the SBBP, an angler is allowed one fish at 24″ to less than 28″ per permit. SBBP Applications will be accepted April 1st. SBBP harvest reporting is mandatory within 24 hours.
Striped bass have a special gamefish status in New Jersey. Meaning there is no striped bass commercial fishing season. In 1990, the commercial quota was transferred to the recreational anglers and NJ’s Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP) was started. The quota is distributed between individual anglers and party/charter boats. The program has successfully allowed anglers to participate in providing valuable data on striped bass to the state’s fisheries management.
2021 Striped Bass Circle Hook Mandate
Coming down the pike next year in 2021, there will be a Striped Bass Circle Hook Mandate. The use of circle hooks will be mandatory when using natural bait. This means all anglers fishing baits (live or dead) from the beach or boat must use circle hooks. The traditional “J-Hook” style fishing hooks such as the Octopus, O’Shaughnessy, Bait Holder, Siwash, Wide Gap, Live Bait as well as weighed trebles hook snags will be prohibited.
Ron Archerr caught and released this linesider along with many other bass this fishing trip. He reported, “Got into nice fish every morning for three straight days. I lost a lot of sleep but was lucky enough to get in some good tides with friends and fish.”
NJ Bluefish Fishing Regs
New Jersey’s new 2020 Bluefish Regulations divided the recreational sector into two categories; Private and For-Hire. Private includes all land based recreational anglers as well as all anglers who fish from private boats. All anglers fishing aboard a For-Hire vessel with a licensed captain such as charter boats and party boats fall under the For-Hire category.
Private – 3 Fish Bag Limit
For-Hire – 5 Fish Bag Limit
With no closed season anglers are allowed to fish and harvest bluefish all year.
There is NO minimum size limit on bluefish. Therefore snapper blues, cocktails and tailor blues all have the same bag limit based on the category (private or for-hire).
This feisty bluefish crash a small topwater spook while fishing the flats of Barnegat Bay aboard Fish Head Charters. The yellow eye gave Brandon Carter an exciting surface feed and then an awesome fight on light tackle.Bluefish are one of the funnest fish to catch from the surf. These strong toothy tackle busters pull like mad dogs!
Winter for the most part was mild. It’s not by any means over, but it’s close! Spring is 23 Days Away! Better than that, March first is this Sunday and that means the backwaters will be fair game!
With the unseasonably mild weather, there’s anglers getting out and enjoying the outdoors. We’ve got a couple reports from anglers catching perch in the rivers and creeks. Some anglers fishing the state’s fresh waters are having a blast. Some good fun clamming going down too. No positive reports from the surf, but there is guys trying. There’s a bunch of catch and release guys who just couldn’t wait for March 1st on the back waters. Can you blame them?
We were going to report it previously but thought it was a bit too early. Now that “Opening Day” is technically less than a week away… Let’s let the cat out of the bag. The bass are snapping! The reports are too good to actually believe so we’ll just say the back water fishing is very good. Sorry no spot burns here. Look towards the early season spots which produce year in and year out. You’ll find them!
Yes, 38″ and larger must be released. Please respect the fish and get them back in the water fast. Try to hold your breath *Note: Not Yet Set In Stone… however will be anyday.
Winter Fishing Shows
Surf Day was awesome! Thanks to all who came out and stopped by the booth last weekend. Hope you all enjoyed the show just as much as we did. We are already looking forward to next year!
So what’s on the Fish Head’s schedule the next couple weeks? There’s alot going on at the shop with rod and reel repair. We already have our spring orders arriving so we’ll be stocked up!
Berkeley Striper Club’s 25th Fishermen’s Market
This Sunday March 1st is the Berkeley Striper Club’s 25th Annual Fishermen’s Flea Market. We’ll be there with a couple tables of essentials offering some steals and deals. This is one of the can’t miss shows packed with some of the North East’s best plug builders. It’s at the Toms River Intermediate North School, 150 Intermediate North Way, Toms River, NJ 08753. Be there when the doors open 9am.
The Saltwater Expo – Booth 445
Then March 13-15 we’ll be at the Saltwater Expo. Check us out at Booth 445. Be sure to attend this great three day show that is jam packed with a long list of seminars each and every day. You don’t want to miss out on the info that will be shared! The Saltwater Expo is at the NJ Convention & Expo Center, 97 Sunfield Ave Edison, NJ 08837. The show hours are Friday 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Surf Day 2020 is this Saturday. Save the date! You don’t miss out on the year’s best fishing show.
