December 31, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:00 PM

Gene from Iowa stopped in the shop yesterday evening and shared a report. Gene said, “I stopped in the shop and got some frozen bunker earlier today (yesterday). Another customer was getting bait too. We ended up fishing somewhat close to each other on the mid-island surf. I tried fishing lures but could not get a touch. I managed one 28.5″ bass on a frozen bunker chunk. The other angler close by caught a 33″ bass. He also lost a much bigger fish in the wash.”

Just a heads up reminder…as 2015 comes to a close so does the back bay striper season in New Jersey. Also another reminder from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and its Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW)… effective midnight on January 1, the 2015 Striped Bass Bonus Program will close for individuals and party/charter boats. All bonus permits issued in 2015 will not be valid in 2016. Those anglers and party/charter boat captains who held striped bass bonus permits in 2015 have until January 31, 2016 to submit their season logbooks.

December 30, 2015 ——————————————————–

Received: Dec 29, 2015 5:48 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – It’s far from over!!

The continued mild weather has prolonged our fall migration to not only December but looks like into the 2016 New year!!

Not only bass of trophy size still being caught up the beach in some of our Northern communities but bluefish as well! which tells me we still have some fishing ahead us.

Bass and blues were still blitzing schools of bunker just North of our inlet this week while most of us were enjoying our Holidays with friends and family. Yes!! Sang and drop in LATE December!! Surf fishermen were cashing in on most of the activity due to formidable ocean conditions.

Very rewarding Black fishing has been producing fish in the 3-10lbs class range for the savvy bottom fishermen looking to test their skills against these crafty brutes.

I will be running an open boat trip this Sunday January 3rd for all of the above for those not willing to stop fishing just because of a turning of a calendar page. Come meet new fishing friends and keep the salt flowing through your veins!! $175.00pp all bait, tackle ,rods and fish cleaning included.

I am very excited and honored to announce I have been selected for the 3rd time as a returning faculty member to the countries largest fishing seminar series produced by “The SaltWater Sportsman” Magazine slated for February in Atlantic City!!

I am also very excited to announce that I will be part of “Mr. Salt Water Fishing” himself George Poveromo’s World of Salt Water Fishing TV series for an episode on NBC sports on February

Happy, Healthy and prosperous New Year!!

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

December 29, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM

Lots of fish around! Surprisingly there’s some really nice quality ones mixed in. The beaches of LBI continue to produced. Also reports from beaches north of LBI were spectacular yesterday. The town beaches of Ortley and Lavallette were on fire. Some local anglers headed north and got into the action. As reported below by Captain David D his buddy Nick Honachefsky jointed the 50-lb club yesterday. Nick posted a photo on Facebook of the cow on the sand still hooked up to the teaser, ” My journey is over. After 41 years of life searching for the surf striper of a lifetime, the day has finally come. New Jersey surf, December 28, 2015, Northeast 25 knots, 5 to 6 foot whitewater surf, 4 PM on the dead low tide and only me and the ocean together, fishing on my old beach I haven’t fished since Sandy, not another soul in sight. Cast an Ava jig with Tsunami sand eel teaser into the whitewater and the magic happened, though I’ll save the whole battle tale for another day. She taped out at 49 to 50 inches to the fork, and 29 to 30 inches in girth which through the IGFA calculator puts her at 51.51 to 55.13 pounds. The 50 Club. The largest bass I’ve probably ever caught even from a boat. I am so humbled by her presence, and only had her out of the water for less than a minute before she tail slapped me in the surf on her way back through the crashing waves. I am still shaking!”

While some have put away the gear for the year, there are still some anglers taking advantage of the late season fishery. Store staffer Blake hit the surf yesterday for a sunset session and found fish with ease. He said there were big hickory shad and striped bass rolling on small bait in the surf. He caught three bass. One was well over 20-lbs. Blake mentioned that he did all the work with a Daiwa SP Minnow. He said other anglers fishing nearby caught both bass and bluesfish on lures.

Received: Dec 29, 2015 3:00 PM Subject: Still Fishing! West Wind All Weekend!

We are staying in the water as long as this weather holds up. Air temps in the mid 40’s through the weekend. I spoke to a captain who was out on Monday who told me the ocean temp was 53. The surf reports from Mantoloking, Ortley, and Seaside are showing good catches of bass even through the high winds and heavy surf we had all week. Congratulations to my friend Nick Honachefsky who beached and released his first 50 pound bass yesterday from that area.

The marine forecast has it turning west tonight (Tues) and staying W and NW through Monday. The ocean should lay out by Thursday so we will be running Open Boat or charter Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun, and Mon, Dec. 31-Jan 4. Leaving each day at 7AM and returning sometime in the afternoon, minimum 6 hours but probably longer. The target will be stripers. If we catch a day with no wind or light and variable we could also look for those near shore bluefin tuna. This time of year they cruise pretty close to shore, commonly only 7 to 10 miles offshore. A fair amount have been decked over the last few weeks already. They are on the surface crashing bait, going airborne. Anywhere from 50 to 150 pound fish. Casting topwater lures and soft plastics with heavy spinning gear is usually the norm. I’ve done it a few times with my boat and the next hit I get will be the first! Which, isn’t a deterrent by any stretch….in fact it fuels me! I have all the lures I’m supposed to. I set up a pair of heavy spinning outfits that are up to the task. I know where to look for them. We just have to get one to eat. I’m packing some live bait that I saved for the occasion, as well. The last time I set out for these fish I spent four hours chasing and not catching them and it was so exciting it went by like the blink of an eye. Keep in mind we are looking for a flat ocean to wander offshore with my boat, if not, it will be all striper hunting. I just wanted to plant the seed with this possibility as I am chomping at the bit to go.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

December 28, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:00 PM

We got a call this morning from an angler on the beach. He reported catching one bass, his buddy got two. They’re up there if you want to go. Surf City and Ship Bottom is where most of the fish have been.

Received: Dec 27, 2015 8:53 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Hard to believe that the year is about to end and I am typing a report. I had Rick Galiardo and his brother, Chris, out looking to catch a fish in December today. They didn’t have to look to hard 😉 With ocean conditions less than favorable for running and gunning, we looked around for bait on the sounder close to the inlet. After finding some Atlantic herring, we loaded up the live well and came back in to see if there were any bass looking for a holiday treat. Sure enough there were. They caught several bass from 25” to 36” in between the spiny dogfish. Picture attached is Chris with his 36” fish. After dropping them off I realized I had two live herring left, so what do you think I did? Yep, I went and swam the remaining baits and ended up landing a 38” bass. Not a bad way the end an amazing season and wonderful year aboard the Debbie M. Thanks to everyone who made it out with me this year! Looking forward to having you out fishing again next year and seeing those whom I may not have seen in a while.

Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

December 26, 2015 ——————————————————–

7:00 PM

The onshore winds this morning produced some great conditions! Store staffer Blake was on the beach and reported catching. He said, “There were lots of gannets working and bass on the beach. I missed one nice bite right in close on a bottle plug. Another anglers fishing close by got a nice one too. I wish I got up earlier this morning.” The water temperature is still prime so the fish and bait haven’t moved. The fish are eating lures and bait. The best lures are white rubber swim shads rigged on a lead head and bucktails. Get out an enjoy the the mild temperatures.

December 24, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:30 PM

From all of us at Fisherman’s Headquarters, Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

We will be closing early today (2-ish) and we will be closed tomorrow, Christmas Day. We’ll be open normal time Saturday morning at 6am.

Received: Dec 24, 2015 9:01 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters

I would like to sincerely thank everyone both new and old friends who have taken the time to fish with me this season. My endeavor has continued to reward me in so many ways to experience fishing through the eyes of anglers who have scored their “biggest”, “first”, “most” almost on a daily basis [and sometimes all 3 in the same day] . For that I am truly thankful and blessed.

The 2015 Fall migration will go down as one of those memorable striped bass runs that witnessed wave after wave of both quality and quantity! With few exceptions anglers aboard the Reel Fantasea experienced world class “Montauk like” striped bass fishing while witnessing visual surface strikes from marauding striped bass. Acres [miles on some days!!] of visible striped bass reeked havoc on vast schools of various baits along our coast for most of the fall season making for not only “epic” fishing action but visually exciting experience as well.

Feeding and breaching whales were also consistently encountered providing even more exciting visual opportunity for our anglers.

While the 2015 fishing season is running out of days simply due to the waning calendar, the stretch of mild weather certainly is not the culprit as weather has been more likened to early fall or late spring. With the mild temps forecasted for this winter we will continue our season into 2016 while targeting black fish and even any remaining stripers if the opportunity presents it’s self. We will be sailing Saturday and Sundays as long as weather and participation permit.

From mine to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy, healthy New Years!!

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

December 23, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM

Steve George stopped by the shop this afternoon and checked out the new Van Staal VR Series reels. Our in house Van Staal Reel Tech Lou gave him the walk through of all its features. He also did a quick disassemble and reassemble to show its simple, easy to service design yet very strong and durable.

While here Steve weighed in a 16-lb bass. He caught it this morning on a white swim shad fishing deep in the back bay. Steve posted on his Facebook page, “It maybe a 60-70 degrees Christmas week here at the Jersey Shore but residents are heading to their winter homes.”

Other anglers were in the shop today purchasing gifts for friends and family members. Most talked about what a great fall it was. Some anglers reported what a great season it continues to be. “There’s great fishing off the surf.” One angler said, “Quality fish too. The other day the bass had bait right in close. Most days the bass wanted bunker but some days are productive with lures. The mid-island surf has been the place from Harvey Cedars to Brant Beach.”

Even though we are officially in the winter season, it sure doesn’t feel like it. The near record warmth has been really nice. While the past couple days have been rainy and grey, no one is complaining. We’ll take mild and wet unsettled weather over windy and cold any day.

December 22, 2015 ——————————————————–

11:30 AM

Yesterday afternoon/evening we got a small delivery of fresh bunker. We’ve got some left but not a whole lot.

Rob Vallone said he made a couple casts this morning off of the mid-island surf and then the rain moved it. He didn’t get a bite but reported his buddy caught one on a swim shad. He said, “My dad had fish this week on the surf fishing clam. The water temp is holding in the low 50’s and these fish are hanging around.” Rob also said gave us heads, “The black fishing is awesome! This year the fish have been hot on the inshore structure, much closer than other years. Yesterday I was out on the Ocean Explorer and we hammered the tog. I’m going to head further offshore soon and get back into the sea bass and cod action. It has been great fishing.”

Rob mentioned that there are good numbers of winter flounder in Shark River. These flatties could be on the move through Barnegat Bay. It might be a good option to chum up some of the flounder spots and see what’s lurking.

December 21, 2015 ——————————————————–

11:30 AM

There’s still some nice fish around this neck of the woods… We had a nice fish (a 27 pounder) weighed in this morning from the Ship Bottom surf. The angler stopped by with the lively fish and reported, “I was planning on going out in the boat but it was foggy so I hit the beach.” Here is a photo.

Just a heads up the Van Staal VR Series Reel are in. The delivery just arrived this morning. Stop by and check them out.

Received: Dec. 21, 2015 9:19 AM Subject: Bait

Morning guys just wanted to see if u guys had fresh bunker in stock the website only had yesterday’s bait status. Also are bass and blues still being caught from the surf or is it pretty much over for the season. Thank you, Jayson O’Brien

Sorry we are sold out of both fresh bunker and surf clam. All we have is salted clam and live green crabs. We expect a small delivery of fresh bunker later today but there is no guarantee.

As far as our local fishing goes, participation is way down; however, the fishing is still very good. This weekend positive reports came from those who fished. Both bass and blues are here. We recently had a 13-lb bass weighed in and this morning a 27 pounder. There is a population of fish here now that has been here. How long they stay is anyone’s guess. El Nino has given us above average temperatures and it looks to stay that way for sometime. There will be anglers fishing into the new year.

~ FishHead.Greg

December 19, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM

Tom Dolan of Monroe, NJ weighed in a 36.5″ 13-lb 13-oz bass. He was fishing the Ship Bottom surf with his buddy Tim. Tom hooked up on a yellow popper. He said there was bait present but they only managed one fish.

Another customer stopped in about an hour after Tom’s weigh-in and reported his buddy just gave him the call, “I got a pair of bass on small bunker chunks. Come up and join me before dark.”

Greg O’Connell posted a photo on Facebook today of his son holding a 33″ bluefish with the caption “December 19th and there’s still 33″ bluefish in the LBI surf… Crazy” When asked “bait or lure” He answered, “Both, but bait is catching more and bigger fish.”

1:00 PM

Bob Mueller stopped in this morning bearing gifts. As always, thanks Bob for the pretzels. While here Bob said that he caught a nice bass off of the surf on clam yesterday.

December 18, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:00 PM

Store staffer Blake fished the surf this morning on the north end he reported getting grasses out. “Lots of weed. It was unfishable.” Blake shared that some guys mid-island had fish on bucktails.

Some fresh bunker arrived late this morning.

December 17, 2015 ——————————————————–

Uncle Josh Pork Rind Situation… originally posted 12/16/2015 at 8:30AM

On Monday (12/14) we got the call from Uncle Josh with bad news. Uncle Josh Pork Rind, the proven product that northeast striped bass anglers have fished and loved for so many years is on its way out. Wait! What! How could they? Adam explained the whole situation and said the decision was made and there’s no turning back. “Last week production stopped. Equipment has already moved out.” Adam went on describing the situation, “It was a lengthy production process with a large amount of waste and inconsistent raw material.”

Uncle Josh has made pork rind since 1921! It is and has been a staple in the northeast fishery because nothing comes close to the strip bait’s like-like action. Yes Berkley has an outstanding product line that took the world by storm, Gulp scented softbaits. But there’s a huge population of anglers who demand pork rind on their jigs for action not scent. There’s a bucktail resurgence thanks to John Skinner’s book (Fishing The Bucktail: Mastering Bucktails from Surf and Boat) among other books and John’s videos ( www.youtube.com/user/jskinner5278 ). In the past couple of years the bucktail, one of the oldest lures out there, has become a popular and trendy lure. With huge increase in sales its complementary product Pork Rind has done very well for us too.

When we got the news, we took action. Fortunately for us and our customers Uncle Josh had (at the time of the phone call) plenty of product in stock; however it was expected to be gone soon. “All of the major wholesalers will put in their last order any day.” We were told. “The last of the product will ship out very soon and then that’s it.” We got the call ahead of the pack and took advantage. We’ve got a pile of pork coming. How long will our stock last? It’s unknown. One thing is sure… If you are an anglers who loves to fish the pig and jig style now is the time to hoard all the pork rind you can get. Being a long time established tackle shop who’s always worked closely with suppliers and manufactures pays off once and a while.

If you would like to get some Pork give us a call and put in your order. As soon as the delivery shows we’ll be shipping. We already have orders in… First in. First out.

~FishHead.Greg

2:30 PM

We got a call from a customer who said the bass and blues were chewing in the Inlet yesterday. He fished the rocks and caught a number of fish. The bluefish that are here are good size, most 10-lb+. Most of the bass are schoolies.

11:00 AM

Yesterday “Home Depot” Rick Ship Bottom stopped by in the morning and dropped of some Christmas gifts for the crew. THANKS RICK!!! While here he picked up some fresh bunker and hit the surf. He stopped back in the afternoon with a keeper bass. Rick said he had two bites on bunker but only came tight on one. Rick mentioned he was fishing the south end surf. He said there was a guy casting metal down the beach from him and he saw that anglers hook and land about a 15 pound bass.

Received: Dec. 17, 2015 10:50 AM Subject: Open Boat Stripers this Weekend

Here’s the marine forecast for Friday thru Sunday, Dec18-20:
TONIGHT W WINDS 10 TO 15 KT WITH GUSTS UP TO 20 KT.
FRI NW WINDS 10 TO 15 KT…INCREASING TO 15 TO 20 KT LATE.
FRI NIGHT W WINDS 20 TO 25 KT…INCREASING TO 25 TO 30 KT
SAT W WINDS 25 TO 30 KT.
SAT NIGHT W WINDS 20 TO 25 KT…DIMINISHING TO 15 TO 20 KT
SUN W WINDS 10 TO 15 KT.
Perfection! All that W and NW is going to flatten out the ocean. We can cruise North to South all we want in calm water looking for birds and fish. I say fish instead of stripers because there’s a big body of gator blues that have invaded our area. I think it’s fine because they mix well with the bass and they offer great sport on any tackle. They might not be anyone’s choice for the table but it’s hard to beat for sport. Especially at this size, these are legitimate 10 to 18 pound blues. Most of the bass we had on our last few trips were in that 24 to 28 inch slot, we had a few over 28’s. We have the bonus tags for everyone on board to keep one of these fish if you like.

There’s been a lot of birds and readings allowing us to break out the 10 pound spinning gear. If that slows up, we always have the trolling gear, but only if you guys want to troll. There’s a lot of opinions in that arena. Some guys “do not want to troll” under any circumstances and some want to catch by “any means possible”. I understand both sides and usually approach it as we will always try to cast or jig lures with the spinning and conventional outfits first. Or snag and drop bunker. But if none of that is working and we don’t have the readings or birds to make us feel like our effort might get rewarded, then we troll. Lately, that’s been working really well. The smallest Tony Maja spoons, number one size in chartreuse. Umbrella rigs and Mojos. They’re all hooking up. The good thing is I haven’t had to put out the heavy bunker spoon rods with 300 feet of wire. Instead we have been using our 5 1/2′ rods with smaller reels and only 150′ of wire. We’re fishing in tighter to the shoreline so these rods are perfect and they don’t beat you up as much.

Water temp is still hanging in the low 50 degrees and the air temps for the weekend look like 30 to 40 degrees, more normal for this time of year, but still not bad. After that we go right back up to the 50’s with some 60’s next week! We are going to keep sailing every day availability as long as the fish are here and the weather stays like this. Sailing Friday, Sat, and Sun, Dec 18, 19, and 20. Open Boat or Charter. 7AM to 1PM. $170 person. 3 people max. All fish are shared. Don’t be afraid to call last minute. I often sail with a partial crew and you can get on board right up until “go time”.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

December 16, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:30 PM

William Mo the Barber was in today getting some bait. He reported catching on the surf the past couple days. “Yesterday I got one keeper and two shorts as well as a couple shorts on Monday. All on clam.

Another customer reports bait on the beach this morning but not a bite.

8:30 AM – Pork Rind!

I recently got a very unfortunate phone call from Adam at Uncle Josh. He shared some really bad news. Uncle Josh Pork Rind, the product that northeast striped bass anglers have fished and loved for so many years is on its way out. Wait! What! How could they? Adam explained the whole situation and said the decision was made and there’s no turning back. “Last week production stopped. Equipment has already moved out.” Adam went on describing the situation, “It was a lengthy production process with a large amount of waste and inconsistent raw material” Times are changing. Uncle Josh has made pork rind since 1921.

The one good thing is at the time of the phone call they had a lot of product in stock; however he expects all of the major wholesalers to put in their last order this week. The last of the product will ship out very soon and then that’s it. Fortunately we got this call and took advantage. We’ve got a pile of pork coming. How long will our stock last? It’s unknown. One thing is sure… If you are an anglers who loves to fish the pig and jig style now is the time to hoard all the porkrind you can get. I’m sure it will go fast. I guess being a long time established tackle shop who’s always worked closely with suppliers and manufactures pays off once and a while.