Who: The Jersey Shore Surfcasters
What: Surf Day 2020
When: Saturday Feb 22, 2020 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Where: Brookdale Community College at 765 Newman Springs Rd, Lincroft, NJ 07738
This pure surf fishing show run by JSS (the Jersey Shore Surfcasters) is well known as the best surf fishing show of the year. Many have tried to copy the format and ideas; however none come close. This long standing show is a must attend show for surfcasters of all ages and abilities.
The seminar schedule looks great this year with top speakers lined up. Dr. Doug Zemeckis from Rutgers will share “What We Know About Striped Bass” discussing striped bass biology, migrations patterns and status of population. Tom Kosinski will details information on “Fly Fishing The Spring Estuaries” and DJ Muller with “Four Keys To Surfcasting Kick Butt”.
Two that no one should miss are Bill Wetzel’s “Plug Selection” and Alberto Knie’s “Connection Trophy Catches” with hints about big fish habits. These are just some of the top seminars. There will be others too.
While the seminars are the backbone of the show, the special part is seeing the surf fishing community all under one roof. The networking and knowledge shared is second to none. Whether a rookie, novice or veteran Surf Day is for you.
The crew here at Fisherman’s Headquarters is looking forward to the show. We’ll have a full spread of surf fishing tackle, equipment and supplies from A to Z… all at Show Special Pricing. For those that have attended in the past, we will be at our same location. Upon entering walk through the cafeteria and into the main room. As you enter we are on the left side. Stop by and say hello!
Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association Mid-Winter Happenings
by Jim Hutchinson Sr.
Contrary to what many might imagine, the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association have not gone into hibernation. Rather they are up and about spreading the word about Beach Haven fishing at area fishing flea markets and fishing shows.
This Saturday, there will be BHCFA captains and junior mates at the Southern Regional High School Fishing Club’s annual fishing flea market. This very popular event is considered one of the best of its kind with many great bargains, and proceeds benefit the high school anglers. The event is at the Southern Regional Middle School in Manahawkin on Cedar Bridge Road and runs from 8am to 2pm.
The following week is the Philadelphia Fishing Show that runs for three days, Friday, February 21-23. It is held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at 100 Station Avenue in Oaks, Pennsylvania. In addition to manning the BHCFA’s booth, captains will also be attending some of the fishing seminars to hone their skills.
The following week BHCFA captains and junior mates will be on hand at the nationally famous Atlantic City Boat Show. This event runs from Wednesday, February 26 and ends on Sunday, March 1. It takes place at the Atlantic City Convention Center in Atlantic City.
The captains of the BHCFA urging anglers to shake the effects of cabin fever and come out to any or all of these events and check out what the captains and young mates have to say. Additional information on the BHCFA and its many activities can be obtained at www.BHCFA.net.
Van Staal Reels are built tough to give saltwater anglers the ability to fish with No Limitations. However like all fishing reels routine maintenance is required. This article details Van Staal Reel service information and highlights proper maintenance.
If you have questions or concerns about your Van Staal Reel contact us. Here at Fisherman’s Headquarters we are New Jersey’s Exclusive Factory Authorized Service & Warranty Center. It’s our goal to ensure your Van Staal Reels are running in tip top shape. Include this for when sending in a reel for service, repair or warranty…Van Staal Product Return Form
Saltwater fishing day in and day out takes a toll on fishing reels, but Van Staal Reels are made for it! With a little love they will last a lifetime. Photo: @bbvrke
Maintenance Matters – Care For & Protect Your Van Staal Reels
What can I do to keep my Van Staal fishing reel in best shape?
Van Staal fishing reels are built strong but that doesn’t mean they should be misused or neglected. There are a few key areas to check up on. Here are a few simple tips to help protect your investment.
First & Foremost Keep It Clean
A light fresh water wash after each fishing trip goes a long way! It’s good practice to look over reels regularly and lookout for any signs of salt, rust or oxidation. We suggest frequently (every trip or every other if fishing consecutive days) washing the reel with mild soap (not a degreaser) and a rag to remove salt deposits and grim. Be sure to remove the spool to wash the rotor cup where salt and sand commonly hide. Go the extra step, dry the reel and whip down with some WD40 on a rag. A little goes a long way to polish and protect.