~FishHead.Greg

December 15, 2015 ——————————————————–

10:30 AM

Yesterday we got a couple reports from the surf. Store staffer Blake hit the beach in the afternoon and reported picking two bass plugging on the north end surf. Later in the day we got heads up from Dante that there were bass up to 36″ chewing bucktails in the surf not far from the shop. D also said that he caught one bluefish. He reported, “I guess it is not time to give up yet. Fish almost every cast!!! BEst week of plugging LBI’s beaches in four years.”

Jay Mann posted on his blog yesterday that he took surf temp readings at a number of beach sites and posted that the surf temp is 55 degrees. That has to be a record for mid December. The Barnegat Light Bay Buoy at the Coast Guard Station is reading 52 degrees today.

Looking at the weather, the temps look to stay mild for the foreseeable future. The long range forecast has highs in the upper 50’s from Tuesday December 22nd through the 29th. It’s shocking to see Christmas Eve’s forecast high of 63 degrees. We’ll have to wait and see how it all plays out. How long with this go on? Our fishing will easily go into the new year. With one of the strongest El Nino events on record January could have potential.

Received: Dec. 14, 2015 7:56 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Fishing Report

With unseasonably mild weather continuing it’s daily trend and vast schools of bait along our coast schools of stripers and big blues continue to provide excellent light tackle opportunities with few exceptions. Black fish in the 3-10lbs have also provided both excellent action and freezer filling fun! Albeit the bigger class of stripers have continued their southerly sojourn , smaller stripers in denser schools have taken up residence and are teaming up with big gator blues and are testing both angler skills and tackle.

Strangely enough, Sunday, what had to be one of the most memorable weather experiences in the month of December with temps almost reaching 70 along with winds light and variable which proved to be the most challenging in the way of fishing. It was actually surreal as I had to keep reminding myself that it was December and not mid May. I marked loads of fish all morning but the schools were spread out and not tightly packed possibly indicating that there was no urgent need to feed with the mild weather.

We will continue to be running trips until weather, fishing or interest warrant otherwise. I have a few available spot for this Friday [forecast is for NW, NW is best]. Targeting light tackle stripers and blues. All rods are light spinning tackle and are well matched for the bass and blues on hand. $175.00 pp.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

December 14, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:30 PM

“Peanut bunker and herring on the beach mid-island!” Customer in the shop just reported catching four bass (mid 20″ range) this morning off of the Brant Beach surf. He said the bait was in the wash.

9:00 AM

Last night we had a nice bass hit the scale from the mid-island surf. Check out the report listed below.

More reports came in yesterday from anglers out on the water enjoying a flat calm ocean. The wreck/bottom fishing has been very good. Reports of anglers hammering tog and sea bass among others (cod and pollock). There are also guys on the search of bluefin tuna which are migrating past. A number of boats have found them from 15-40 miles offshore. As is most of the time, the small packs of gannets and turns hovering over the water assist in finding them. Some reported 60-80-lb class fish and others reported bigger. The most positive lures have been pink Ron-Z softaits.

Received: Dec. 13, 2015 9:27 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Based on the calendar I find it hard to believe that I am still sending out reports. The amount of bait continues to be truly amazing. The new kid on the block, or should I say bait scene, is Boston Mackerel. Ocean temp on Saturday was 53 +. The bassing was a little off with artificials. I think this is because they have been having a buffet whenever they want. With the amount of bass I marked on the fish finder one would think fishing would be a little easier than it was. Predawn had herring swirling all over the place and this continued through sun up. After struggling to land a fish of plastics and metals I had the crew made up of Derek Bonk and son Fynn from Toms River, along with Dave Werner of Manahawkin switch over to sabiki rigs to catch some live bait (herring). After loading the livewell we moved around to find some bass that were in the mood to chew, which we did. Once located, we had steady action with slot fish and one or two over 28” by swimming live herring.

Screaming drags and sleigh bells jing-a-ling, Ring ting ting-a-ting too

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

December 13, 2015 ——————————————————–

5:30 PM

Rob Swift just stopped by with a beautiful 39.5″ bass. He just caught it off of the mid-island surf on bunker. While trying to get a length and weight it was flopping all over. The fish pulled our scale to 23-lb 1-oz. Rob left in a flash saying he was heading back to the beach to see if he could get it to swim away.

December 12, 2015 ——————————————————–

4:30 PM

Thanks to Captain Brett Taylor and the crew from the Barnegat High School Fishing Club. Today was a great time! While the weather had most anglers out fishing, there was a good turnout and everyone got in on some great deals. While there I had the pleasure talking to lots of different customers, all had a similar attitude… life is great, the weather is fantastic and fishing this season was and still is epic. One angler reported catching a short bass and a monster bluefish off of the LBI surf yesterday. Lenny stopped by our tables late in the day and said this morning an angler near by caught a linesider on a chunk.

Ryan Purul gave us a report that he plugged up a couple shorts off of the mid-island surf this morning. He said that the bunker came right up on the beach for a little bit but when it was there he couldn’t pull a striper out of there.

Fluke off of the beach!?!?!? With all of the anglers fishing bucktails on the surf picking bass it was bound to happen. Today there were three reports that came in from anglers who caught fluke off of the sand. One anglers had three up to 22″. While way out of season it was a testament to how unseasonable warm it is.

~FishHead.Greg

Received: Dec. 12, 2015 11:56 AM Subject: Fishing Report for Dec 11 & 12th
Fished the north end of the Island on Dec 11th and 12th. Was there for the morning high tide. On Friday got two schoolies in the hour after high tide and on Saturday morning I got one schoolie about the same, in the hour after the top of the tide. Weather was very nice and wind was calm. Not exactly striper weather but being the end of the season I’ll take it. Looks like all that is left is small schoolies passing by.

~ Larry O, Manahawkin

December 11, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:30 PM

The local surfcasters are getting into great fishing on lures off the mid-island surf. While the crew has kept it low key for a good stretch of time, the word is out. The best times have been early morning and late afternoon into sunset. This morning’s bite was on until about 9:30am. The bass are schoolies (up to 24″ ish range) but active and on the feed. Bucktails tipped with a grub is the go to. Anglers are also catching on rubber swim baits and small plugs. The weather is beautiful so get out and enjoy it while it lasts.

Inshore tog fishing has been really good. Bill Ambrose was on the water yesterday and reported, “Ridiculous what went down today! What a day!” He was out fishing one of the local artificial wrecks with live green crabs. Robbie Vallone also fished yesterday but further north (out of Shark River) and hammered them. Robbie said, “We had another great trip. We are fishing structure inshore with white leggers. It has been very good on every trip.” Rob is heading to RI to get in on a hot sea bass and cod bite but will be back on the tog on Sunday.

Received: Dec 10, 2015 10:08 PM Subject: Our New Line of Fishing Apparel… Psyquatic

We just launched our new line of fishing shirts and sweatshirts: Psyquatic is our brand name. Our first two designs are just off the press and ready for Christmas. Choose between our Striped Bass or our Psyquatic logo designs. Available in 5 sizes, Medium to 3XL. Short sleeve, long sleeve, and sweatshirts. All quality garments and knockout graphics that are worth a look at: www.psyquatic.com They will also be on display at our table at the Barnegat High School Fishing Flea Market this Saturday, December 12 from 9AM to 1PM.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

December 10, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:00 PM

The bass bite was on again today (and yesterday). Store staffers Kevin and Steve-o reported the fishing was on fire again. The boats have been on ’em. The action at times is non stop. We are blessed with world class fishing this fall and it just keeps on going. Don’t stop the broken record, let it keep on going.

Store staffer Blake reports the Island beach front has schoolie bass up for grabs. Earlier in the week the high water at sunset was producing best on bucktails, softbaits and small plugs. There’s also been chatter of anglers picking fish at sunrise. The trend has been high water and the outgoing.

Yesterday store staffer Joni was on the water and got into some great fishing. There’s been scattered talk for about two weeks now from boats wreck fishing who have spotted tuna busting on top. The other day one anglers said they were everywhere but wouldn’t take a lure. Joni headed out with Captain Andy Worst from the Barnegat Animal Clinic and then found drop and reel bottom fishing with tog and seabass. They also found tuna on top. Finally someone stuck the hooks to them! Joni show a photo of a nice round one (60#+). He said they hooked up with a couple. Now is the time to go!!!

Received: Dec 10, 2015 7:14 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Sportfishing

First, A huge thank you to all of my 2015 Clients – we had a great year fishing and I’ve have already started prepping for next season. We will look to re-splash the JENNY LYNN towards the middle to end of March! See you in 2016!!

For our last charter of 2015, I had Jim Harris, John Austin, Rocky Visconti, and Scott Cuthrort on a 5hr Striped Bass Charter. We started casting and jigging Tsunami Swim Shads and bucktails tipped with pork to boat a few bass among the bird play. As we got into one shallow area outside the breakers – bass were everywhere. It was bass mayhem with fish busting on herring, surf anglers casting and hooking up close to the boat, and the boat’s clients hooked up. It was absolute chaos, but AWESOME!! We consistently had multiple 3 and 4 hookups per drift as the bass crashed on anything and everything. The crew ended the day with over 40 bass released, and kept 8 for the table. Awesome job, and a great way to end the season!!

All the rates will be the same for 2016, and I’m already excited for the arrival of the summer flounder. I know May is a little off, but it has the juices flowing as I have already placed most of my 2016 lure/tackle orders. I have been booked by the Recreational Fishing Alliance to present at the Atlantic City Boat Show 2016 most likely fluke seminar or striped bass, but more to come on that. Lastly, if your looking for a good Christmas present, you can easily book a trip through our website – makes a great stocking stuffer.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing 609.290.7709

11:00 AM

This Saturday, December 12th is the 7th Annual Fisherman’s Fleamarket hosted by the Barnegat High School Fishing Club. The doors open at 9:00am and will run until 1pm. Make sure to get there early if looking for the beast deals. The hot buys go first! Like every year Fisherman’s Headquarters will be there with great sales up for grabs. Stop by and reel in some holiday deals! Don’t miss out… Captain Brett Taylor (of Reel Reaction Sportfishing ), the advisor of the school’s fishing club always puts on a great show.

$4.00 Admission, Kids 12 and under FREE, All Proceeds Go Towards The BHS Fishing Club.

The school is located about two miles off of Garden State Parkway exit 67 and a miles from Route 9 in Barnegat. The address is Barnegat High School – 180 Bengal Blvd. Barnegat, NJ 08005

Received: Dec 9, 2015 5:39 PM Subject: Debbie M Is Still In

With the warm weather and hot fishing I am keeping the Debbie M in the water for now. This weekend’s weather looks great and both days are open if you want to get in on the awesome fall action that continues. Give a call and lets go fishing.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

December 9, 2015 ——————————————————–

9:30 AM

The unseasonably mild temperatures are stretched out across the forecast period. The long range has us in the mid to upper 50’s this weekend and next week, then upper 40’s the following weekend. The El Nino will have us fishing into the New Year and beyond. While the trophy class of bass have migrated past our local waters, the mass population of schoolie to mid 30″ range bass are here. There’s also blues here too. This smorgasbord of bait (bunker, herring, sardines, sandeels, among others) has these fish here and on the feed. For the most part, the boat anglers have experienced the best action (see reports below); however, some surf anglers have been getting into fish. Now that the surf Tournament is over the participation is way down and as a result very few reports will trickle in for us to share.

Yesterday one angler said he drove the entire town of Ship Bottom and only saw two rods in the water. His rod made three. The only other report we heard was from Rick W. of Ship Bottom who reported dropping two fish on the surf yesterday.

Received: Dec 8, 2015 1:08 PM Subject: Awesome Striper Fishing Continues

I had a two man charter yesterday (Mon) and the striper fishing was great. We broke the inlet around 7:30 AM, made the left, and ran as far as the Bathing Beach before we were into some good bird play and a small fleet of boats. Casting lures into frantic working birds produced no hits for almost 45 minutes. It looked fishy, it even sounded good as the birds were in full “squawk” but no bent rods, and only scant readings on the machine. I put out our two shorty trolling rods, they’re only 5’6″ and have 150 feet of wireline instead of the normal big sticks with 300 feet. I chose the smallest Maja spoon, a chartreuse #1 size and an umbrella rig for the other. The spoon hooked up immediately before I could even set the other rod out. It went like that for the next hour where whichever lure you let out first would have a fish on before you could get the other rod set. Of course we would rather be casting lures with the lighter spinning tackle but this was working.

I got a call on my cell from Brett Taylor from Reel Reaction charters. He said: “Head south back to the inlet….and hurry!” We reeled in and throttled up for Barnegat Light. As we got closer we saw stripers swirling on herring right outside the surfline. All the surfcasters were hooked up. We threw Tsunami Shads and poppers for two hours on 24 to 28 inch fish.

The water temp is still 50/51 degrees, the long range forecasted air temps are ridiculous for December. We’ve been fishing in sweatshirts to start and sometimes t-shirts by late morning. The marine weather continues to be kind with light velocity winds all the way thru the weekend. Fishing Open Boat or charter this Thurs, Fri, and Sat, Dec 10, 11, and 12. 6AM to Noon. $170 person. Three people max. All fish are shared. We have tags for each of you to keep a slot fish (24″ to 28″) if you would like. I always bring the trolling gear if we need to target some bigger fish for the cooler, too. I leave it up to you guys. I’m going blackfishing on a friend’s boat tomorrow (Wed, Dec 9)) and will probably be out of cell range from 7AM to 1PM. Leave me a message and I will get back to you as soon as we are back in cell range.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

December 8, 2015 ——————————————————–

11:30 AM

Tom Gordon sent in this photo having fun on the LBI beach with his family. He said, “Decent day on the surf. All fish went back. My girls said they were too cute to eat. LOL”

Here is a recent SandPaper article about the status of LBI’s beach replenishment. Looks like the equipment will be pulling out of town some time after the holidays to work on another project. Work will be postponed till the Spring. Last night there was a LBT Council meeting on and the replenishment project was discussed. Thanks to Eric Lindenberg for providing information from the meeting… Residents and business owners expressed disappointment and outrage but the the Mayor stated there is little anyone can do. The dredge company is not formally bound by the terms of the contract until 100% of easements are signed. 32 remain outstanding and eminent domain proceedings have taken far longer than expected due to delays in the Governor’s office. There’s not much attention to the matter because he’s too busy in Iowa and New Hampshire right now. Sounds like the project will not be completed by the May, 2016 deadline.

Another news worthy topic… the whale(s) that were feeding off of LBI and IBSP recently have slid south. The classy bass are there too. Jim Stenella recently posted this video on Facebook with a caption, “Here’s the video of the whale hitting the guys boat next to us off Sea Isle.”

Received: Dec 7, 2015 9:33 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

The amazing fall run of striped bass continues for those sailing out of Barnegat Inlet. Big bunker and big bass seemed to have been replaced with big schools of bait and big numbers of bass. Ops, almost forgot to mention bluefish. The last few days huge schools of schoolie bass have been hammering all sorts of bait; peanut bunker, Atlantic herring, and Spanish Sardines. Saturday the bass were chasing the bait north and Sunday they were chasing it south. While most of the fish have been under 28” there are still bigger fish mixed in. When the conditions are prime you can catch a few dozen bass with ever method you want. With the ocean still in the low 50s and the long range forecast showing a warming trend this action may continue for some time. Who knows, maybe even Santa will catch a bass when he makes his visit soon. Here is a link to some of the video I have shot during this run.

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

December 7, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:45 PM

On the final day of the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament, yesterday there were some fish weighed in. All four of the fish were blues caught on bunker. The biggest of which was weighed in at Surf City Bait and Tackle by one of our store staff members Joe. Joe Carmelengo caught his 10-lb 4-oz bluefish off of the Ship Bottom surf on bunker at about 8am.

Reports from the surf today were dismal. We heard from one angler who drove the beach on the search. He said it was icy cold early and mentioned that the fog didn’t help things.

Received: Dec 6, 2015 8:00 PM Subject: Phenomenal Striper Action Continues!

With the calendar page turning to our Holiday Season it certainly looks like a December to remember!! With weather resembling late October anglers aboard the Reel Fantasea continue to be treated to not only world class striper action but absolutely fantastic weather as well! Dense schools of herring , peanut bunker and sardines continue to hold an amazing amount of striped bass in our waters that are as thick as the clouds of opportunistic gulls above. The last few days have been nothing short of exceptional with schools of stripers 10-30 feet thick off the bottom with sky darkening flocks of gulls and gannets in every direction holding above! At times the vast amounts of birds are actually somewhat distracting in deciding which school to target but trusting in the sonar tells the story of what lies below with dense schools of bait and attacking bass. If the striped bass action wasn’t enough big beastly bluefish are in the mix as well to test both anglers skill and endurance. Honestly anglers endurance have been truly tested over the last 5-6 days with fish on with almost every cast for the savvy anglers.

I have this Friday [11] and Sunday[ 13] for either open or private charter. Open boat – $175.00pp. All light tackle rods reels, lures, fish cleaning included. Remember to join us and like us on Facebook and view latest up dates, photos and videos. Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

December 6, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:30 PM

Blake and I jumped on the boat early this morning and got in on some really fun fishing. Once again lots of fishing chasing bait with birds all over it. We actually had some of our best fishing (biggest size class) on small pods of herring with no birds present. Some how we stumbled upon two of them while slow maneuvering to set up. Most of the bass where schoolies but we did get some in the mid to high 30″ range. All fish were caught plugging with metal lip swimmers and rubber swim baits. The bass just couldn’t resist the slow sassy swim of a chunk of wood on top.

Today is the last day of the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. Thanks to all of the anglers who participated and Congrats to all who won a prize. This year the angler count was down but the fish count was much more than previous years. While the tournament closes our local fishery is very strong and doesn’t show signs of stopping.

~FishHead.Greg

December 5, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:00 PM
Rick Bragg of Just Braggin Salon was out on the water today with his daughter Carleigh. Rick reported a phenomenal day, “All day long bass and blues on top water lures and rubber shads on bottom. There were birds everywhere on bait; peanut bunker and sandeels. Lots of boats and everyone was catching. We were fishing the Bather’s Beach to the Pier from the beach out to 60′ of water.”

11:00 AM
Store staffer Max headed out early this morning in the boat. He reported peanut bunker everywhere! He said it was epic fishing with big blues in the mix. He’s trolling now but said the top water bite was on fire when the sun was coming up.

So far no reports off of the surf.

Received: Dec 5, 2015 9:26 AM Subject: Sunday 12/6 – Last Minute Charter Available

My client who was booked for tomorrow cancelled due a few of his charter not able to make it (family emergency), so I have Sunday morning available for charter. I do have some live spot (baitfish) left for the trip, and also have up to 4 bonus tags available. I know it’s last minute, but if interested, call me at 609-290-7709.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing 609.290.7709

Received: Dec 4, 2015 6:32 PM Subject: Crazy Crazy Striper Fishing Right Now… Room For One!

The ocean was alive with migration stripers today. 24 to 30 inch fish under birds. The finest kind of fishing, casting lures on light spinning tackle. I have two guys signed on for Saturday’s Open Boat, room for one more. Beautiful forecast: light winds, calm seas, and warm air temps.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

December 4, 2015 ——————————————————–

4:00 PM
Earlier today John Parzych weighed in a 9-lb 10-oz bluefish from the Ship Bottom surf. He caught it on bunker at about 1pm.

We got word from Captain Mark Finelli of Laura Sportfishing that the fishing was lights out this morning in the boat. He said there was bass blitzing bait for hours. He reported every boat was into ’em and the fish were a mix from schoolies to classy ones. Call 856-341-6562 if you want to get on board with Mark. Not sure what kind of availability he has.