Remove The Handle
Periodically remove the reel’s handle by holding rotor and turning the handle arm backwards. Once off, clean the male (stainless steel threaded gear stud) and female (aluminum handle hub). This connection need to be clean and lubricated with grease.
Inspect & Keep All Seals Wet
Inspect all seals to be sure they are clean and wet with Van Staal Reel Oil. Dry seals will make the reel feel tight and lead to premature failure.
Quad Seal At Main Shaft: Always keep the spool shaft clean and lubricated. The quad seal is one of the most important seals because it seals the main shaft and keep water out of the internal gear case. When the quad seal is dry, the reel becomes hard to turn.
How To Lubricate The Quad Seal? First, Remove the drag cap and then the spool from the main shaft. Second, Clean the shaft with an oil moisten lint free rag. Also clean the center of the rotor, the area around the shaft where the four screw heads are. Next, turn the rotor to fully extend the shaft. Then apply oil at the base of the shaft (point where it enters the body cavity) and rotate the rotor. The shaft will oscillate down and wet the quad seal inside the body cavity. Wipe off excess oil overflow and repeat a couple more times.
Spool Seal At Drag: The main spool seal found on the top of the spool should be kept clean and wet with oil. It’s good practice to inspect for rust. Rust will be present if the steel clad is exposed. This is a tell tale sign the seal needs to be replaced.
Gear Stud Seal At Handle: This area is addressed in the previous part listed above, “Remove The Handle”.
Clean Drag Cap
The drag knob is a well know area where sand and salt can hide. It’s best to clean the female portion of the knob with a q-tip. Then lubricate with a small amount of grease. Grease grabs and holds sand so use a minimal amount.
This spool and drag knob as it came off of the same reel photo listed below. Even though they aren’t really dirty it is easy to see the sand on the spool and by the drag seal. If the drag knob was over greased you can guarantee this drag knob would of been all caked up with sand.
Inspect Line Roller
Line rollers take a ton of abuse! They are always wet with saltwater and sandy when on the beach. They also get beat on jetties and in boulder fields. On top of that, braided line is very abrasive and can groove a line roller. It’s very important to check the line roller often and oil.
Is the line roller turning free and smooth? Sometimes all that is needed is some oil; however in some cases, the seal could have failed and the bearing could be compromised.
Is the line roller showing any signs of wear? If grooved, replace the line roller assembly in order to prevent damage to the fishing line.
Van Staal Lubricants
As per Van Staal factory specifications, Use Only 85w-90 hypoid gear oil (Buy Van Staal Reel Oil Here) and Nye Rheolube Grease (Buy Van Staal Reel Grease Here) for lubrication purposes. Rheolube is the right viscosity and also has anti-wear, anti-oxidation and anti-corrosion additives. In a pinch a good quality marine grease such as Penn Reel’s Blue Marine Reel Grease is a ok substitute.
As per the Van Staal factory specifications, Do Not Use synthetic lubricants such as Royal Purple or Super Lube PTFE Oil. It’s not necessary and can cause problems because the butyl seals on Van Staal reels are not compatible with teflon and synthetic based lubricants.
Van Staal Complete Service Maintenance Schedule
Everyone’s maintenance schedule can be different. Depending on the number of hours fish and the style of fishing we recommended the following Complete Service Maintenance Schedule….
Hard Use – Fished hard (more than 30 days a season) and/or submerged frequently, regularly splashed during the season. An Annual Complete Service By A Van Staal Service Center Is A Must!
Common Use: Fished Occasionally (10-30 days a season) and/or commonly splashed but rarely submerged. A Complete Service Should Be Done Once A Year Or Every Other Year.
Lightly Used Reels: Fished infrequently (<12 trips a season) a few times a year. Rarely splashed. A Complete Service Should Be Done Every Other Year.
In certain cases the complete service intervals can be stretched out however it is very important to promptly address any water intrusion. The worst thing an owner can do is put a reel away for storage with saltwater inside. For this reason it is suggested to service reels at the end of the season.
This Van Staal Reel was fished hard and put away wet. The next season it wasn’t working right so it was sent in for service. It was definitely due for some TLC. Dirty Reel? Clean It Up!