Just a heads up the 36th Annual Ship Bottom Christmas Parade is tomorrow, Saturday December 5th at 1pm. Expect the town to be a mad house! The Long Beach Boulevard from 5th to 25th street will be closed. To travel through town you’ll have to use the back roads, Barnegat Ave and Central. This year’s theme is “Fishing You A Merry Christmas”. Should be a great one with very good weather.

Received: Dec 4, 2015 6:28 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Sportfishing

The recent Striped Bass bite has been EPIC in our area and we have mixed schools of Bass in our area. You can literally go out there and catch a 40-in fish on one cast, and a 25-inch fish on the next.. Since we need to respect this natural resource, I highly recommend only keeping what you will eat, and get a quick pic and release those fish over 40 inches as they are most likely our breeding females. I do have a few tags left for fish in the 24 to 28 inch lengths – Personally these are the best-tasting ones.

Recently, I had a charter with a telecommunications group on a 5hr Striped Bass trip, we only needed about an hour and a half. We had our 4 man limit by 9am, and released another 14 fish with our 2 biggest at 37 inches. We went solely to artificials and still had some fish on the jig and slow retrieve. Nice job by the crew, and way to fight those rough ocean conditions.

I do have a few trips available before we pull the “JENNY LYNN” for the season. All fish-cleaning, ice, live-bait, etc is provided (no extra fees), and we always use trolling as a last resort tactic. If interested, please either book through the website or call my cell 609-290-7709.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing 609.290.7709

December 3, 2015 ——————————————————–

Received: Dec 3, 2015 4:18 PM Subject: More Mild Weather & Stripers

We fished Thanksgiving Day through Sunday and caught bass every day. We made the right turn each day and found life from Harvey Cedars to Ship Bottom. Readings, bunker, and bass! Trolling bunker spoons and Mojo’s were top producers. Most days we are still snagging bunker and connecting. Whether trolling or fishing bait we are still into 15 to 25 pound fish and Thursday morning we even had a solid 30 plus pound fish on a green Maja spoon. This was one of three nice fish that made it in the boat for these three guys that sailed with me on a “make good” trip from the week before. I wrote about them in my last report. After a photo, Bill released the fish. We had good striper fishing Thurs, Fri, Sat, and Sunday. Anywhere from 15 feet of water out to 45 feet. The water temp was hanging in at 51 degrees.

They’re still catching fish from Long Island and New England. This is going to keep going. I’m planning on Christmas stripers at least. The first of our migration size fish, 8 to 12 pound fish, are just starting to show up in numbers now to the north of us. These will be our casting and jigging fish on the light tackle. These front running 15 to 30 pound fish are a bonus and they don’t seem to be leaving anytime soon. This is the third Fall in a row we have had this bunker and big fish run. Let’s hope it’s a trend.

The hard west wind is starting to kick in hard tonight and tomorrow (Thurs). Friday, Dec. 4, is a light NW wind and air temps in the 30 to 50 degree range. Looks like a great day to run an Open Boat. 7AM to 1PM. $170 person. 3 people max. All fish are shared. Sat., Dec. 5 is calling for a 10 to 15 knot north wind but keep an eye on it. That velocity is not bad, I think it’s going to be fishable. If it looks good, we’ll sail Sat Open Boat, too.

Sunday, Dec 6, I am hosting a Fishing Flea Market at Park Ave. Elementary School, 280 Park Ave, Freehold, NJ 07728 from 9AM to 2PM. hiflier.com for more info.

Monday, Dec. 7, I have a gentleman who chartered the boat for himself but is open to sharing the boat with one other angler if anyone wants to split the $500 charter rate with him.

Beyond that we are sailing every day the weather allows. 7 days a week.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

2:15 PM
Jack Morgan of West Creek stopped in the shop this morning to pick up from fresh bunker. While here he shared a report. He fished the surf last night until 9pm. He caught one keeper and two shorts on bunker.

We got word from our bunker man there were gannets crashing bait in close to the beach. He said there lots of bait (adult bunker, peanut bunker, sandeels, herring and butterfish) in the area and large schools of striped bass and blues. He mentioned the adult bunker are some of the biggest he’s seen. One we got weighed in a 1.65-lbs, here is a photo.

Bottom fishing is good… Nick Alfonse reported unreal drop and reel fishing all afternoon yesterday tog fishing. He was out in the fog catch and releasing well over the limit.

December 2, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM
Fresh bunker just arrived!

1:00 PM
Finally that area of low pressure tracked out of here. The last couple of days the rough ocean, stiff wind and rain kept most anglers off the water. There were very few reports yesterday. The few that came in talked about difficult conditions, “8-10 oz of lead, weed in the water, both grass and cabbage.” Some anglers went out and were rewarded. Yesterday there were three striped bass weighed in for the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. The largest was Brendan Craig’s 38.25″ 23-lb 1-oz linesider caught in Surf City on bunker.

As of now, no reports today. It has been a nice light wind, foggy morning. There’s a fading easterly windswell rolling in the surf from the blow. We are expecting cloudy conditions with a light south breeze today. A front pulls across us tonight. The westerlies will clear thing out and high pressure builds for a great weekend. Looking out at the long range our fishing season looks great. Besides one model trending towards a storm mid to late next week (still lots of uncertainty), the temperatures while not warm are above average and look to stay that way into mid December. We’ll have to send a holiday card to Mr. El Nino.

December 1, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:30 AM

Captain Steve Purul said it best in his report yesterday… What a November to Remember! The surf and boat fishing has been great. While it is now December there’s quality fish here and with all of the bait present they will stick around.

Today it’s blowing and yesterday it was blowing. It has kept most boats at the dock. Even the commercial guys are land locked. These are the days that hardcore surf fisherman live for. Good water, full of bait and bass!!! Todd Luber go into ’em as well as a number of other anglers yesterday. Ten fish were checked in the the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament and we know of many other anglers who caught.

Todd reported not a bite fishing the morning’s incoming tide. He was heading off the Island and decided to turn around and put some more time in. Todd said it turned on as the tide dropped. He caught four bass up to 37″ chunking bunker off the surf. Todd’s friend Matt caught a good one, high 20 possibly 30 pound bass.

November 30, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:00 PM

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine… Will Post December 1, 2015 – Lou at Fisherman’s Headquarters took a break from fine tuning a few Van Staals to tell of decent striper action in the mid-island surf, and a 30 pounder was brought in that was caught in Surf City. Needlefish, metal lipped swimmers and the bunker pattern Bomber Longshot are all putting bass on the beach. Bunker chunks and clams are also accounting for a scattering of schoolies and a keeper or two. Out front, the 24-ounce white Mojo with a white shad attached is putting linesiders in the 20 to 30-pound range in the boxes. Here’s a link to the report on The Fisherman’s Page

Received: Nov 30, 2015 8:31 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Move Over 2011! What A November To Remember!

Hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving with friends and family. Wow!! 2011 was just one of those “once in a lifetime” epic striper years but November 2015 will go down as one that could hold it’s own against that epic year.

As of Sunday 11/29/15 we are still snagging and dropping live bunker [unheard of this late] as well as presenting a variety of artificial lures on light tackle!! The really exciting and encouraging part of the whole scenario is not only the consistent world class action but the wide range of sizes of striped bass. Bass from 22″ [3-5lbs] to over the 45″ [36-45lbs] have been caught on a single trip. For those who are not familiar, a healthy stock is thought to have plenty of both large and small fish. And that is exactly what has been going on through the month of November!!

A November to remember is already in the books for 2015, a December to remember and possibly beyond looks likely with the vast amounts of bait and continued mild temperatures. Remember to visit us on Face book for [and like us] latest photos, reports and videos.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: Nov 30, 2015 7:35 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

The fall bass run remains strong and shows no sign of dying off. Ocean is still around 54 degrees and some days the schools of adult bunker go on for miles. In addition, peanut bunker have made a good showing and the smaller bass are keyed into them. Saturday’s trip with the Ryan Miller group was great with bunker along the northern end of LBI to as far south as Surf City (that is as far as I went). You had to find the right school of bunker to get into the bass. With the water stained due to a large swell the bass bite was a little off. The group did land two nice big fish out of six runoffs. Sunday the weather was less than favorable unless you were a bass. Rough seas, cold north winds and rain was all it took to turn the bass on. My charter from CT braved the conditions and were rewarded for it. I never went further than around the inlet as it was an all-out blitz. For about three hours mostly smaller fish, 24”-30”, hammered bunker both small and large. At times they pushed them against the outside of the north jetty causing the fleeing baitfish over the top of the submerged rocks and into the air trying to escape. In all of that bedlam a whale decided to show its face, literally, just outside the inlet feeding on the bunker. Plastics were the hot item which worked great.

With the extended forecast looking great and the run still strong I am keeping the Debbie M in for another week. Therefore, I am available if you want to book a trip this upcoming weekend.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

1:30 PM

Craig Perucki of Barnegat just weighed in a 29-lb 2-oz bass. He caught it off of the North Beach surf on bunker. Craig reported going to a nice spot that he has been fishing in Surf City. When he took a look he found another angler already there. He decided to head up a ways and check out another spot and he got one. Craig said he need to fish 10oz of lead today.

10:30 AM

I finally got in there Saturday and chose the Penn Clash 5000 reel to match up with the G.Loomis IMX Surf Rod. What a nice combination. A world of difference from the 11′ Ugly Stick and Penn Power Graph reel I bought from you over 15 years ago! I caught a 32″ bass on the first cast with the rig Sunday morning. In accordance with the pact I made with the fish gods that I would release the first keeper….. it was released. ~ Bill King

Our bunker guys struck out yesterday. They put some time in but couldn’t find the adult bunker. They reported, “After heading in from fishing offshore we went on the search late in the day for bunker. Patch after patch of peanut bunker but no big ones.” They are not fishing today so our next delivery might be tomorrow or Wednesday. Either way it will be later in the day. Sorry for the inconvenience. We expect salted clam and live shell clam later today. Live eels are sold out and it is unknown if we will receive another delivery this year.

November 29, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:30 PM

We just had a pair of bass hit the scale from two different anglers (not fishing together). Both fish were caught in Harvey Cedars on bunker at about 11am. John Bonner checked in a 32″ 12-lb 8-oz and Brain Schmidt had a 34.5″ 16-lb 13-oz bass.

12:00 PM

About an hour ago Rich Astor weighed in a 21-lb 8-oz bass that he caught off of the Ship Bottom surf on bunker this morning.

Here’s a photo of seven year old Russell Clark’s weigh in from yesterday. See report below.

Douglas Prugh of Hillsborough, NJ weighed in a 11-lb 8-oz tog yesterday for the Fisherman Magazine Dream Boat Challenge. Doug was fishing a wreck aboard the Mary M. out of Barnegat Light. Word on the street is sea bass and tog fishing are very good right now. Also positive reports of porgies in the catches too.

10:45 AM

John Parzych just weighed in a 34.5″ 14-lb 10-oz bass. He caught it off of the Ship Bottom surf on bunker at about 7am.

Jeff Davis of Let It Fly Charters stopped in the shop this morning. He reports,” Great fishing off of LBI right now! Wednesday and Friday were very good. Yesterday was remarkable! Tons of bunker and bass. A whale was feeding heavily and made for a spectacular time. We are catching both livelining and trolling. I’ll be fishing out of Barnegat Light (Lighthouse Marina) as long as the fish stay.” Give a call if you want to book a day, 609-377-1299

Yesterday Ed Valitutto fished the LBI surf with his grandson Nick Rossi. They caught two bass on bunker; one 30 incher and one 40 incher 22-lb 6-oz.

LBI Surf Fishing Tournament Special Prizes Week 8

11/29 – $50 to Calabrias
11/30 – Headlamp
12/01 – $25 to Barrys
12/02 – Headlamp
12/03 – $25 to Barrys
12/04 – Headlamp
12/05 – Rod from Folsom Corporation
12/06 – $25 to Calabrias

November 28, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM

Thanksgiving Day Weekend is always great striper fishing on LBI. Given the unseasonably warm weather and lots of anglers fishing, the reports have been plentiful. The fishing is good. Both the beach and boat anglers have got into ’em. This morning the boats were in tight to the beach off of Ship Bottom, Surf City and Harvey Cedars. They stayed that way for most of the day. All the reports we have heard from the boats have been positive. The class of fish are shrinking (most in the 30″ range) but there are still some quality linesiders here. The bunker pods were active and also trolling bunker spoons and Mojo Rigs has been productive.

Jeff Sussman stopped in the shop today and reported getting out on the water in the boat the last couple of days. Today he fished south of BI and caught 10 bass livelinging and trolling. He said yesterday, “I was setting out an umbrella rig and it got hammered. I thought I hooked a giant!. Turns out it was a pair feisty bass.”

The LBI Surf Fishing Tournament Live Results page is stacked with weigh-ins today. The largest, a 30-lb 2-oz bass was caught by Roman Onyszczuk on bunker in Brant Beach. A good size bluefish (12-lb 1-oz) was also checked in by Brian Dalton.

Here are some reports from today. We had a number of weigh-ins.

Seven year old Russell Clark of Warminster weighed in a 18-lb 13-oz striper this evening. He caught it off of the Surf City beach on bunker at about 3:45PM.

William Clark of Little Egg weighed in a 14-lb 1-oz striper that he caught off of the Ship Bottom surf on bunker at 9am.

Dave Hiller weighed in a 20-lb 11-oz caught off of Loveladies on bunker at 10am.

Bob McFetridge of Shamong weighed in a 13-lb 10-oz striper that he caught off off the mid-island surf on bunker.

If looking to get in on the action now is the time! Sunday and Monday the forecast are calling for northeast winds so things could get really good. We’ll have to wait and see!

Here’s a video FishHead,Greg shot and put together from an epic day earlier this month… youtu.be/DMR0Ue1DiW8

8:30 AM

Yesterday morning store staffer Blake put couple hours in on the surf. He caught three bass plugging: one on a bucktail and two on a Bomber. Blake mentioned that he saw 4 other fish caught by other anglers fishing close by. He said they were chunking.

Just a heads up there’s some swell in the water. The east south east swell will demand some extra lead.

On the bait front… We received a big load of fresh bunker last night but it went super fast. We just ran out a little bit ago. Only fresh frozen until our next delivery comes later today. We expect to have more by able 4-5pm. We’ll let you know if it happens to show sooner. Live clams are sold out and we don’t expect more today.

November 27, 2015 ——————————————————–

In-Store Holiday Sale
10% Off All Fishing Reels – Select Models Up to 50% Off

– 20% Off Select Avet Reels

– 30% Off Select Penn Reels

– 30% Off All Long Cast Reels

– 50% Off Quantum Boca & Cabo Reels
10% Off All Fishing Rods – Surf, Inshore, Offshore
15% Off All Sunglasses, Select Models 50% Off
15% Off All Joe Shute Trolling Lures
20% Off All Spro Bucktails
25% Off All T-Shirts
30% Off All Gulp

1:30 PM

Crazy day today! Sorry for the late post. Hopefully everyone had a Great Thanksgiving relaxing and giving thanks! We have a lot to be thankful for. The great striper fishing and weather are just a bonus.

Rich Beverley caught and weighed in this 30 pounder. He got it off of the beach in Surf City this morning on bunker.

Store staffer Steve-o said the shop was rocking all morning. He said that he released an 33″ bass last night chunking off of the surf. Steve-o also shared the following inlet which came in from customers today. One guy reported seeing a quality bass (20-30lbs) get caught off of the Ship Bottom surf. This might have been Rich’s weigh-in. Could have been another fish. Bobby Capri stopped in and reported adult bunker and peanut bunker off of Surf City. He was in his kayak, in the mix of boats out there snagging and livelining.

We saw on the social media feed lots of anglers trolling up bass today in the boat. Trends looks the same, Bunker Spoons and Mojo Rigs. Details on that report later when we learn more.

Yesterday around noon time there was a 12-lb bass weighed in by an angler and some friend. They didn’t provide names or much details other than they were fishing bunker off the south end surf. Another report yesterday came from Jack Potosnak of Palmyra NJ. He reported catching a a nice 30″ striper the day before (Wednesday) at 5:30pm on bunker. Jack said he was fishing Surf City.

November 26, 2015 ——————————————————–

In-Store Holiday Sale
10% Off All Fishing Reels – Select Models Up to 50% Off

– 20% Off Select Avet Reels

– 30% Off Select Penn Reels

– 30% Off All Long Cast Reels

– 50% Off Quantum Boca & Cabo Reels
10% Off All Fishing Rods – Surf, Inshore, Offshore
15% Off All Sunglasses, Select Models 50% Off
15% Off All Joe Shute Trolling Lures
20% Off All Spro Bucktails
25% Off All T-Shirts
30% Off All Gulp

Stop in the shop as soon as possible to get in while the get’ins good!

10:00 AM – Our Thanksgiving Day Hours are 6am to 2pm. We will be opening at normal time but closing early.

Still a good body of fish here and we expect it to stay that way. The anglers chunking bunker doing very well at night and anglers fishing plugs are catching. The size class of fish scaled down but there are many more making it fun fishing.

Browsing the social media feed this morning we found a photo post from John Parzych of a bass he just caught from the LBI sand with a caption “Striped Turkey!”

Here is a video by Dan D that recaps his day on the water yesterday. The boat fishing the past couple of weeks has been phenomenal and it keeps going strong.

Received: Nov 25, 2015 9:01 PM Subject: Reel Reaction Sportfishing

It’s been a busy couple of weeks between family, school, and charter commitments. The Striped Bass fishing in our area remains steady with both incoming and outgoing tides producing fish . There has been a semi-consistent snag-n-drop bite from Seaside to Brant Beach – you just have to find them.

First, I had return client Tim Murphy, his son Kevin, and family friend Don Jakeman and his daughter Juliann on a Striped Bass charter. We started working an area south of the inlet that had some decent marks. Juliann’s turn up on the troll and a nice 35in fish came tight. As we trolled for some time with no hits, we decided to head north and got into some pods of bunker on light-tackle action. There were some feeding fish, and we had two solid run-offs in which one broke the line and the other came unbuttoned. The foursome worked hard on the drift, but only had a few dogs and a nice 6-lb fluke (released) on live bait. Tough day on the water.

Next up was return client Guy Critelli of Cherry Hill, his son Joseph, and Richard Barndt out on Striped Bass Charter. We started in an area that seemed productive and had great “marks”, but after jigging, live bait, and trolling – we had no takers. We worked our way South and found a pile of fish with multiple 3 man hookups. The trio kept 5 for the table, and released another 9. Nice job by the group.

And just before Thanksgiving I had Eric Hansen of Doylestown, PA and his son Brien on a afternoon Striped Bass charter. Brien is on Thanksgiving break from the University of Pitt, so it was a nice way for father and son to start the break. We started working the inlet area and had a few fish quickly up to 25 inches. The bite subsided, so after a few “choice” phone calls we moved south and got on the bunker and fish. We had one run-off, and then Eric hooked up and boated a solid 35″ fish. We played around with the schools, but no fish were had. The father and son team ended with 3 fish up to 35″. We saw some neat marine mammals right off the beach – most likely Northern Right or Humpback whale. I didn’t get a pic, but also saw a seal at the North jetty (Barnegat Inlet).