Van Staal Service & Repair Center
To ensure a complete and proper job, Van Staal suggests reel owners use only factory authorized service locations. Fisherman’s Headquarters is NJ’s Exclusive Factory Authorized Service & Warranty Center serving all Van Staal reel owners worldwide with VS, VSX, VM and VR reels as well as VS Pliers.
A Van Staal Reel Complete Service is $49.95 plus the price of required parts. The Van Staal technician carefully inspects and reviews the reel, completely disassembles, degreases, cleans, internal inspection, lubrication and reassembles. All seals are replaced. Wear items (such as bushings, drag washers, line roller, among others) are replaced if worn. All reels pass a multi point check list before completion.
Reels can be shipped in or dropped off. On the spot service is by appointment only. To send in your Van Staal Reel for service… First, the Van Staal Product Return Form and be sure to include with your reel. Be sure to pack your reel appropriately to ensure safe transit. Also ship using a service with tracking and insurance via UPS or FedEx.
Spring was on the mind today! What a beautiful sunny day with a high of 62 degrees. That forecast sounds more like a spring day and it felt that way on the beach. Thanks to a strong sou’wester, I enjoyed the south swell that was pumping on the Ship Bottom beach today.
While walking the beach (up current) I talked to a couple surf anglers, but notta. With the mild ocean temp and abundance of birds roaming I’m confident there’s linesiders roaming the surf.
Just a heads up… the ocean/surf is open to fishing; however the inlets, back bays and rivers are close. With the striped bass stocks in need of help, please know the law and respect the species. Right now there’s basically two fisheries… tautog and white perch.
Tog Fishing Report
NJ Tautog Fishing Season is open Jan1 to Feb 29th, 15″ 4 fish creel.
Store staffer Blake was out this week (a couple days ago) aboard the No Moores. He reported some a savage bites on the ever so deadlyMagictail Tog Jigs.
This late season 14lb togzilla went for a crab baited Magictail tog jig aboard the No Moores!
Blake landed a monster, his new personal best 14 pounds, on a 1.5oz jig! Word is Dave will be keeping his boat in the water cause the fishing and weather is good. We are looking forward to more solid reports from the crew. Dave and the boat has had a killer 2019 and their 2020 is off to a great start!
Dante at Magictails was into good fishing recently aboard the No Limit down Delaware. He said the hogs were hammering, “Seven biggins from 10-18.5 pounds!!!!”
White Perch Fishing Report
So far this year, white perch fishing has been good. We got a few reports from local angler Gary Adair. A few days back “I caught a quick 70 perch for a fish fry. It was fun fishing because it bring me back to my childhood.”
Florida Fishing
Store staffer Frezza and Jay are finishing up a strike mission down in the sunshine state and they reported fishing has been good all week. Frezza said, “We have mangrove snapper at our dock along with pinfish (catching for bait). We hunted down some sheepshead and got them up to 20″. Looking for redfish but only found a couple. Lots of speckled trout at the mangroves! In total we caught 11 different species and had a blast doing so. We are already planning our next trip back.”
Here’s store staffer Jay with one of many speckled trout caught along the mangroves.
5 Extraordinary Saltwater Fishing Reels great for targeting a variety of species from inshore, offshore and from shore. Here’s our top five picks which cover a lot of ground from Dependable Fishing Reel Brands…
Are you looking to buy a new saltwater fishing reel? Do you have questions or need help with a Fishing Reel?
Here at Fish Heads we are ready to assist. We fish and want to help you catch both more and bigger fish! Stop in, Call Or Email Us Today!
Penn International Big Game Reels
The Big Game Brute
Sea monsters demand the most because they didn’t get that big being stupid. When it comes to big game fishing reels drag, gearing, bearings and line capacity are four of the most important specifications. But none of that matters if the frame (body) isn’t rock solid. Penn International Fishing Reels have a strong ridged body holds everything together and aligned during a long heated battle. Proven over decades of big fish, tournament wins, and record setting the Penn International Reels are a family of extraordinary saltwater fishing reels that are dependable and made in the USA. Redesigned in 2017, the Penn International Big Game Reels are better than ever.
When going to hunt down tuna, billfish or sharks gear up first with Penn International Series Reels for the ultimate big game weapon.
Van Staal X-Series Spinning Reels
Made For The Salt & Surf
Van Staal Fishing Reels are hands down the best spinning reel for surf fishing. All metal, sealed and built like a tank… Fish With No Limitations… Fish Van Staal and own the surf.
Van Staal Reels are made for the salt and surf. Photo: Brad Bankos
These extraordinary saltwater fishing reels come in a full size ranging from 100 to 275 there’s a size for every fishing situation. The VS100 is perfect for kayak fishing as well as ultralight wade fishing. The most popular and most versatile for surfcasting, the VS150 & VS200 sizes match up great with rods in the 8-10′ range. The VS250 is the right choice when targeting big fish in big surf. It’s a perfect match on 10-11′ surf rods for fishing lures of all sizes. The VS275 is a specialty reel that’s great for launching lures the furthest (3″ spool diameter) and cranking quick in fast current (40″ per turn, the fastest retrieve of the bunch). Learn about Van Staal VR Series, a more affordable series of reels here.
Compact, versatile, powerful, durable… These key traits anglers demand are what Avet Fishing Reels offers. Precision machined in the USA, Avet Reels have a one piece frame and stainless gearing for ultimate strength and durability. The indestructible anti-reverse system, combined with Avet’s dry carbon drag offers one of the most smooth, wear resistant, reliable stopping power drag systems. The corrosion resistance anodized finish really tops off these beautiful reels.
Avet lever drag fishing reels are powerful and compact allowing anglers the freedom to target a variety of species utilizing different tactics with the same reel.
Avet has a reel for every type of saltwater fishing from jigging, live bait, chunking and trolling. They even offer a Magic Cast, magnetic cast control option, for those pitching irons and looking to launch long distances. These extraordinary saltwater fishing reels have a cult following. Experience an Avet and join it today!
Available in a variety of options there is an Avet Reel for everyone. This photo details a blue Avet with the Magic Cast options. The magnetic cast control system is fine tuned by using the adjustment dial shown here.
Daiwa BG Spinning Reels
Quality Features At A Great Price
Quite possibly the best value in saltwater fishing reels, the Daiwa BG Series offers a ton of quality features at a great price. Packing the largest main gear in its class anglers love the smooth cranking power. The sloppy play found in most other reels is NOT present in the BG due to its solid screw in handle design. The powerful waterproof drag and dual anti reverse (on 4500 sizes and larger) stop big game fish fast.
But if you are looking for a reel with a little extra bells and whistles… take a look at the Daiwa Saltist. The added Magseal feature in the Saltist Series offers extended performance and long lasting smoothness. Both the anti-reverse roller bearing and line roller bearing are Magsealed. Daiwa also offers the Saltist Back Bay Series that’s a perfect specialty lineup for shallow water anglers.
The joy of fishing Daiwa reels is fully understood once used and hooked up! Here’s a happy anglers aboard Fish Head Charters with Captain Greg Cudnik.
Shimano Tranx Levelwind Reel
The Ultimate Saltwater Low Profile Reel
The Shimano Tranx is the ultimate saltwater low profile reel. It’s the perfect level wind reel that fits right in your palm. Offing all day comfort the Tranx is perfect for casting and jigging targeting all inshore species; striped bass, fluke, tautog, snook, redfish and even fresh water bass and musky.
Fish all day in comfort with the Shimano Tranx, the ultimate saltwater low profile fishing reel. From casting and jigging to bottom fishing, the Shimano Tranx reel can do it all. As shown in the photo above the Shimano Tranx HG models comes with a round power grip knob. The standard models have a dual paddle handle.
What sets the Tranx apart from the rest?
Exclusive X-Ship & HEG designs provide massive cranking power yet smooth and effortless retrieve. Special water resistant technology (CoreProtect) provides long-lasting durability. Available in two sizes and two gear ratios as well as right and left hand there’s a Tranx for everyone! These extraordinary saltwater fishing reels are a favorite among the team at Fish Heads for fluke, striped bass and tog!
Why ask a Facebook group and get conflicting info from the unknown? Why watch an influencer’s video on Youtube about something they were paid to produce? Why not ask an expert?
Outfitting anglers with fishing tackle since 1962, factory trained and authorized service centers for major tackle brands, it’s safe to say the crew at Fish Heads is AN EXPERIENCED & accredited source. Experience The Fish Heads Difference Today!