Last, not related to my business : I can’t believe this is my 8th year as advisor to the Barnegat High School Fishing Club and we were out on the Carolyn Ann III for Blackfish or Striped Bass, it ended being Striped Bass due to the heavy NW winds. Twenty-four high school students, a few teachers, and parents were out to brave the cold, blustery day. The boat fished some areas “north”, and got into a few fish. Striped Bass to 36 inches, and bluefish were caught. The crew of the Carolyn Ann III did a great job in tough conditions, and played with some schoolie Striped Bass near the inlet to end the trip. Thanks again to the crew of the Carolyn Ann III, and the teachers and parent/guardians involved. The kids have a blast every year and we want it to continue. The BHS Fishing Club is running it’s 7th Annual Fisherman’s Fleamarket on Saturday, December 12th at Barnegat High School – all proceeds go towards the fishing club.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing 609.290.7709

November 25, 2015 ——————————————————–

In-Store Holiday Sale
10% Off All Fishing Reels – Select Models Up to 50% Off

– 20% Off Select Avet Reels

– 30% Off Select Penn Reels

– 30% Off All Long Cast Reels

– 50% Off Quantum Boca & Cabo Reels
10% Off All Fishing Rods – Surf, Inshore, Offshore
15% Off All Sunglasses, Select Models 50% Off
15% Off All Joe Shute Trolling Lures
20% Off All Spro Bucktails
25% Off All T-Shirts
30% Off All Gulp

Stop in the shop as soon as possible to get in while the get’ins good!

6:30 PM – Our Thanksgiving Day Hours are 6am to 2pm. We will be opening at normal time but closing early.

Holiday Sale At Fisherman’s Headquarters – Stop in the shop and check out an epic sale on fishing reels from top name brands! 10% All in stock reels…20-50% OFF Select reel. There’s a large selection of deeply discounted reels here. For more details come into the store. More sale details will be posted in the future.

We got a nice delivery of premium fresh bunker this evening.

Store staffer Blake reported having some fun this morning fishing plugs off of the surf on the south end of the Island. He said there’s lots of fish here and they were chewing the Bomber Long Shot. John P was also in on the fun with Blake. Another customer in the shop reported catching 6+ bass last night chunking off of the surf. He didn’t share where but he said it was a consistent bite on chunks.

The boats roped ’em again today!

10:30 AM

Store staffer Steve-o got into the bass last night. He got three nice size fish. Steve reported chunking bunker off of the Surf City beach.

This morning there’s a great bass bite from Harvey Cedars to Ship Bottom. Store staffer Joni reported snag and drop, close to the beach, right outside the bar. Dan DiPasquale is also out on the water fishing the same general area. He sent in a photo of a 45″ bass that he caught at about 7:30 am on the snag and drop off of Harvey Cedars. He also reported a good bite later morning in shallow in Ship Bottom. Ryan Dellane is also out in the area and reported quality fish. He released a couple big girls!

While both of these are boat reports this is great new to surf anglers. Quality bass on bunker in tight to the beach. What more could you ask for?

Here is a couple reports from the boat yesterday. The general consensus what it was a phenomenal day fishing LBI mid-island to the south-end.

Ryan Schramm reported, “Banged ’em up good this monring (yesterday) and then round two in the afternoon. It was silly fishing!” John Guardabasso reported, “four double headers on white Mojo rigs. Stupid fishing… to be honest you could have pulled a kitchen faucet and caught them.” Gene Carrell sent in a report… “It was an epic day of fishing with 12 bass in about an hour just north of the LE Bell Buoy. At least 6 fish over 35 inches. I was fishing all alone. Kept one for the table today.”

Store staffer Laura Gilbert was out fishing with her husband George yesterday. They fished out of the south end and reported catching good. “Caught about 10 fish on BlueWater Candy yellow Rock Fish StriperBrella’s and yellow Stretch 30’s. Fish were smaller then what have been around, 5-15#. Lot of bunker in 30′ of water and sandeels in 60′ of water.

SANDEELS!!!! This is the second time we heard sandeels in the past 24 hours. Last night a customer stopped in the shop and said he kept a 31” bass that he caught off the Ship Bottom surf yesterday at sunset. When filleting he found a belly full of sandeels. This is great news! With that there are still lots of peanut bunker and adult bunker.

November 24, 2015 ——————————————————–

3:00 PM

Dominick Savasta of the Barnegat Light Heavers weighed in a 15-lb 8-oz bass this afternoon. He caught it off of the North Beach surf this morning on bunker.

Store staffer Blake reported catching bass plugging. “A couple fish last night and a couple this morning. The new Daiwa SP minnow and the school bus Bomber are the ticket. Nothing big but there are a bunch of schoolies here on the chew.”

The Pizza Man Todd from Panzone’s Pizza reported catching bass up to 43″ today in the boat off of the south end of LBI. We also go word that there were big pods of bunker with bass on them down that was this morning.

Received: Nov 24, 2015 10:14 AM Subject: Stripers for Thanksgiving!

That’s not to say that I caught them, but if I’m there when it’s happening I feel it’s OK to report on it. I had some regulars on Saturday’s trip and we pulled a complete zero for our morning of fishing. The wind was cranking out of the NNE, the inlet and the ocean was really rough, too rough for my boat. I wasn’t too concerned as the inside game had been good every day. Yeah, not this day. I took these guys to every spot I have ever caught a striper in the bay…twice! Some spots, three times. Using live spots. Hitless, I offered them 50 percent off their next trip. BTW, that inside bite is back on now. Saturday was a little heavy on the boat traffic running out the inlet and turning right around to come back inside. The water clarity was bad, too.

Sunday was a little better but I felt more like an observation vessel than a fishing boat. In the end we put one decent fish in the cooler, like 10 or 12 pounds, released three slot size fish, we could have kept them with my tags, but the group opted to release them. All three were all at once on one of my homemade umbrella rigs. Released a gator bluefish, dropped two fish on the bunker spoons and that was that. Two of my friends fishing the same exact spot were blasting away casting lures on the drift and the other was connecting on the troll every pass with decent size cooler fish. All the action was off of Seaside.

So, even though we weren’t at our best, the fishing was good. The migration run is in full swing. More readings than bird play but 7 to 12 pound fish on light tackle. Bunker pods are still around. They didn’t have the kind of fish pressure they had last week but it usually doesn’t take the new herd of fish long to find those pods. Great readings of big bait balls. Some of it’s bunker, some are squid, and also sandeels.

Here’s how the next five days are laying out: GO STRIPER FISHING! Every day for the next five days the wind is forecasted as 5 to 10 knots from every direction on the dial. That makes for a calm ocean during the height of the migration. The air temps are in the high 40’s to low 60’s! At this time of year, you don’t wait to hear how good it was. You get a weather window like this in late November you grab it with both hands.

We will be sailing, two trips a day, every day for the next five days: Wed Nov. 25, Thurs Nov 26, Fri Nov 27, Sat, Nov 28, and Sun Nov 29. Open Boat or charter. Leaving at 5:30 AM returning at 11:30 AM, and then again Noon to 5 PM (except Thanksgiving, no afternoon trip). Also, in regard to our Thanksgiving morning trip, we will be back by 11:30 AM sharp to get everyone back in time to get to where they need to be. Including me! On the other days, if I don’t have the afternoon booked, I usually stay a little longer. $500 for the 6 hour charter or $170 person for the Open Boat reservations. $450 for the 5 hour afternoon charter or $150 person for the Open Boat reservations. Three people max on the Open Boats, all fish are shared.

Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving!
~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

10:00 AM

Brian Schmidt weighed in a 40.75″ 23-lb bass this morning. He caught it at about 10pm last night on bunker fishing the Harvey Cedars surf.

Look at this recent catch from the LBI surf. Rob Swift sent in the photo and said, “The guy next to me caught this on a bunker chunk at about 12 noon yesterday. Look at the deformed spine. I can’t keep away from the freaks!” Rob caught a pughead striped bass on November 9th. See report below for more details.

Received: Nov 23, 2015 10:16 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

I have been on the water the last three days. Saturday and Sunday were charters and Monday was with Barnegat High School’s Fishing Club aboard the Carolyn Ann III. Saturday’s trip with the Ernie Dellheim party was a tough one. After 6 hours of fishing the trip was ending with a big skunk. Unless you count the clear-nosed skate that we released J I did almost everything possible from the back bay to the inlet to the end of IBSP to get a bass on the line. Then when I was ready to call it I saw a few gannets hit the water south of the inlet. With a momentary lapse of reason, I decided to not go in the inlet to go home, but went but went out of the inlet to fish some more. Because we have been fishing all day and not catching, why not continue the pain for a little longer. Makes sense, doesn’t it? Arriving to the location of the gannets my fish finder lit up with bass and then bunker. A quick snag an drop resulted in a swing and a miss. After that it was 3 for 3 with bass from 18 – 24 pounds.

Sunday morning’s trip we headed right back out to where nothing going o we left the fish biting only to find nothing going on. We worked hard and ended with one short bass and one going 40” or more. Today the wind and the chill were relentless. There were about 20 students on board the Carolyn Ann III to brave the elements. It was tough conditions and the Captain worked hard searching for bass. We found and snagged some bunker but it was not easy. Dereck Bonk from BHS had the hot hand landing a keeper and a big blue. He also had one bass that was net shy and never made it over the rails. We managed a few schoolies at the trips end. There was one other nice keeper bass caught. I will let you figure out who caught that one 😉

I am starting to wind my season down but it isn’t over. There is still a good body of bass off our beaches, a good showing of bass in the bay, an amazing amount of peanut bunker in front of the inlet, big bunker and now some reports of sand eels. I have Wednesday afternoon, Friday, and Sunday open and there looks like we will have a warming trend.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

November 23, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:00 PM

Today the Barnegat Bay Buoy at the BL Coast Guard Station dipped way down! It was reading 51 degree this morning and then plumped to below 48 degree mark. It has been there for most of the day. Seems like we are getting back to normal temps for Jersey in mid-late November. The unseasonably warm weather was great while it lasted. Hopefully it will come back to visit SOON.

We got some live surf clams late in the day today. We expect salted pints tomorrow late morning or afternoon. Just a heads up from our bunker guy, “This morning there were piles of bunker thick from Loveladies to Harvey Cedars. Bass were on them in the morning!”

Captain Jeff Warford of the No Limit out of Barnegat Light was on the water today. Jeff reported, “I headed up the beach in the morning and found bunker on top with bass on them. It was a good snag and drop bite early that turned into a steady troll bite on Mojo and spoons. A smaller class of fish moved in. We caught 11 fish up to 38 inches. It feels more seasonal now too. Even in the downeast boat it was a chilly day. The water dropped to 53-54 degrees.” Jeff mentioned, “I’m done charter fishing out of Barnegat Light this season. Thanks to everyone who came out and got in on the great fishing we had. I’m preparing the boat to make the trek south to North Carolina for big tuna.”

1:00 PM

About an hour ago Lynn Shallcross weighed in a 41″ 28-lb 9-oz. He caught the bass at about 11:30 and raced straight to the shop. He checked it in and then went straight to the bay. His attempted revive and released was unfortunately not successful. It is going to make a great addition to his Thanksgiving Day feast! Speaking of Thanksgiving…

Our Thanksgiving Day Hours are 6am to 2pm. We will be opening at normal time but closing early.

November 22, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM

Captain Ken Nutt of the sportfishing boat the Striper out of Barnegat Light reported good fishing today. He said they had the bass on bunker north of BI in 45′ of water.

Most reports from the surf today were hit or miss. Couple anglers reported doggies and skates and others reports the skunk. Some angler got lucky and caught. The trend was Harvey Cedars to Surf City. One things is for sure everyone fishing this evening scored a beautiful rainbow on the beach combo’d with an epic sunset to close out the day.

There were seven bass entered into the derby today. Two of which were weighed in about an hour before we closed up. Rich Astor checked in 41.75″ 25-lb 7-oz striper that he caught at about 4:45pm in Harvey Cedars. He said the bite came while the sky was turning all sorts of colors.

Also fishing the surf nearby Ryan Fredrickson landed a 14-lb 5-oz bass off on bunker. Ryan got his at about 4pm.

4:00 PM

Ryan Marconi of Medford weighed in a 10-lb bass today. He caught the linesider off of the mid-island surf on bunker. Ryan said he was holding with five ounces of lead.

Brian Rybaltowski weighed in a 20-lb bass he caught off of the mid-island surf on bunker. Brian mentioned catching and releasing other smaller bass chunking.

Dan D. reported whacking the bass in the boat off of LBI today. He fished off the north-end and mid-island. He said, “The majority of the fish were on Mojo rigs. The snag and drop bite was also good. Some people picked away at fish up north but the bass were all schooled up off LBI. The only other boat fishing the area was Captain Jeff on the No Limit. He did great too.”

12:00 PM

Today there were two fish checked into the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. Andrew DiMatteo’s 17-lb 10-oz bass was the largest. Yesterday there were six, lead by a 17-lb 9-oz bass from James Johnston Jr. All were caught bunker chunking the surf from Loveladies through Ship Bottom.

Today we heard from some boat anglers that there were fish off of the south end’s Red Tower and Harvey Cedars. We also got reports from IBSP and off of Seaside. All of the areas had bass on the troll as well as livelining.

November 21, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:00 PM

Dylan Fisher of New Town stopped in minutes ago with a 12-lb 7-oz bass. He reported a number of schoolie sized bass this evening of the mid-island surf on bunker chunks.

Matthew O’Neill weighed in a 40.5″ 27-lb 4-oz bass that he caught off of the north end surf on bunker this evening. Matt mentioned that he put in a number of hours today. He only had one bite, but it was a good one. He said that it was a great fight and the bass was tired once on the beach. He tried his best to revive it so it could fight another day but it wouldn’t go.

6:00 PM

Captain Jeff of the No Limit (BlueRunner Sportfishing) stopped in the shop to buy some gear. While here he said, “We murdered the fish today! The conditions were sporty but the bass are here. This morning it was six footers stacked up tight. Because of the conditions, there were only a handful of boats, most of them were fellow down east boats that can fish comfortably in slop. We were rocking and rolling but the crew stuck with it putting fish on the deck. We found the fish quick and stayed on them. The fishing was great both on the troll and snag and drop. We caught our fish both ways about 50/50. Ten bass each way. On the troll, the Mojo rigs were out producing absolutely smoking the bass! We also came across piles of bunker and bass on top. When the opportunity came we put a hurt on them livelining! We had our five man limit of unders and overs up to 38-lbs.”

Just a heads up Jeff is sailing tomorrow and only has two guys booked for the day. If anyone is looking to get in on the fun give him a call ASAP 609-377-9136 $150 per person tip included.

John P stopped in the shop this evening and sharred more details on his day. He said, “For me it was dead just about all day. I fished up on the north end surf. Nothing but weed. Headed down to mid-island and ask soon as I put my first bait in the water, BAM! Other guys around were catching too. The bite seemed to be from 1-2pm. I only had one hit,one fish. My friend caught two shorts fishing bunker in the same area.

3:00 PM

A good bite popped up at 1pm off of the mid-island surf. The Ship Bottom and Surf City surf had fish on the chew. We just had a number of weigh-ins, three for the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. One of the bass was a 34″ 17-lb 9-oz bass. Talk about a pot-bellied pig. This one was stuffed like a thanksgiving day turkey. Full of bait!

James Johnston weighed in a 17-lb 9-oz 34″ (20″ girth) bass that he caught off of the Surf City surf on bunker at 1:15pm.

John Parzych weighed in a 16-lb 0-oz 36.5″ bass that he caught off of the Ship Bottom surf on bunker at 1pm.

Matt Gogojewicz weighed in a 11-lb 4-oz 33.25” bass that he caught off of the Surf City surf on bunker at 1:55pm. While here Matt said there are lots of schoolies fish in the surf, “Other anglers were catching too.”

1:00 PM

Dave Wark stopped into the shop and reported lots of grass on the beach in Barnegat Light. He battled the weed up there and then made a moved south. He put come time in off of the mid-island surf and got one bite on bunker. It was a 32″ 12-lb 8-oz bass.

10:00 AM

So far this morning, no weigh in today. We spoke to a few anglers who put in time yesterday all with the same theme; zilch, notta, skunk.

This morning one report came in from Joe T. of Marlton. He fish the surf for two hours this morning and didn’t see or have have a touch. He said it was quiet. He switched over to a 4/0 hi lo rig and baited up with salted clam. He caught 5 ling in a short time.

Another report came in from a father and son team. Last night they geared up at the shop and wanted to get out on the boat. This morning they reported it was a little too rough so they opted to fish the beach. We got a call from them reporting one small bass on the mid-island surf.
LBI Surf Fishing Tournament Special Prizes Week 7
11/22 2 lures plus a hat to some one that catches a fish today
11/23 A headlamp donated by Princeton Tec.
11/24 A surf rod donated by Folsom Corp.
11/25 A $25 gift certificate to Barrys Do Me A Flavor in Beach Haven.
11/26 A $100 gift card to Surf City Bait and Tackle will go to the bass
closest to 30 pounds today in Memory of Bruce Hoagland. This prize
has been donated by his family.
11/27 A headlamp.
11/28 A star rod and reel combo donated by a friend of the tournament.

November 20, 2015 ——————————————————–

5:00 PM

The bunker just arrived!

It has been a slow day today. No weigh-ins nor reports. The LBI Surf Tournament’s Live Weigh-In Log is blank for the day. I was never was a big fan fishing the day after a blow. Sure it can be good but over the year I’ve always opted to surf the first day of a northwest. Lots of things happen when a front approaches that turn fish on and lots of things happen when a front clears out that turn fish off. For example, the dropping pressure turns fish on. The onshore winds whip up (wind) waves and they create white water. The wind also blows in clean ocean water (can sometime be weedy) with little to no sediment. Long story short it puts fish on the beach at surfcaster’s feet. On the other hand the day after a blow, the ocean water is churned up from the swell created by the persistent winds. This water left over is full of sediment, tinted with a dirty brown color. While not always bad I would much rather fish clean water. Other issues also come into play… the pressure increases once a front clears (high pressure fills in), the water temperature and salinity often shift drastically. This is due to the shift in winds as well as the precipitation associated with the recent storm. Currently the surf temperature is 54 degree a couple degrees down from where it was at a few days ago. The bay temperature by the Inlet is 52 degrees on the outgoing tide.

Sometimes the best thing is a little bit of time for things to settle down. Once the westerlies can get a chance to knock down the swell things get back to normal. With that said we are looking at what I feel will be a good weekend of fishing. Saturday and Sunday both look nice. Look for small leftover windswell with a new north east wind shifting east south east in the afternoon. Sunday there will still be a small easing windswell and the winds go back westerly. On Sunday, there’s a possibility of an occasional shower in the afternoon but a 60% chance it will not happen. We’ll have to wait and see what happens. If you have the time get out and go fish. We are in the meat of our fall run. Before you know it there will be snow on the ground. Get out and have some fun while they are here!

Received: Nov 20, 2015 4:05 PM Subject: Reel Reaction Charters

I know this is very short notice, but I had a last minute cancelation for tomorrow morning. I plan on running from 9am to 2pm – 5hr Striped Bass – which will include 12-15 live spot for the charter. If interested, please call my cell: 609-290-7709.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing 609.290.7709

11:00 AM

Fall Fun LBI Style – The bite is on in LBI, pick your poison, boat, beach or the rocks. I spent the last 5 days on the island. The boat fishing was silly 20 to 40# bass crashing bunker and blasting big metal lips. Surf fishing is my passion and as always it was challenging but the bass are definitely on the island and hungry! I had a bunch of great sessions having best luck on the dropping tides with bass to 20# in the inlet on 1.5 ounce bucktails and the same size bass on the beach. When the wind shifted east it was all about Super Strike bottle plugs. The beach structure is a surf casters dream with points, bowls, bars, and deep cuts all in casting range. Come down to the Island and get in on the action while it’s hot. ~ Pete Utschig

November 19, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:00 PM

Look who’s back! It’s Mary Lee!!! Any anglers fishing the backwaters with live bait should switch up to wire leader and put out the 130’s!!! You gonna get spooled. Mary Lee the 16′ 3500-lb great white shark that was tagged by Ocearch was pinging today in the bay. Earlier today she was behind Ship Bottom by the bridges and then around noon she was up in Double Creek Channel.

The morning’s rain and high winds that were forecasted never came. The 10-15kt onshore wind offered great conditions. Most of the anglers that got onto the sand early found fish. So far today, there were six bass checked into the tournament. The largest was Terry McGlynn’s 21-lb 9-oz bass. Most of the other bass were in the mid to high teens.

Now at mid-day this are turning. The rain just started at 12:40pm and it is forecasted to shower into the night. After mid-night the westerlies are going to clear the system outta here. This weekend looks to offer very nice weather for the surf guys.

Last night Steve and Matt McKenney stopped by with a report. They fished Surf City and caught three bass, released one. All on bunker between 3-4pm. Largest was 20-12oz.

Received: Nov 19, 2015 7:56 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Bass Report

Today’s weather has given me the first opportunity in weeks to sit for a few minutes and update Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters November striped bass fishing adventures. What could only be described as phenomenal striped bass action over the last few weeks continues at a strong pace! From snag and dropping live bunker and utilizing various other live baits to artificial presentation, anglers aboard the Reel Fantasea have scored consistently excellent catches of bass in sizes from slots to 40+lbs! How long will this action last? Fingers crossed for December!

Join us on Face Book for latest updates , pictures and video and “Like and share” us please. Side note – The Reel Fantase will be cycling more tautog/blackfish fishing into our trips as we progress further into the season and opportunities present and interest warrants.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas and Happy Thanksgiving!!

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: Nov 19, 2015 7:39 AM Subject: BHCFA Report

The striped bass action for the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association has been nothing short of sensational for the past several days. A mass of large bass have moved down within striking distance of Little Egg Inlet, and there are reports that there are more to follow. Most estimations are that this strong bite will continue into December.

Captain Gary Dugan of the “Irish Jig” termed his action over last weekend as “epic days.” His anglers were catching bass until their arms were too tired. On Sunday his biggest fish was 30-pounds and on Monday he trolled with white spoons. The previous weekend Captain Gary took third place in the Tuckerton Redman Tournament with a top fish of 34.2 pounds.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky had the Magee party out on the “Reel Determined” and reports having some action trolling but catching most of his fish snagging and dropping bunker. His party brought home 6 nice linesiders.

Captain Fran Verdi of the “Francesca Marie” reports he has been catching bass for almost 4 weeks with the current action the best of the fall. His last couple of trips have been off Island Beach State Park where he has been catching fish snagging and dropping and also trolling spoons. He is optimistic the fish will move directly off Beach Haven to cut down on the distance of his trips.

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

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

November 18, 2015 ——————————————————–

5:00 PM – Bunker Arrived at 4pm

Another day with the “Recent Weigh-In” board full of today’s catches! It’s a great thing to see so many anglers getting out and catching. Two bass were over 20-lbs, with most in the teen range. One bluefish. All of the action was from Ship Bottom south through the small towns to north of Beach Haven. “It was lit up!” exclaimed Ben Blair when he stopped by the shop. He got a big bag of fresh bunker and also checked on a bass. He said the bite was good today in Beach Haven Park. He kept one for the table, 31″ 10-lbs 15-oz. Andy Chiorazzi reported a good day off of the mid-island surf. He caught bass up to 20-lbs on bunker. We also got reports out of Beach Haven Park and Spray Beach, Brant Beach and Ship Bottom. There were also reports elsewhere on the Island too.

Marie Rhubart stopped in the shop with a 11-lb 2-oz bluefish that she caught on bunker shortly after weighing in here bass.

Our bunker delivery came at 4pm and while unloaded we got some inlet. The report is it was rough but fishable. There were lots of bass and lots of bunker. The mass that was off of IBSP, Seaside, Ortley has moved south. All of the state’s party boats that were fishing the mass have slid down. Today they were all off of Barnegat Light. Even in the rough conditions the bass has the bunker circled up in tight pods and were were feeding on top.

3:30 PM – Expecting Bunker Soon

More fish hit the scale! Tom White was in the shop about 1pm and picked up the last of the bunker we had. He hit the surf with his grandson Jonathan. They were back at 3pm to check in a nice one. Jonathan Hille of Barnegat weighed in a 40.5″ 24-lb 3-oz. Caught off of the Ship Bottom surf on bunker at 2 pm.

Another weigh in came from John Sanford of Barnegat, NJ. He checked in a 34.5″ 12-lb 6-oz bass that he caught off of the surf in Brant Beach on bunker at 1pm.

Marie (see report below) went back to the beach and got back into ’em. She just called and said that some blues moved in. Still bass being caught too. Another customer called in and said there were fish on peanut bunker in the waves. It wasn’t tight to the beach but on the bar and easy enough to reach.

2:30 PM – The bite is on!

The high pressure over NE Canada has set onshore winds. As a result there’s a nice windswell rolling across the Island’s sand bars today. The white water offers great fishing conditions for surf anglers. Expect stronger swell and winds (shifting south easterly) to build tomorrow as the high interacts with a front cold front which is tracking eastward. Once it clears our area the forecast looks great on Friday, Saturday and Sunday!

We just had some bass come in from the mid-island surf. The anglers reported other anglers catching north and south of their position. Ship Bottom, Brant Beach and areas south have fish. Anglers are catching on bunker and lures. The stand outs are rubber shads and wide profile metals like Hopkins and Kastmasters which match up to a peanut bunker. Anglers are also catching on bucktails and plugs.

Marie Rhubart weighed in a 36.25″ 15-lb 2-oz bass that she caught on bunker in Brant Beach at 2pm. She reported catching a couple others and also said she saw other bass up to about 20-lbs caught down the beach.

Luke Stambaugh weighed in a 33.75″ 12-lb 4-oz bass that he caught on a rubber swim shad. Luke said he was fishing the Spray Beach surf and got into bass at about 1pm. He said that he released one and also lost another.

11:30 AM – We’ll have a delivery of fresh bunker later today. Our supply now is currently low.

We had a nice 27-lb bass weighed in this morning. He reported catching it on a bunker chunk off of the mid-island surf. The fish was not in the tournament.

November 17, 2015 ——————————————————–

Received: Nov 17, 2015 9:21 PM Subject: Inside and Outside Stripers

WOW!! Some of the best striper fishing I have ever seen has been going on since Saturday afternoon.

I had a group out Saturday morning and we struck out completely. Trolled through blackout readings along the beach, fished live bait in the bay, all in some trying conditions, a NW gale wind and rough water, not a touch. It was awful. I dropped off those folks and picked up brothers Steve and Mike Pressler of Wayne, NJ for a steady bite on 10 to 15 pound bass along the North Jetty of Barnegat Inlet. That night I get some information from the Manasquan Inlet boats about a good bite their way. So I had my Sunday morning group, Lenny and Matt Vargas of South Plainfield, NJ, meet me early to start our trek north. We got as far as Lavallette, saw two center consoles and a humpback whale breaching over and over again in tight to the beach. As we approached we saw stripers swirling everywhere. We threw poppers and soft plastics at 15 to 25 pound fish for two hours. When that slowed up we switched to snagging bunker and that kept us busy for the rest of the morning. All boxed up we headed in so I could pick up my afternoon charter. We ran back to Lavallette but the surface action had slowed. We put out the Tony Maja bunker spoons and trolled three nice fish to 25 pounds. Monday morning I kept my two sons, Nick and Max, home from school and along with their Uncle Hubie and cousin Jackie Cunningham of Brick, NJ. We got an early start and made it to Lavallette by 6:30 AM. As soon as we arrived the gannets were diving and in minutes all five of us were hooked up with 10 to 25 pound stripers on 10 pound spinning tackle! It stayed like that for an hour. Back on the snag and drop with the bunker pods and we had non stop action with fish to 30 pounds until 11:30 in the morning. Here’s some video action: www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9O5YE4bMe8 Exhausted, we headed to the barn. Two epic days of bass fishing, then today… I got to sleep in because I had a noon to 5PM trip with Levi Bonnice and his dad Herb. Knowing that the hard NE wind had the ocean and inlet all turned up I gave them a realistic expectation of what to expect: some action in the bay with slot size fish and maybe a few over 28 inches if we work at it. I started at the inlet and there were bunker everywhere! We went on the snag and drop and boxed three nice fish, 12 to 14 pounds. When we couldn’t find anymore bunker to snag, we switched to the light tackle and threw lures. For the next three hours these two connected with 24 to 32 inch bass on every cast or every other cast on the slow drifts. Birds everywhere! Fish breaking water! This was now day 3 of insane bass fishing and this time we didn’t even have to leave the inlet!

The striper run is on! FULL ON! Going back for more tomorrow (Wed), Thurs, and Fri, Nov. 18, 19, and 20. Same tide. Open Boat or charter. 11:30 AM to 4:30 AM each day. $150 person, 3 people max, all fish are shared. Looks like NW winds are in the forecast through the weekend and beyond, so call for those trips, too. We have bonus tags so each person can keep a 24 to 28 inch fish and an over 28 inch fish. On the days we fish outside in the ocean, you can also take an over 43 inch fish for the table. Hope to see you on board!

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

8:00 PM

The wind came and it kicked the fish into gear! There was an all day bite today in the Inlet and also a good number of bass off of the Island’s beach front. The Inlet feed was the best bite we heard about today. It has been going on for awhile now but today it really broke wide open with the rough conditions. Lots of reports flowed in this afternoon and evening. As a result our Andrus bucktail selection got hammered! One angler loading up on bucktails said, “The bite was on, all anglers in boats and on the rocks were hooked up! There’s lots of fish and bait.” There were classy fish in the mix. The biggest we know of was Scott Brockmeyer’s which weighed in at 43.5″ 26-lb 13-oz. Other anglers reported catching on poppers and rubber swim shads. Pete U. had them up to 20 pounds with plenty of bass in the teens as well as smaller ones too. Pete said, “Bucktails and rubber shads were doing a number on them!”

There were six fish (bass and blues) checked into the surf tournament. The largest was Vince Orzel’s 44.25″ 30-lb 12-oz linesider. Most of the weigh-ins came from anglers chunking bunker.

6:45 PM

We got the call late in the day that the Inlet was on fire. Bass on bunker! Guys on land and in boats got into ’em good! Pete U. hit the rocks in the afternoon and roped the bass! We’ll post more details if he provides a detailed report.

Captain Stew Hitchner was on the water today and reported the fish were on the chew even though the conditions were very rough. Stew said, “Lots of big blues trolling and good size bass on the snag and drop. Fishing off of IBSP has been great. Even in the wind today, they were up top again feeding on bunker.

1:45 PM

Store staffer Blake and Pete found some schoolies off the surf this morning. They reported bucktails were the ticket, “Toss into the white water and swing it off spilling into a bowl. Small but fun!”

Nothing yesterday down in Beach Haven. My husband took the day off but not a bite. ~ Kristi Cooper

Received: Nov 16, 2015 10:12 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

I as out three times between Thursday and Sunday with two being charters. The charters ran the spectrum from an amazing artificial bite the first half of the Paul Dejohn party’s trip to epic fishing for big girls for the Ernie Dellheim party. During the Dejohn trip we started off in choppy inlet waters for a mad dog bite. Bass were splashing and rolling, and even though the water was stained brown they hit well on plastics and poppers. With the ocean pretty nasty we moved to the back to pick up a few more fish on live pinfish and plastics. This year spots were in short supply and some of us have been using pinfish which have been working just as well. Trick is to trim the spiny dorsal fin. My philosophy on live bait is: if it swims; is legal to use; and has a place for a circle hook, it works. Pretty sure we landed around 20 or more bass in 26 to 31” range. A blast on light tackle.

After backing off the jetty on Sunday with the Ernie Dellheim party, which has become unfishable to unsafe at times recently due to the lack of ethics by other boaters, we opted to run north after word of a good bite by Capt. Steve Purel of Reel Fantasy Fishing. Thanks Steve! We ran north of Seaside for an amazing bite on fish from 15 to over 30 pounds. When we arrived shortly after 9, the bass were still crashing bunker and as we pulled up to get in line we had a large whale surface about 50’ off our side. Truly awesome.

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

November 16, 2015 ——————————————————–

5:00 PM

Sorry for no report until now. I was on the water all day. I just got back to the shop and heard there were peanuts and adult bunkers along the beach but most not reachable from the beach. Not many fish caught along LBI’s beaches. I got a feeling it’s gonna turn on tonight, tomorrow or the next few days with the wind coming.

Here’s my report…Another epic day for the books. Amazing fall fishing from sun up till sun down off of IBSP. The morning was great with classy bass on top. They were crushing poppers and metal lips. The snag and drop was on and it stayed that way all morning and afternoon. Lots of boats left as the day progressed (they had enough fun) but it only got better (but smaller fish). The bunker pods had bass on them all day and the peanut bunker blitzes were phenomenal. I noticed a totally different size class of fish (smaller) moved in over the afternoon. Huge mass of schoolies and teeners could not resist corralling the peanuts. It was a Nation Geographic show in the making. The visual feeds were an amazing sight. I love watching fish follow, chase and smack at lures. I got some sweet photos and video of bass and the whale feeding. I hope to post one day. Bucktails, metal lips and rubbers were what they wanted. I know there were lots of boats on the water the past couple of days. I hope lots of our readers got in on the action. It’s fall fishing at its best! ~FishHead.Greg

Received: Nov 16, 2015 3:45 PM Subject: Fishing Report: Reel Reaction Sportfishing

The central Jersey region has been “en fuego” on Striped Bass – it’s absolutely banner fishing! We have had some fish up to 35-lbs as of late. Most of the fishing has been on the Bunker snag, while others opt for the troll. Honestly, with this many fish around – plugging, poppers, soft plastics, and snagging is the way to go. It has been a busy few weeks, and I have most of the weekends booked. If interested don’t hesitate, because I wouldn’t mind booking a double trip or you can check in case I have a cancellation.

I had Dave Colwell, Scott Dean, and Shawn Webster of Cherry Hill on a Striped Bass charter. We hit the water early and found a small bite window – with both Dave and Scott hooking into nice Striped Bass to 30-lbs. With the bite slowing to a halt, we headed inside and Shawn picked up a slot bass on live spot. Great day on the water, and we shot some video of the trip.

Later in the week, some more bass moved in and provided good action after the westerly blow. Sunday proved to be a very good day, and both of our morning and afternoon charters scored limits of Striped Bass. We then played catch-n-release on the rest.
In the morning, I had David Rowan, Ben Jordan, and his son Kevin of Delran, NJ on a 4.5 hour Striped Bass charter. The trio started out throwing artificials but could find a hook up. We switched to live-bait and never left the shadows of Barnegat Lighthouse. The crew boated 10 fish up to 20lbs, taking home 7 for the table and freezer. Once we got into one area near the inlet, it was lit up with fish and we had a few double hookups. The highlight of the trip was Ben landing a beautiful 20-lb bass well within the confines of Barnegat Bay.

Next, I had Ross Alber of Medford, NJ on the afternoon Striped Bass charter. With a couple of phone calls of the fish “going off” north of here, we went straight to the area. Our first drift we had 3 fish to 25lbs, and as Ross reeled up one of the Stripers, it had 4 other 25 pounders following it. We moved and played catch -n-release with a few fish in the 20 lb range. All on snag-n-drop bunker. As daylight receded, we hit up the inlet area and got 2 quick slot fish in the 24 to 28 inch range. This was Ross first time fishing for Striped Bass on light-tackle, he’s hooked!
Again, if interested in booking a trip – please call, email, or book through the website as I will do my best to squeeze you in with only a few precious dates remaining. As always, all fish-cleaning, ice, live-bait, tackle, etc is provided (no extra fees), and we always use trolling as a last resort tactic. If interested, please either book through the website or call my cell 609-290-7709.
~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

November 15, 2015 ——————————————————–

4:00 PM

Epic fishing today in the boat! I fished late last night in the boat with my buddies Blake and Pete. We hit the bayside and picked fish. Had a good fun trip catching bass on lures. Conditions got iffy once the wind picked up. But it was nice for a couple hours with lighter winds. Pete and I then fished a couple hours off of the surf at first light, not a touch. Back at home at about 8am, right as I’m about to crash out and get some sleep, I get heads up from Dan DiPasquale, “Epic fishing right now. They are chewing metal lips on top. Get out here!” THANK YOU DAN!!! I scrambled to pack up and I hit the boat. About an hour later I pull right into a bunker and bass rodeo. Classy bass crashing on top. Within a couple casts with a big metal lip I was tight and it stayed that way for a good amount of time. The amount of bass, bunker and boats was crazy. Fortunately the fleet (for the most part) fished respectfully. It was a great time. Everyone was hammering nice bass snag and drop style as well as fishing lures. I found big swimmers and rubber shad to be the best, but I did see and hear of guys hooking up chunking and jigging metal. Pick your poison. Long story short is there’s a solid mass of quality fish in our waters. Get on it while the getting’s good!

Just a heads up there are massive piles of baby bunker up and down the beaches, along LBI (numerous reports today), IBSP and areas north around Seaside and Ortly (I’m sure other areas too). As this bait moves and mixes in with the adult bunker and smaller baits, be on the look out for feeding frenzies. The winds are going northeast on Monday night and east on Tuesday. The surf guys could be in for some great fishing.

~FishHead.Greg

Rudy Egberts stopped in the shop this afternoon to get his reel respooled. While here he gave us heads up that he took the cheese on Saturday’s PBA Striper Tournament with a 42-ln 12-oz bass. Rudy said it was windy but fishing was good. He had some nice fish on the pods and also pick some nice ones trolling. Just a hint Rudy love BlueWater Candy trolling gear like the Striper Brellas and Mojos. Stop by if you need something we are loaded up with the right tackle for bass fishing.

November 14, 2015 ——————————————————–

7:00 PM

About an hour or two ago we received a delivery of fresh bunker. We currently have premium baits ready for chunkers. The early birds tomorrow will be pleased. When receiving the delivery we noticed some butterfish in the mix. The guys reported other bait in the area too… bay anchovies, spearing and squid as well as adult bunker and baby bunker. The bunker man said that there wasn’t much bait in tight to the beach, “Most of it was off a little ways.” With the wind easing all we can do is hope they push in tight and hold there.

Two angler in the shop today reported seeing baby bunker from the surf. One said he saw fish spraying bait in the morning but it was too far off the beach to reach.
John Howell was out in the boat this morning. He weighed in a 22-lb 10-lb bass for the Forked River Tuna Club’s Fall Bass and Blues Tournament.

We heard the boats fishing the Inlet had another great day today. It’s about as tight as a dance party out there but the fish are chewing. Live bait is doing the trick as well as bucktails and shads.