Kicking off the new year, serious anglers are taking advantage of the mild temperatures. The weather has been surprisingly warm but it isn’t going to stay that way all winter so get out and enjoy! Here’s our first fishing report for 2020.
Striped Bass Still On The Surf
Recently reports from anglers fishing the suds in the fog this weekend were good. A couple reports from the longtime legends of surfcasting who are still hitting it hard even though it’s January. Shell E. fished with his son and reported, “Caught 9 between the two of us.”
Another report came in from DJ Muller who shared, “Still having fun! All fat and health bass juiced up on the beach. Two were almost keepers.” He caught them on rubber paddle tails.
Inshore Tautog Fishing Off LBI
The tog fishing in 2020 picked up right where it left off at the end of the year. Fishing has been very good for most anglers.
Very good fishing reported today reported by Swagmattic. Matt shared, “Three guys today with over 30 keepers up to 12lbs. We had a number in the 6-8 pound range.”
NJ Saltwater Tog Fishing Regulations For 2020 – Currently 4 Fish Bag Limit January 1 – February 29 (it’s a leap year). Then it’s closed for all of March and reopens April 1st.
NJ Sea Bass Fishing Regulations For 2020 – Currently Black Sea Bass is closed until spring.
The 2019 season is finishing off with a bang! Thanks to a mild and tranquil weather pattern the fishing front this past week has been strong. Here’s a fishing report update for Saturday Evening December 28, 2019.
Tog Fishing
On the boat, the Tog fishing is arguably the best it has been all year. Lots of double-digit sized blackfish are coming over the rail and it seems to only be getting better the past two weeks. Magictail Tog Jigs continue to outperform being one of the most effective big fish approaches responsible for remarkable catches. From winning a number of tournaments to putting daily double digit blackfish on the deck these tog jigs are the real deal! Recently shop regular Chris O’Brien got a 16# male tog fishing with Captain Steve Moran of White Crab Charters.
Captain Mike Kelly of On Point Charters has been on the white chins all season and really dialed in recently. He had 4 fish over 10lbs since Monday with countless 4-8lb roasters. It’s prime time for big fish now! So if you are looking to break your personal best, now is the time! Stop by Fish Heads and gear up with the right equipment and go wreck hunting!
Here’s store staffer Frezza with a recent large catch that fell for a Magictail Tog Jig.
Fish Head Ambassador Matt “Swagmattic” has been out on the water just about everyday this past week. He knows that the brutal winter could set in soon so he’s getting every hour of fishing in he can. He reported, “The fishing has been very. I’m catching a lot of tog with some good size ones!”
Here’s a recent photo of Matt with a double double from a recent trip.
Today (Saturday) Matt reported, “(We had) Slow fishing today. We put our time in and made some moves. Ended up working for them and put together a respectable catch. Four guys, fifteen fish, two 8’s and a 12# so it wasn’t a bad day. But it was much slower compare to the last couple of days. I’m looking forward to fishing tomorrow before this weather comes.”
The weather he's referring to is an area of low pressure that's expected to develop offshore of us, giving rain, blowing ENE winds and swell. It clears out Tuesday with offshore winds, becoming more breezy Wednesday. Thursday look looks like the first day to get in the first fishing of 2020.
Sea Bass Fishing
Deep water sea bass fishing offshore is and has been very productive. The light winds and fair seas as of late offered prime opportunities for anglers even in small boats to get out to the Edge. Most are running 60-80 miles where anglers are fishing hot jig bites with knuckle head sea bass in the 4-7# range. Over the rail and into the pale drop and reel fishing is reported by most all going. Also in the mix… nice sized Haddock, Pollack, Cod, and even Weakfish.
Striped Bass Fishing
School-sized striped bass are still running the beaches. The same deadly late season approach is doing the trick… metal and soft plastic sand eel imitations. Jeff Shapiro stopped in the shop today (Saturday) and reported catching over a dozen bass in the 16-22″ range on the North End surf.
Another surf report came in from Rob Swift, “Got a 22″bass on the south end surf at dusk fishing a green teaser.”
We only got one report from bassin’ on the boat. Professor Fish Head Dave Werner reported, “The flattest ocean but so dead. Ran all over and couldn’t find a bass. We should of went tog fishing!”
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