12:00 PM

The westerlies really kicked in late this morning. The anglers fishing the surf have reported windy but fishable conditions. The ocean is flat as a lake along the beach with only a miniature trace swell left over. The current gusty conditions look to subside tonight. Looking at the forecast it could be a great night for fishing with ~10mph westerly winds. Sunday looks like a stellar day with lots of sun, west winds 10-20 and a high in the upper 50’s.

So far today there was one striped bass entered into the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. The 42″ 26-lb 5-oz bass was caught by John DoBol off of the Barnegat Light surf on bunker at about 7:30AM. For more details on the tournament and to check in on yesterday’s catches go to www.LBIFT.com

Just a reminder… Monday November 16th is the Frank Panzone Memorial $1000 Bonus Prize Day – $1000 Cash award for the largest striped bass weighed in on tournament day ending Nov 16 in honor of Frank Panzone. Please take note contest day begins at 6:01 pm the day prior and ends 6pm on the day of prize award. In the event no striped bass are scored the Special Daily Awards will be rolled over into the following day(s) until awarded.

November 13, 2015 ——————————————————–

3:30 PM

Well Robbie did it again! He joined the forty pound club last week with a 40-5 and then this week he raised it up to 44-10. He puts his time in and this year it really shows. Robbie also checked in a 31-9 back in mid October. Along with all of those fish, Robbie has also released a good amount of linesiders too. He’s dialed in!

So far today we heard of two bass that were chucked up on bunker mid day. It’s been a slow day. Most anglers reported catching lots of doggies and skates. One angler said the doggies were spitting up peanut bunker. While catching doggies is the last thing surf anglers want to hear, peanut bunker in the surf is awesome. This is some great news and music to ears of surfcasters who fish lures! Covered up in doggies? Toss a plug. If these peanuts stick around things could get silly!!!

I hit the mid-island surf this morning from 6:30-10:30 using bunker. There were probably about 40 or so anglers lined up. All I saw was sharks caught. No bass spotted. Just figured I would drop a report for you guys. ~Jim Ward

On November 16th the tog bag limit goes up to 6 fish. We know lots of wreck anglers cant wait to give it a go. While thinking wreck fishing here is an news article about a new artificial reef coming soon just north of Barnegat Inlet. There was rumor going around, but now it sounds like it’s really coming. Can’t wait to fish it in the future. While not offering much specific details it still good news. Read the article here.

November 12, 2015 ——————————————————–

7:00 PM

Rob Vallone weighed in a 44-lb 10-oz 47.75″ bass this evening. He caught the linesider at about 5:30PM off of the surf on bunker. Robbie stopped by to hang it minutes before the end of day cut off at 6pm. Robbie mentioned that the bass had an empty belly.

12:00 PM

So far today there was one thirty pound bass checked in for the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. Mike Gowen of the LBI Fishing Club caught it this morning off of the mid-island surf on bunker. While the entire surf isn’t boiling with fish, they are here and will be for the rest of the month. Yesterday there were nine fish checked into the surf tournament. The day before (on the 10th) there were ten.

We got a couple reports from anglers bucktailing bass in the inlet. The bass were also eating rubber shads too. There’s lots of spearing in tight to the rocks.

The ocean temp is 58 degrees which is warmer than average for this time of year. But who wants to complain? Classy fish moved into our area weeks ago and have staged right where we want them. The baits has been here and hopefully it stays.

A cold front will sweep through today and behind it there will be some STIFF westerlies. Just a heads up there’s is a gale warning in effect from tonight through Friday night. Our temps dip down over the weekend, with a local forecast low of 38 degrees Saturday. But, it looks like we’ll then rebound back to mid-temps after the weekend through next week.

Received: Nov 12, 2015 8:17 AM Subject: BHCFA Weekly Report

Striped bass continue to dominate the action for the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association. The results depend on waves of fish.

The stripers are arriving in waves as they migrate on their way south for the winter. There will be torrid action for a few days and then things cool off for another few days. The one constant has been a very good amount of bait around, especially in close to the beach. This will continue to attract and hold the fish.

About a week ago the bass were around in very good numbers and they were big fish-20-35 pounds. Captain Fran Verdi on the “Francesca Marie” had several days of arm tiring action as he and his guests caught fish by live-lining bunker and by trolling bunker spoons. When they found bass in the bunker pods, they often had multiple hookups by the fishermen.

Then last weekend arrived and the bite slowed down dramatically. Captain Lindsay Fuller had the Hancock party out on Monday looking for bass and came up empty handed. Despite perfect calm conditions for a day on the ocean, the fish were not to be had. Captain Lindsay worked the entire shoreline of Long Beach Island and found many schools of large bunker but no bass feeding on them. He did lose several of the snagged bunker to either bluefish or spiny dogfish. He even tried trolling but with the same results.

Reports from waters north of Beach Haven indicate there are more schools of stripers off Monmouth County heading south. This should mean more rod bending action as early as the upcoming weekend or early next week.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

November 11, 2015 ——————————————————–

Received: Nov 11, 2015 3:30 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – All out striper blast today!!!

Although the weather was still a little unsettled on the ocean, the back bay and nearby inland waters are LOADED with striped bass! Today was an all bass slamboree on both live and artificials. All day long we had doubles, triples and quads screaming the drags and bending the rods with bass from 8-22lbs! At last minute cancellation for this Friday has open up the morning for either private or open boat availability. If striped bass is your passion now is the time to GO!!! Friday morning 6am- 12pm and 130pm – 5pm available. Come on and join the fun!

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: Nov 11, 2015 1:02 PM Subject: Good news and more good news!

Weather looks awful, right? It will be a little while before we could go catch some stripers, right? Wrong! Just hung up with Capt. Steve Purul of the Reel Fantasea and he is crushing the fish….in the bay! When I asked him if he had any over 28″, he said “They’re all over 28″, fish up to 20 pounds!” What?! And here I sit waiting for a UPS delivery and the Direct TV guy….seriously, I am freaking out. Doubtful that this is a one day “flash in the pan” bite”, I will be running tomorrow (Thurs) and Friday,Nov 12 and 13, 9 AM to 2 PM to get in on this. With or without crew! Just for the knowing, I have the live bait we need to capitalize on this. I’ve been saving it for just such an occasion. The wind is going to continue to crank for a few more days. That brings us to the other “good news”, by Thursday night the wind is switching to the west and staying hard west/northwest through Sunday night…so far, maybe longer, that’s as far as the forecast goes right now. This means by Friday we could have ocean fishing as an option or the very latest Saturday morning. That hard west lays out the ocean to a flat sea providing you stay within 2 miles of shore, east of that, it will start to get bumpy, still fishable, though. I am already booked in the mornings this Sat and Sun, Nov 14 and 15, so I am adding Noon to 5 PM trips on each of those days, as well. OPEN BOAT or Charter: Tomorrow (Thurs) and Friday, Stripers in the Bay, 9AM to 2PM. Also Sat and Sun, Nov 14/15 Ocean or Bay/Ocean Combo Noon to 5PM. All trips $160 person, 3 people max, all fish shared. Call to reserve a spot. We are available 7 days a week thru December.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

9:00 AM – This day and everyday, THANK YOU to all veterans and active duty military.

One report off of the surf this morning came from a regular customer Matt, “A keeper size bass off of the mid-island surf on bunker.”

November 10, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM

There’s only a small percentage of surfcaster that fish foul weather but those that do absolutely love it. And for good reason. Heavy winds and big surf get the fish fired up to eat and today was no different. Taking a look at the LBIFT.com live results page you’ll find the recent weigh-in feed filled with today’s fish. The trend, north end surf chunking bunker. Bass pushing 37 pounds and blues pushing 19 pounds. Some classy fish! That said not everyone is tossing massive bait and weight. Store staffer Blake got out in the morning and also in the afternoon and manage to get bit on both sessions fishing lures. He said, “You needed to cast 3-4oz metals to punch through the wind. Once you get out there, then it was hard to keep the belly out of your line. But the fish were in there!”

1:00 PM

I read somewhere that they were snagging squid in the wash up in SP. My hunch paid off. Match the hatch! ~ Rob Swif
Rob just caught a pugheaded striped bass on squid. See report below. Yes Rob we just heard the same thing. Store staffer Blake showed us a photo he took last night of a good size squid he hooked plugging at night.

The cranking northeast wind has the boats tied up tight in their slips and the surf churned up. Those anglers that live for nor’east blows were pumped up this morning and had fish on the beach. We got word the north end of the Island had a number of fish caught. Bass up to 37 pounds and blues up to 14 pounds. Check out the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament’s website for more details.

Captain Jeff Warford was in the shop this morning gearing up with more striper tackle. He fished yesterday he caught two bass on the troll. He said the bluefish invaded, “We couldn’t get away from them. The monsters were chewing everything. That’s why I’m here loading up!” There’s lots of blues and bass in the area. Anyone looking to get out and fish with Jeff should make a call 201-988-5475 as soon as possible.

Received: Nov 10, 2015 11:46 AM Subject: Press Release: Barnegat HS Fisherman’s Fleamarket

Barnegat High School Fishing Club will host it’s 7th Annual Fisherman’s Fleamarket on Saturday (December 12, 2015) from 9am to 1pm. Admission is $4 (Children 12 and under are Free). The event will be held at: Barnegat High School, 180 Bengal Blvd, Barnegat, NJ 08005

All proceeds go towards the Barnegat High School Fishing Club which is comprised of students in Grades 9 through 12. We always get great support from local anglers, businesses, and our community. So please come out and support the students of the fishing club. Plus, it is a great time to stock up on fishing gifts before the holidays. There will be door prizes every 1/2 hour which is included with the admission. Must be present to win.

Last year we packed the house, and were able to give away $1000 in scholarships to students of the club, in addition to help offset the costs of the club’s fishing trips. There is limited space available for vendors, so if your interested – please contact me ASAP: btaylor@barnegatschools.com

~ Capt. Brett Taylor, Fishing Club Advisor

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…
Posted November 10, 2015 – “Big bass have arrived at Long Beach Island and the fishing is hot,” crows FishHead Greg at Fisherman’s Headquarters, adding that bunker chunks, the snag ‘n drop, plugs and clam are all taking tolls on the island’s suds new émigrés. The snag ‘n drop is also taking bass out front, like the 40-pound cow corralled by New Egypt’s Greg Sonday. Trolled plugs are not immune to being struck. Sharpie Ed Krzanowski felt the plug pounce before boxing a bass weighing 47 pounds, 5 ounces. Rob Vallone from Little Egg Harbor bunkered a 45-1/2-inch linesider from the sands at Beach Haven. Not to be overlooked for striper action is the south jetty at Barnegat Inlet where linesiders to 30 inches are smacking and whacking poppers and plastic shads. A very hearty “Congrats!” to future Fishing Hall of Fame 6 year-old Sam Adams who hooked, fought and beached a rotund 46.75-inch cow which skyrocketed to the number two slot in the LBI Surf Fishing Classic. That tournament continues through December 6th with many, many prizes being awarded on a daily basis – and yes, there’s still time to enter!

Received: Nov 09, 2015 11:03 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Having been on the water every day from Tuesday through Sunday afternoon, with the exception of Saturday, I have a lot to report about. As many of you may already know the snag drop bite heated up during the week and was best in the early morning. But what you may not know is the stellar action that has been taking place around the inlet and nearby back bay waters. Slot fish to some over 30” have provided steady action on live bait like pinfish and spots, to BKDs to keep drags screaming during the down time out front. At times whales and porpoises showed up for some icing on the cake. While with the Ryan Miller party we even saw a 30’ whale in the inlet swimming tight to the inside of the north jetty! That was a bonus to the bass to 23 pounds on that day for sure. During the TJ Vigliotta party’s trip, 12 year old Matt learned how to catch bass with live bait on circle hooks (pic attached) decking several nice fish. Sunday’s mid-day / evening trip with the Chris Doran party will be one that I remember for a long time. After drawing a blank working the bunker schools we came inside the inlet and to drift live bait. As the sun stared to get a little lower in the sky, birds started picking bait from the north pocket. I couldn’t believe how crowded for a Sunday evening. Bass were being landed here and there throughout the fleet. Picking up a few on live bait we switched to BKDs as the sun set and the bite got hot, hot, hot. Did I say hot? It was an all-out mad dog bite on 24”-30” bass. Most of the time we had at least one fish on and you could see the bass slapping and boiling in the twilight. As dark settled in, the bite continued and we called it an evening after landing the last of three double headers. World class light tackle fishing right here in NJ, I like it! Attached is a picture of Evan Doran with one of his bass. I think one of the most enjoyable things coming out of this week was my client’s desire to practice catch and release with most of the fish. With bonus tags available and a fish or two for the table no limits were taken. It’s nice to see anglers exercising their right to release and not filet. I am not against harvesting for diner and taking your fair share, I love to eat fish and do take a number of fish out of the stock every year. The point I would like to leave you with is that when you thumb a bass to take out the hook you are holding the future in your hands. In the near future I have this Saturday open.

BTW – my website is down right now as I switch over its hosting location. If you have questions please email, txt or call.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

November 9, 2015 ——————————————————–

3:00 PM

Check out this unusual 28.5″ bass recently caught and released by Rob Swift off of the #LBI surf on squid. The deformed steep forehead, pushed in snout, #PUGHEADED #StripedBass is documented in literature and believed to be a genetic abnormality but could be due to environmental factors.

1:00 PM

Sunday at 6pm marked the half way point of the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. Today marks the beginning of the Third Segment.

For years here at Fisherman’s Hq, we have awarded a Striped Bass weekend prize. It’s a $100 store gift certificate to the anglers who enter the heaviest bass each Saturday and Sunday. The winners of the weekend prizes for the First and Second Segment are listed below. Congrats! Please stop by and pick up your envelop.
2015 61st Annual LBI Surf Fishing Classic – Fisherman’s HQ Weekend Prizes
Segment 1 & 2 Winners: Dates October 10 to November 8th
Weigh-In Date/Time
Angler
Weight
10/10/2015 – 11:35 AM
Merle Van Liere
34 lbs.
10/17/2015 – 8:52 AM
Christian Martin
11 lbs. 2 oz.
10/18/2015 – 8:07 AM
Robert Vallone
31 lbs. 9 oz.
10/25/2015 – 3:25 PM
Charlie Cirecka
32 lbs. 2 oz.
10/31/2015 – 7:15 AM
Rich Kindt
20 lbs. 5 oz.
11/01/2015 – 4:00 PM
Steve Taylor
15 lbs. 10 oz.
11/07/2015 – 7:45 AM
Jason Hoch
17 lbs. 13 oz.

12:00 PM

Our local bunker boat has been catching blues offshore for awhile now. Finally we got a recent report of some yellow eye demons from a land based angler. Yesterday Harold McMaster got a pair of them on the north end of the island on a plug. One was 33″ and the other was 32 inches. Harold currently hold first place largest bluefish in the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament with his 14-pounder caught on 10/28.

November 8, 2015 ——————————————————–

5:30 PM

It’s prime time fall fishing and what a crazy week it was. We expect more mayhem soon but so far today, no weigh-ins.

One surf angler reported no bass but lots of ling. He said, “I bought a couple bunker and a half dozen clams. I hit the surf in the morning and caught five ling on six clam baits. Not a touch on bunker.” From the surf guys we heard about bunker in tight to the beach from Brant Beach up through North Beach. Some guys got their snag hooks out far enough to reach ’em but no bass were caught that we know of.

A boat angler in the shop today reported a serious body of bass off of mid-island and the south end today and yesterday. He said there were 30-40 pound class bass on bunker in the Ship Bottom to Brant Beach area as well as off of Beach Haven. We reported catching classy fish both trolling Mojo rigs and spoons as well as on the snag and drop.

Here is a report from Dan DiPasquale stopped in the shop yesterday after getting off the water and reported the following… “We broke the inlet at 5:50 am ran along IBSP didn’t see anything going on. Ran south and there was a short snag and drop bite off of Harvey Cedars. The dogs were a problem and the bait was scattered. We found good marks in close to Harvey cedars but no takers on the troll or snag and drop. Later in the afternoon, we ran north and trolled some deep water off of IBSP. Wasn’t marking much but within 20 minutes one reel was screaming. We landed a 39″ fish on a Tony Maja bunker spoon. Trolled a little longer but decided to head in as it was getting dark out. We saw the whale cruising south but not much action around him.”

11:30 PM

LBI Surf Fishing Tournament News: Upcoming Special Classic Prizes…
11/09 – A gift certificate to Barrys Do Me A Flavor will go to someone that catches a fish today.
11/10 – 3 Plugs donated by a friend of the tournament will be given to someone that catches a fish today.
11/11 – Veteran Day. Jingles Bait and Tackle will give $100 to the largest bass. If you are a Vet we will double it.
11/12 – A headlamp will be given to someone that catches a fish today. Headlamp donated by Princeton Tec
11/13 – A surf rod donated by Folsom Corp. will go to someone that catches a fish today.
11/14 – A headlamp will be given to someone that catches a fish today. Headlamp donated by Princeton Tec.
11/15 – A lure bag filled with goodies provided by Sportfish Products will go to someone that catches a fish today
11/16 – $1000 largest bass in Honor of Frank Panzone.
11/17 – 100 dollars to a women with a bass closest to 14 pounds in memory of Jean Fillman
11/18 – A headlamp will be given to someone that catches a fish today. Headlamp donated by Princeton Tec
11/19 – A gift bag full of goodies from Spice It Up in Bay Village (random pick)

November 7, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:30 PM

I caught a 17-lb striped bass on live eel last night around 10pm in Brant Beach. Out again early this morning, sharks. Saw some dolphins and a few splashes from jumping baitfish. Otherwise… Nada. ~ Jim Crane

Jason Hoch stopped in the shop today morning with a 17-lb 13-oz bass. He reported a slow morning off of the Ship Bottom beach. He was chunking bunker. Another report came from Edmund Marvin who checked in a 15-lb 11-oz bass. He caught it last night chunking bunker off of the Hervey Cedars. One other report came from a customer who called in and wanted to share he released a short and also got a teen sized keeper for dinner. He was fishing bunker in Brant Beach this morning.

Received: Nov 7, 2015 8:33 AM Subject: Stripers… Every Size

We are catching every size class striped bass right now. Over the last few days we have snagged and livelined bunker along the beach for 20 to 35 pound fish, trolled bunker spoons and Mojos for 10 to 20 pound fish, and casted soft plastics under birds for 26 to 28 inch fish. What a variety of size class and techniques going on right now!

The weather has been extraordinary, wearing t-shirts in November. Sea condition has been great and looking at the NOAA forecast right now, we are going to have light and variable winds through Wednesday at least. This is the fishery we have been waiting for and the weather and sea condition is a bonus.

I have one spot open on our Monday Open Boat trip. Available for Charter or Open Boat: Tues Nov 10, Wed Nov 11 (Veterans Day), Thurs Nov 12, and Fri Nov 13. We are sailing 7 days a week through December.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

November 6, 2015 ——————————————————–

5:00 PM – Live Clams Arrive a short while ago!

John Moscatello of Lincoln Park caught a 39.5″ 23-lb 5-oz bass off of the Beach Haven surf on bunker at about 3:30pm today.

Twelve year old Branden Clark was on the water with his father early this morning. They reported bass and bunker stacked in tight to the beach. Branden said, “We caught ’em good on the snag and drop. We also had them on top eating lures… pencil poppers and swim shads.”
Captain Jeff Warford on the No Limit out of Barnegat Light just stopped in the shop to purchase some gear. While here he shared some intel from his recent fishing trips inshore and offshore. He’s stoked because the fishing has been great. Jeff said, “Fishing offshore Tuesday into Wednesday was good. I fished the five degree temp break at the south west cornier of the Hudson. We chunked up 9 yellow fin two long fin and a swordfish. Fishing inshore today along the beach we got into them. The 8 hour charters was limited out in 3 hours. We were back to the dock by noon. All 11 fish were in the 20-30# class and caught trolling off of IBSP.” Jeff mentioned that he has two spots available for an open boat trip Monday November 9th. $150 all included. Call 201-988-5475 to get a spot.

3:00 PM
Lots of weigh-ins this morning and afternoon. There’s just too many to list. The majority came from boat anglers but surf anglers caught too. Check out www.LBIFT.com for the latest surf fishing tournament standings.

The fall run is in full swing with a solid body of fish in our local waters. The surf anglers are producing fishing lures and chunking bunker. Boat anglers are trolling as well as snag and dropping live bunker.

While lot a local report, here’s a short paragraph we received from Bob Bruns’ trip to the Salmon River on Tuesday. I had 12 hook-ups but managed to land a Coho salmon and nice steelhead. They were tough to land in the fast water with fly tackle and 8 lb test tippet. I actually hooked a king salmon that I swear was a snag. Walked up the river pointing the rod at the snag and pulling directly on my line. Then the snag started moving. I lifted my rod and it was a big King salmon that jumped three times on his way down-river and straightened the hook. I’m looking forward to heading down to the shore to fish the brine. ~ Bob Bruns

Received: Nov 5, 2015 1:59 PM Subject: BHCFA Weekly Report

The invasion of big striped bass finally has arrived to Long Beach Island. The captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are in the midst of what promises to be a strong November fishery. After several weeks of spotty action and stories of some strong fishing along the northern coast, the bass have arrived feeding on large schools of bunker. Since there are still large numbers of these fish to the north, and the schools of bait off Long Beach Island are large, this fishing should be around for several weeks.

The fish are being caught in a variety of ways. Perhaps the easiest is to locate a school of bunker on top of the water column. Using snag hooks, a cast is made into the school hooking onto a bunker. If there are any bass feeding on the bunker school, the live-lined bunker quickly draws attention. When there are no bunker on the surface but signs of bass are showing on the fish finder screen, then jigging with artificial lures including AVA’s can be effective. Lastly, trolling bunker spoons has been catching a lot of bass in the past week. This method enables the captain to cover a lot of territory, and the results are often very large fish. Some catches have also been made trolling Stretch’s and umbrella rigs.

The majority of the current catches are ranging from 20-35 pounds with some fish even going into the 40’s. Although the prospects look good for this to be an extended run of fish, things can change quickly. Anglers wanting to get in on this striper action are urged to strike while the iron is hot.

Additional information on the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be obtained by going to www.BHCFA.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr

November 5, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:00 PM

We got word the bass and bunker came up on the beach this morning off of the northend surf. It sounds like Harvey Cedars was the place to be.

11:00 AM

More reports from the boat as well as the beach. All with the same theme, the bass are here!

This morning we had a number of weigh-ins off of the surf… Jason Vogel of the LBI Fishing Club weighed in a 41.5″ 31-lb 4-oz bass that he caught on a Daiwa SP Minnow late last night off of the North Beach surf. Rob Vallone of LEH weighed in a 45.5″ 40-lb 5-oz bass that he caught on bunker in North Beach Haven late last night. Jonathan Hille of Barnegat weighed in a 37″ 20-lb 4-oz bass that he caught on bunker this morning off of the Harvey Cedars surf. He currently leads the 17 & Under Youth Division. Check out www.LBIFT.com for the latest tournament standings.

Mr. Vanderbeck was in the shop purchasing both fresh and frozen bunker. He reported the crabbing is great. He said that recently it has been some of the best of the year for size quality and quantity.

Alex and Frank Howey of Deptford weighed in a pair of bass yesterday. Alex age 11 weighed in a 11-lb 13-oz and his father Frank a 23-lb 4-oz bass.

Received: Nov 5, 2015 6:28 AM Subject: Big Bass Are Here!!!

Yesterday’s open boat was a resounding success as we were fast into phenomenal snag and drop action while being doubled, tripled and quadrupled up with 20-mid 30lbs class fish all morning! Vast schools of bunker were erupting all around the boat with hungry striped bass in pursuit ! At time we had bass just inches away from our hull as the hapless bait fish tried to find any and all type of protection from the bass. Simply snagging a bunker and holding on was all it took to score these plus size beauty’s!

How long will the bass be here? Tons of bait , ideal water temps , looks like a November to remember is on tap!! Check us out on face book and hopefully “like us” to view video and photos!

Wishing everyone air winds and calm seas,
~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

November 4, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:00 PM

So here is the scoop on the bite this morning… It was epic! What else do you expect to find on a beautifully calm Indian Summer day in early November when there’s tons of bait and migrating striped bass?

Store staffer Rob Vallone was on the water with his father Carl. They got into ’em good. Robbie said there was bait stacked in tight to the beach with bass all over them. Whales and dolphins were feasting too. Robbie said, “It was on! Fish smashing on top. We caught nine bass from 25-42-lbs on the boga. It was best from 8-10am but they were still biting when we left in the 11 o’clock hour.”

Greg Sonday of New Egypt was in on the action too. He weighed in a 46″ 40 pound bass that he caught at 8am off IBSP on the snag and drop. Greg reported a hot bite catching a dozen quality fish, “All the bass you wanted. Lots of bait with active whales and dolphins.”

Dave Spendiff of the Village Harbour Fishing Club weighed in a 25-lb 13-oz bass that he caught off of IBSP in the boat this morning.

11:00 AM

We heard talk this morning about a nice bass bite on the bunker pods off of IBSP. Sounds like there were some quality fish crushing bunker on top. Gotta love it! More than likely the same kind of action went down closer our way too off of the Island.

Received: Nov 3, 2015 9:43 PM Subject: November 3rd Fishing Report

Had the Doug party out today for a bass trip. The morning started out slow on the troll so with no bites we moved over to some snag and drop and we
immediately had our first bass right off the bathing beach. With no other fish around I got a call from another captain that the fish were on down south of seaside. So we made the move. We were catching fish all day on the snag and drop and my favorite way jig head with a white shad. By the end of the day the guys had there limit and started to catch and release. The biggest bass off the day was a 32 pounder. Thanks guys for a great day. We will be sailing all week for big bass.

~ Capt. Tom Cormann, Reel Chaos Charters 201.788.3223

November 3, 2015 ——————————————————–

6:00 PM

A solid deliver of fresh bunker arrived right at dark. We have a nice batch here so the guys chunking tonight and tomorrow morning will have premium baits.

Sean D. fished with Joni and Max off of IBSP this afternoon. They had a lot of good marks with what seemed like plenty of fish in the area but no bites. They headed up the 3 mile line towards Seaside and picked up one bass. We got a report from a customer in the shop today who reported lots of bunker off of the mid-island beaches. He tried to snag and drop and also pulled spoons through out the morning. He managed to pick up a pair of bass utilizing each method.

Bill Dabney stopped by the shop to weigh in a 34-lb 4-oz linesider. He caught the fish trolling spoons off of the south end of the Island this afternoon. Bill said he was trolling in 55′ of water in the area of the Red Tower. He also shared that there was lots of bait down deep.

Lenny was in the shop earlier today and reported the tog are still chewing up at the Barnegat Inlet. He said that yesterday was much better than today but he still managed to have some fun. Lenny mentioned that the herring and rainbait are thick enough to walk on.

Pat Heddendorf of the South Jersey Anglers reported a nice catch of seabass up to 2-lbs 12-oz as well as triggerfish on the Barnegat Reef site today.

1:00 PM

Andy Niznik of Merchantville weighed in a 33.5″ 11.5-lb bass just a short while ago. He caught it off of the mid-island surf on bunker at about 10am.

Store staffer Rob Vallone reported catching a couple nice bass up to forty inches after dark last night. So far today we heard chatter about some bass caught off of the mid-island surf yesterday. This morning store staffer Laura Gilbert sent us a photo of a beautiful striper she caught in the boat. Both store staffer Max and Joni are heading out on the boat now. We’ll report how they make out on a later report. With an absolutely flawless day today and tomorrow, why not get out an enjoy the Indian Summer. Fish LBI!
Received: Nov 3, 2015 11:15 AM Subject: Open Boat Tomorrow Wednesday Nov 4th

Hey Folks – Last minute trip availability – Wed 4th – Stripers, tog and seabass. Fishing has been excellent for all the above . 6am – 1pm , all bait, tackle and fish cleaning included $175.00pp. Freezer stocking time! Call only to reserve. Come join in the Fall harvest!!

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

November 2, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:00 PM

Captain Jeff of No Limit Sportfishing just gave us this report from today… “I had the Wayne party out for an eight hour trip in search of bass. The morning started off slow so we made a switch over to wreck fishing and got the rods bent quickly. We had our four man limit of tog up to 8-lbs on live green crab in less than an hour. Back up on the troll, I worked the three mile line with spoons. The first bite came at 1pm on a chartreuse Tony Maja spoon. Soon after the sounder was painted with bait and fish. The bass seemed to key in on and bite the high-vis color spoons best. The all chartreuses as well as the half and half “parrot” ones were best. We made this adjustment to our spread and the bass kept chewing. The bite was on! At one point we had ’em boiling on the surface all around the boat. We finished the day keeping the party’s limit with a mix of quality over and under linesiders for the table. We also released many other classy fish.

I’m heading to fish offshore tomorrow (Tuesday-Wednesday) so I will be out of touch. Anyone looking to head out on the water and hammer some bass late week and weekend should give me a call and leave a message or you could also call Mark DeBlasio to book at 201-988-5475. Hope to see you on the boat!
~ Capt Jeff Warford, No Limit Sportfishing, 609-377-9136

6:00 PM

A healthy delivery of live clam, green crabs and primo fresh bunker arrived this afternoon. We are looking at a beautiful night for fishing. Are you heading out?

1:00 PM

This morning longtime friend of the shop and hardcore local angler stopped in the shop with a fish of a lifetime. Here’s a photo. Ed Krzanowski of Manahawkin caught a 47″ 47-lb 5-oz monster linesider off of the surf this morning on a plug. I heard the news when I can into the shop and had to give Ed a call to give him a verbal high five. Ed is a humble, great guy who puts in and has put in a tremendous amount of time on the sand. You will not find Ed with a bait rod on his truck. He fools the best of ’em with plastic and wood. I can say he is one of the anglers I looked up to when growing up for his plug fishing persistence. When talking to Ed today he shared that after 30+ years fishing the LBI Surf Tournament with lots of 30-lb fish this is his personal best. That’s saying something because I’ve seen his photos from LBI’s heyday.

Ed said, “I pulled up to a nice stretch of water in Harvey Cedars and walked out on the sand bar. It was gray light about 6-6:30 and there was bunker in the area. I saw the nervous water. Second cast on a big yellow Bomber. It was smoking the drag on my Van Staal 150 and it took me down to about 1/3 of the spool.. It was a great fight but I didn’t think the fish was as big as it was until i had to get it up the beach. Luckily there was another angler (Ed Y.) close by. He helped me get it into my truck.” Ed closed the conversation telling me with confidence now is the time.

There’s a solid population of fish here and some quality ones too. Tomorrow marks the last quarter of the moon cycle. We had fish coming off of late October’ full moon and now going into early November’s new moon it is the time. Anyone waiting for the “run” to show up is missing out on great fishing opportunities.

~FishHead.Greg

This past weekend was the 19th Annual Striped Bass Derby hosted by Sea Shell Resort and Beach Club. The Sea Shell has put on a great tournament for a number of years and always closes out the “Summer 2015” with a great fishing tournament. The three day event draws anglers from all around the east coast in search of striped bass and has raised more then $300,000 to date to benefit local organizations. This year’s tournament was to benefit the Marine Mammal Stranding Center and David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation. We spoke to a number of anglers who fish the Derby and most reported great fishing. The anglers who slow trolled spoons raised a very good amount of quality bass. Also there were boats who caught fish chunking and fishing live bait in the back bay and inlets. Here some info on the catches… Segment One had two of the biggest fish ever in teh Sea Shell’s 19 years: 47.1-lbs Donuts, 46.8-lb BOR, 37.45-lbs Let It Fly, 28.65-lbs Pizza Man, 27.2-lb ABC, 27-lbs Mary Beth, 20.8-lbs XYZ, 16.25-lbs Hoagie II, 8.7-lbs Laura. Segment Two: 41.6-lbs Sun of A Fish, 31.9-lbs Bassassin, 29.65-lbs BOR, 28.75-lbs Jolly Raj, 24.55-lbs Island Girl, 22.5-lbs Hooker, 22.4-lbs Mary Beth, 22.15-lbs Hoagie II, 19-lbs Code Orange, 15.65-lbs Laura.

Received: Nov 2, 2015 12:20 PM Subject: Excellent Weekend Of Bass Fishing

Had to go to Plan B to fish this past weekend. The ocean was a little rough for my taste. We fished live bait in the inlet and hammered away at 26 to 27.99999 inch stripers. We did put a 28 and 32 inch fish in the box on Saturday’s trip and three more 28 to 29 inch fish on Sunday’s trip. Had a dozen fish for three anglers on Saturday and 23 fish for two busy guys on Sunday. The forecast is for light and variable winds all week. We’ll be running out the inlet and combing the shoreline for birds, readings, and bass. Casting light tackle with soft plastics or diamond jigging is always our first choice but I will bring the trolling gear, too, as there have been some heavyweight fish trolled out in the deep on bunker spoons. With a calm ocean we can run as far as we need to find fish. Running Open Boat or charter every day thru December.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

November 1, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:00 PM

Rich Kindt stopped in the shop earlier today. While here he reported dropping a fish today fishing the same area that he caught his 20 pounder yesterday.

11:00 AM

We closed out October and welcome November with a quality batch of fish around. While not epic fishing, there’s fish here and some classy ones at that. November is the month most have waited for. Traditionally it’s filled with great fishing on LBI and the surrounding waters. The surf, back bay, inlets and ocean all offer great opportunities to get in on fun fishing action.

There were lots of anglers fishing yesterday with the beautiful weather combo’d with two tournament (Sea Shell’s Striped Bass Derby Boat Tournament and the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament). There were a number of quality fish caught for the Sea Shell Derby from boat anglers trolling the local beaches. We also heard about some nice bass caught live lining bunker and eels. While the surf was spotty there were a great number of fish reported.

Recent news from the surf:

Rich Kindt of Manahawkin took the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament’s $500 Halloween Prize Awarded by Surf City Bait and Tackle with his 20-lb 5-oz bass yesterday. Rich caught his linesider at about 7am off of the Loveladies surf on bunker. Yesterday’s first place daily went to Courtland Foos for his 19-lb 6-oz bass. Courtland fooled his fish with a lure (Daiwa SP Minnow) at about 5:15am fishing the Beach Haven surf. With this fish Courtland also won the $100 Trick or Treat Bass Special Prize donated by Carl Gallagher Masonry in memory of his friend Bob Turanski, DMD for the bass weighing closest to 18-lb 13-oz. Yesterday’s second place daily went to Rich for his 20-5 since he already won a first place daily on 10/27. Another weighin for the surf tournament came from Edmund Marvin of Tuckerton. Ed checked in a 9-lb 12-oz bass which he caught off of the Loveladies surf on bunker at about 3:30pm.

Recent new from the boat:

Captain Jeff had a party out yesterday. He reported having a slow day in heavy boat traffic, but managed to raise three bass trolling. Two were in the high twenties and one was 43-lbs. A customer was in the shop yesterday mid-day re-upping his tuna gear supplies. He mentioned that he just got back to the dock and off of the Miss Barnegat Light. He was on land for a few hours and then heading right back out. While here he reported loosing a nice swordfish at the side of the boat. He also said while he didn’t, there were other anglers that put together a nice catch of yellowfin tuna.

Received: Nov 1, 2015 11:16 AM Subject: Reel Reaction Charters – Last Minute

I’m getting a lot of good reports of bass moving down and also around our area, and hitting them on live-bait, plugs, and artificials. I only have one weekend date available for November (22nd), and have another one that just opened up (Nov 5th). I know it’s last minute, but I had to move a previously booked trip and now I have this Thursday (November 5th) available for charter. Live bait availability is a little low this year, but I managed to secure some so a few (4 to 5) spot per person is included. We also are participating in the NJ Bonus tag program, which means each angler can harvest 1 bass 24-28 inches until my bonus tags run out. They are the best eating, and it is much more sustainable to let the bigger girls go. As always, we use the highest quality tackle/gear and it is “no worries” fishing.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

Received: Oct 31, 2015 9:50 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

After missing the short lived plug bite Capt Jack Shae and I ran IBSP to the bathing beach without seeing much action. While there we did read lots of bait but could not find any bass or blues. By that time tide it was right for plan C, live bait back inside. There seemed to be a real good body of slot to 30” bass holding the area we fished. Action was steady for a good hour plus when we came in leaving them biting. Here is a picture of me with a slot and over 28”. Having off this week I am stoked at the weather forecast. Looking to sail an open boat Monday with 2 spots open (3 person max). This will be a light tackle plugging and live bait trip fishing around the inlet and back. Also have the other days and magic hours trips available. Fishing is hot and weather is going to be warm so give me a call if you want the do a back bay / inlet or ocean trip.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay
October 31, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:30 PM

This morning we had a pair of nice striped bass weighed in (both not tournament fish). Chris Alex of Manahawkin weighed in a 14-9 bass which he caught off of the south end surf on bunker. Steve Waterson of Langhorne, PA weighed in a 22 pounder that he caught off of the mid-island surf on bunker at about 8:45am.

James Carriero reported on his Facebook page last night, “The blues are thick off LBI! I hammered them!” When asked about size and if we was fishing the boat or surf he commented, “Surf. 6-8 pounders. destroyed by purple bucktail. I switched to the black bomber and got them almost every cast. Caught about 15 of them. No Bass.”

John Parzych posted a photo of a linesider in the sand with a caption, “Holy crap they do exist!!! I got the skunk off my back.”

Sounds like store staffer Yonni and friends found the bass today in the boat fishing the Sea Shell Striped Bass Derby. His buddy John Caruso tagged him in a photo of a quality bass in the boat.
October 30, 2015 ——————————————————–

7:30 PM

Captain Jeff Warford just stopped in the shop and reported having a great time on the water. He said, “I headed out shortly after 1pm and quickly found the bass in 50′ of water chewing spoons. I hammered them. From three to four pm it was a wide open bite. Landed 7 and broke one off. Most in the 30-40 pound class. All SOLO!!! No one wanted to jump on so I just went for a ride. Lots of bait and big marks but nothing showing on top. There’s lots of quality fish here now! Go fish. If you want to jump on board give me a call. ~ Capt Jeff Warford, No Limit Sportfishing, 609-377-9136
4:30 PM

We received a health delivery of premium fresh bunker. Just off the boat.

12:30 PM

Finally the bait boats have been able to get out. We expect live clams and fresh bunker later today.

We got word from George Gilbert, the Nelson Avenue Beach Buggy Access is closed until further notice due to erosion.

LBI Surf FIshing Tournament News: Lots of Special Prizes starting today. If you are not signed up there is plenty of time to get in this tournament.
LBI Classic has some great things for those that catch fish. We are starting today with $200 for a bass closest to 17-7 from The Long Beach Township Retired and Former Officers in honor of A.D. Don Fillman in memory of their friend. Tomorrow 10/31 $500 is being given to the largest bass from Surf City Bait and Tackle plus there are some memorial prizes. Iggy Geneva Memorial $25. The winner to be selected from the names of all anglers entering bluefish today. $100 Trick or Treat Bass donated by Carl Gallagher Masonry in memory of his friend Bob Turanski, DMD. The bass weighing closest to 18 lbs. 13 oz. wins this prize. Sunday Nov. 1st we are giving away a surf rod donated by Folsom Corporation to someone that catches a fish. This will be done by a random pick.

October 29, 2015 ——————————————————–

4:30 PM

Well after a couple days of cranking winds and sideways rain yesterday things have cleared up. The frontal system has slid out and left us with some really nice temperatures today. With that expect the southerlies even though the forecasts are calling west. High pressure has built in and will give us a great weekend for the Sea Shell Striped Bass Derby Boat Tournament.

Currently we have a solid ESE swell in the water. This will ease throughout the day and continue to fade tomorrow. Friday’s forecast is still call for 2-3’+ so there will be some great white water for surf fishing. Those anglers fishing bait today and even tomorrow should expect the conditions will demand extra lead to hold.

Finally yesterday some bluefish came in. Hearing about them 5-50 miles offshore for weeks on end was getting old. All it took was some wind and waves.

Today there were a couple fish checked in for the Derby. Marie Rhubart weighed in a 36.5″ 15-lb 14-oz bass which was caught off of the Brant Beach surf on bunker. She is the first female angler to enter a fish this year. Jim Corson caught a 40″ 22-lb bass on bunker off of the Beach Haven Park surf.

For the latest on the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament check out the Live Results Here.

October 28, 2015 ——————————————————–

1:45 PM

Harold McMaster of Manahawkin weighed in a pair of bluefish today for the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. One 14-lbs and on 13-lb 13-oz. He caught both of them at about 2am in Barnegat Light on a plug.

Last night I put a couple hours in off of the surf. Unfortunately the fish weren’t as charged up as I expected with the blow. I did manage to release one 32″ bass and dropped two other fish. I tossed a bunch of different lures but the only thing I could get to cast and swim was the Super Strike Bottle and NorthBar’s Sporting Wood Darter. I’m looking forward to giving it another go tonight. I love tossing lures into wind and white water. ~FishHead.Greg

Received: Oct 27, 2015 8:19 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

I fished the predawn in sunrise hours Sunday and Monday mornings aboard the Lina D with Capt Dan Siegel at the helm. While I truly love guiding it is nice once in a while to be off the wheel. Thanks Dan! Fishing around the inlet both mornings, we were immediately into bass on plugs while it was still dark. The action was nothing less than epic with fish ranging from about 24” to 36”. Sunday my first fish was on my second cast and Monday it was my third. The bite lasted for about two hours both days before shutting off without notice. I never changed from a black bomber Sunday, even when the Sun came up, and landed a dozen bass. Monday I switched it up catching on black bomber again, poppers and one of my favorites BKDs. The bass were so aggressive that I actually snagged a few when they tail swiped the plug. By switching over to a single hook lead head with a BKD I still caught fish while minimizing damage to fish that were being released. Not sure how many fish I caught Monday other than it as more than the day before. It was surprised to see mullet spraying and the bass I cleaned all had at least one 6-8” snapper in its stomach. I have never seen that before but there have been so many small blues along the beach it makes sense. Attached are two pictures one of me and one of a bass with a BKD. If you are thinking about going out give me a call before the season’s over and you miss the fall run that is getting off to an amazing start.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

October 27, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:00 PM

This will be our only report for today…

There was one bass checked in for the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament at another shop. The weigh-in was from angler Rich Kindt of Manahawkin. He caught a 32.75″ 12-lb 6-oz bass at 11am on bunker off of the Beach Haven surf.

I didn’t fish last night but I did put a few hours in Sunday night. I had three separate fish roll on a metal lip right in the wash but didn’t hook any. Blake hooked and released one about 30 inches. He also had some additional bites. All on metal lip lures. ~FishHead.Greg
Captain Jeff Warford on the No Limit out of Barnegat Light stopped in the shop yesterday and reported his most recent trip (came back in on Sunday) was very good. Jeff said the eastside of the Hudson has a pile of fish. They caught 23 tuna, yellowfin/longfin mix on the day time chunk. Find the next weather window and go! Captain Jeff said he has some striper charters booked and mentioned that anyone who’s looking to fish should book as soon as possible. Prime dates are filling up. Book via email mark@bluerunner.fishing or call 201-988-5475.

The Dutchman’s tournament was this past weekend. We heard it was a great time with good food and drinks and lots of laughs. It was a successful firsty year raising money for the Maximilian Foundation. A couple request came in for the final results so here they are…. First Place was team OB1 with a 42.5” 32.65-lb bass, Second Marine Max 26.85-lb, Luckey Stripes 25.30-lbs, Fourth Sea Dog II 15-lb. There were nine bass weighed in total.

Received: Oct 27, 2015 6:53 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Open Dates: Blackfish, Seabass & Stripers

Although striper has yet to hit it’s strides black fish and seabass fishing has been solid on local wrecks and reefs with nice keepers of both. Black fishing has been very good with both quantity and quality of real “mules” testing both tackle and anglers. Just as baits have barely settled to the bottom anglers are fast into action.

Stripers are being scored as well but just not on the pace that I have grown to expect. Light tackle tactics with artificials, live bait and trolling bunker spoons have been the key to success on the early arriving migrant as well as resident bass.

I have October 30, 31, and November 1 available for either private or open charters – 7hr open boat combo trip- $175.00pp all bait, tackle and fish cleaning included.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

October 26, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:00 PM

This will be our only report for today…

Freshies bunker arrived late in the day yesterday. We currently have some primo slimy ones in the cooler for the bunker chunkers. We expect live clams soon.

Yesterday two bass were checked into the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament today. One from Dan Procida of the LBI Fishing Club. He caught a 14-lb 8-oz bass on bunker in Barnegat Light. The other was from Charlie Cirecka. Charlie caught a 32-lb 2-oz bass on bunker in Holgate. Check out the tournament website for more details… www.LBIFT.com

Store staffer Matt shared hat he got a call from a customer who bought bait and hit the south end surf. He customer mentioned that he caught a keeper bass in the teens on bunker in the afternoon.

Stanley Stienberg stopped in yesterday afternoon to let us know his new Lamiglas surf rod is awesome. While here he reported the beach was dead this morning.

Received: Oct 26, 2015 10:26 AM Subject: MATES Seabass Trip

Last Thursday I had 20 students from the MATES fishing club aboard the Carolyn Ann III for our Fall seabass trip! We had around 40 keeper seabass and numerous throwbacks. We also got covered up in some big doggies at our second wreck. Thanks to Gina and the crew of the Carolyn Ann for another awesome trip! ~ Dave Werner – MATES Fishing Club Advisor

October 25, 2015 ——————————————————–

12:30 PM

New Product Alert: Just before the weekend we received the long-awaited Jr SP Minnows. The phenomenal and yes I’ll say it revolutionary fish slaying SP now is available in a slightly smaller size. Stop in and check ’em out. We already sold about half of the delivery so if you want some act now.

Late last night store staffer Blake and I headed out and hit the surf. Put put in about three hours and got some bites. I missed my first hit but stuck the second one which turned out to be a 32″ bass. Blake also released one bass about the same size. We both fished a variety of lures but got all of our hits and hook ups on bottles. This fall the Super Strike Bottle has been great to me and for good reason. They cast great even in wind. They swim and hold in current and white water. ~FishHead.Greg

Here is a list of the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament Special Prizes for this upcoming week….

Mon Oct 26th A headlamp will be given to someone that catches a fish today. Headlamp donated by Princeton Tec.

Wed Oct 28th A two seated chair will be given Hand Store in North Beach Haven as a Special Prize today t
to someone that catches a fish. If there are no fish it will go the following Wednesday.

Thurs Oct. 29 Someone that catches a fish today will win a gift certificate
to Barry’s Do Me A Flavor located in Beach Haven.

Fri Oct 30th. The Long Beach Township Retired and Former Officers lunch group are giving $200 cash
in honor of A.D.Don Fillman to a bass closest to 17-7 in memory of their friend.

Sat Oct 31st Surf City Bait and Tackle is giving $500.00 for the heaviest striper caught today.
if no one weighs one in,— it will keeping rolling until someone weighs one in. Not a trick, just a treat! Sue & John

Sat Oct 31st $25 Iggy Geneva Memorial The winner to be selected from the names of all anglers entering bluefish today.

Sat Oct 31st $100 Trick or Treat Bass donated by Carl Gallagher Masonry in memory of his friend Bob Turanski, DMD.
The bass weighing closest to 18 lbs. 13 oz. wins this prize.

Sun Nov 1st Random pick today for a Surf Rod donate by our friends at Folsom goes to a lucky angler that catches a fish.

Here is a recent email from the state…

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife encourages all NJ commercial and recreational fishermen to attend the wind energy meeting in Point Pleasant, NJ on Wednesday, November 4 at 6 PM. The US Dept. of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has announced that 343,833 acres off the coast of New Jersey and New York will be offered for commercial wind energy development in a competitive lease sale on November 9, 2015.

New Jersey fishermen can view the invitation here: www.njfishandwildlife.com/images/marine/boemnj11-15.jpg

For background information please visit the following page:
www.boem.gov/New-Jersey/

www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-department-auction-344000-acres-offshore-new-jersey-wind-energy-development

October 24, 2015 ——————————————————–

8:30 PM

Today we had a number of anglers and volunteer judges from the 100th Anniversary ASAC Surf Tournament in the shop. The general summary is lots of small blues are on the beach chasing the rain bait. These blues are snappers up to small cocktails maxing at 15″ range. The guys also reported lots of sundials, lots of fluke but no bass. We’ll try our best to post a final recap once the tournament is concluded. Hopefully they will get some bass taped out on the beach.

We got one report from the boat today, “Rough seas in the morning. Trolled all day and only had one bite. We caught a false albie early in the day and that was it. We heard about a 20-lb fish that was caught.”

The 2015 fall sea bass opener… Andy, Chris and Kabalb (lol) were half as excited as I was to get back out in pursuit of sea bass. I had these poor people at the dock for a 5:45 departure in the pitch black. Well as we start to anchor in the dark still (I have issues) something wasn’t right. Hard northerly current straight into south wind. Ugh. Well we moved around a lot tried different depths and same results everywhere. Few keepers few throw backs. After my fifth spot fighting with current into now a stiff 20 to 25 kt wind we had 63 sea bass, 3 porgies, 4 triggerfish a keeper striper, a throwback fluke and 20 of the ever endangered spiny dogfish. Heading into the shallows and weeded through short tog to add 2 keeper tog to the bounty. Back at the dock at 3:30PM. So people say 75 keepers that’s good fishing. Well to me it was not good. I was expecting to be done by 10AM since these fish have been left alone for 2.5 months. Long day and thanks to the boys for sticking it out.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

10:45 AM

Store staffer Joe C. stopped in this morning and weighed in a nice 15-lb bass. Joe reported catching the 34″ linesider on the south end of the Island on bunker early this morning.

Received: Oct 24, 2015 10:15 AM Subject: Barnegat High School Fishing Club

I had 35 students, teachers, and parents aboard the Carolynn Ann III for our annual Fall Sea Bass trip on Friday afternoon. A big thanks to our Barnegat School District administration for helping to make this a reality every year – it’s our 8th year doing these events. We had a little rough conditions, but the kids did amazing catching over 35 keeper Sea Bass, Porgy, Triggerfish, and countless throwbacks. A few other species were caught: Porgies, Triggerfish, Dogfish (shark), Mackerel, Blackfish, and even a Summer Flounder. One of the club’s supporters and sponsors, Stan Gola of S&S Bucktails, made an appearance and donated $50 in S&S Lures for the event. Matt Erickson took home the prize with the lone Triggerfish that outweighed all other species. The crew of the Carolyn Ann III continue to do an amazing job helping out the kids, so thank you GINA and STAFF. A big thanks to the teachers and parents that attended, this is such a niche club and it helps to keep our youth involved in respecting our natural resources. They had a great time because the kids are already asking for the next trip, so I’m off to the planning board.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor, BHS Fishing Club Advisor and Captain of Reel Reaction Sportfishing

October 23, 2015 ———————————————————————–

7:00 PM

Lenny just stopped in the shop and reported lots of tog chewing up at the Inlet today. He caught 14 shorts, but no keepers. Lenny said that lots of other anglers were catching too.

Earlier today one customer stopped in the store and reported, “Lots of rain bait in the mid-island surf in the wash. There’s small blues and spike weakfish all over ’em. The bird are working them too.

Just a heads up this Sunday October 25th there is a $500 cash award special prize for the largest striped bass that tournament day.

Received: Oct 23, 2015 5:28 PM Subject: We’re Back! Just in Time. Striper Fishing on the Hi Flier

I have been missing from the reports for a while. I injured my neck in August, had a successful surgery in September, and physical rehabilitation is going well. These are “interactive trips” as I am still recovering physically. You guys will have to do any netting, gaffing, reeling in to check the lines, etc. The things I usually do. I don’t expect this to be a deterrent as it has been my experience that most people prefer to be more involved. If this is not for you, no worries, hope to see you next season.

I will start striper fishing Halloween weekend and will offer 7 day a week availability thru November into mid December for as long as the bass and weather cooperates. It should be interesting. Our neighbors to the north are already in fish. Snagging bunker, casting lures, jigging metal, and trolling have all been working on everything from 10 to 30 plus pound fish. The last few seasons have given us a shot of bunker and 20 to 30 pound bass in November. The early look appears to have more of that in store again for this Fall.
Starting Saturday, October 31, We are available Open Boat or charter every day until mid December. 7AM to 1PM or any 5 or 6 hour daylight window that you prefer. Call to reserve a date. See you on board.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

1:00 PM

It’s going to be a beautiful weekend to get out and do some fishing. The current northerly wind and with tonight’s forecast calling for a stiff north east wind, the surf is the place to be. We’ll have some white water to attract and charge up the linesiders. Saturday’s onshore south easterly wind forecast at 5-10 is good enough to let boat anglers get in on ’em. Sunday looks to be another good day. Overcast sky with a change of shower 40% aka chance of no rain 60%. Is the glass half full or half empty? The Barnegat Light Bay Bouy has settled at 57-58 degrees for the past 24-48 hours. It’s time! Let’s get out, fish and have some fun.

The Sea Bass fishing season just opened back up yesterday (Oct 22nd). It will be open for the rest of the year with a 12.5″ minimum size and a 15 fish bag limit. While we haven’t received an reports we must assume the inshore wrecks are stocked up since they haven’t been tapped since July’s two fish bag. A number of customers have ordered in advance bushells of clam so we hope to hear positive new once they go out.

October 22, 2015 ———————————————————————–

8:00 PM

New Product Alert!!! The Penn Clash 3000, 4000, 5000 and 6000 size reels arrived on Tuesday. All pre-order have shipped. We have more reels at the shop for anyone to check out. Finally there’s a fishing reel in the affordable price range with CNC machined gear. It’s about time someone went back to how things used to be made with quality and durability as the a main concern. The Penn Clash reels do not have cheap powder pressed pot metal gears like 90% of all other reels on the market. The smaller sizes have machined aluminum gears and better yet the 6000 and 8000 have brass main gears!!!

Reed Johnson stopped in the shop this morning to take care of a warranty issue with one of his recently purchased reel. While in the shop he reported catching some quality bass last night. Reed said he was fishing live eels with a buddy in the bay on the south end, “First drift I got a nice one. Second drift my buddy got one. Third drift I hooked another good one and my spool, main shaft and all, goes flying off. The reel just blew up!”

We got Reed squared away with a brand new reel. He will be back on the water tonight back on the bass again. You don’t find this service at just any tackle shop. Just saying. Thanks to all of our customer, some young and some 50+ years loyal. We appreciate your business. ~FishHead.Greg

Received: Oct 22, 2015 8:55 AM Subject: Where to surf fish on LBI?

Hello there, I usually travel to IBSP during this time of year to try my luck on the surf. I’m an avid surf fisherman. I’m thinking I could save a bit of time if I were able to find a decent spot on LBI, which for me is not as far to travel as IBSP. Only problem is I am unfamiliar with the island. I do not have four wheel drive, so a beach-buggy pass would not be helpful. What I am looking for is a safe place to park & cart my stuff onto the beach. Any tips? Appreciate your help. Kind regards, Matt

Hi Matt and thanks for the email. You’ve come to the right place. I’m here to help.

LBI has lots of areas with public walk on access. With that said I suggest fishing old beaches (beaches that were not recently replenished ). The new beaches have been really weird (IMO) but could produce. The storms in late September and early October set up some great fishing structure along the entire stretch of LBI but specifically on the north end and south end.

I suggest fishing Barnegat Light or Loveladies on the north end or Beach Haven or Holgate on the south. These areas have numerous sections of beautiful water and better yet have recently produced fish. For a number of reasons I can not provide specific streets. However I can tell you that if you pull up any random street or two (in the towns I mentioned) and give it a check you’ll find a prime spot to fish nearby very easily with little scouting needed.

Best of luck fishing. Let me know how you make out.

~FishHead.Greg

Received: Oct 22, 2015 8:01 AM Subject: BHCFA Report

Although a real strong striped bass bite has not yet materialized off Beach Haven, the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are being kept busy with other targets as they await the linesiders.

There is a constant stream of baitfish passing by Long Beach Island making their way south. Right on their heels, and often in the midst, is an array of smallish fish feeding on these baitfish. The easiest way to locate these feeding fish is to look for the bird play.

Captain Carl Sheppard of the “Starfish” reports he fished recently with Nicholas Perello, one of the Association’s junior mates, and his dad. Just off the Beach Haven water tower they ran into a school of fish under working birds. They caught unlimited spike weakfish and snapper bluefish casting into the boil. If they retrieved their jigs slowly they caught weakfish while using a faster retrieve produced bluefish. Also appearing at times cutting through the schools of shiners was a school of little tunny. They were up on top pushing water and making white water in their feeding frenzy. Nicholas put a diamond jig right in front of a false albacore which he hooked and played right to the boat. There was also a large bluefin tuna feeding in the bait but showed no interest in their lines.

Thursday, October 22, marked the re-opening of the black sea bass season. Since the season has been closed for several months, the first few weeks should produce some excellent results around inshore wrecks and artificial reefs.

Several of the captains of the BHCFA have received a supply of slot fish tags from the state for their customers to use. They should help in bringing some striper fillets home for dinner. Captain Carl notes he can’t wait for the bass to arrive so he can start to use his tags up.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

8:00 AM

We’ve got a solid supply of fresh bunker for the chunkers and live greenies for the toggers. While baiting the surf has been on the slow side the tog bite in the inlet has been steady. Reports about keepers have been few but there’s a lot of fish biting. We’ve heard a number of customers report having fun with the “jersey tarpon” (herring) on light tackle.

October 21, 2015 ———————————————————————–

8:00 PM

We received a delivery of primo fresh bunkers late in the afternoon. Lots of anglers were buying buy the dozen so there’s not telling how long our supply will last. We expect more tomorrow so we should be good.

Fishing is getting better everyday as we roll in to prime time fall fishing here on LBI. We expect lots of positive reports the next couple of days and this weekend. Best of luck to everyone fishing!

10:30 AM

Finally I hit pay dirt! After way too many fishless and sleepless nights I finally broke out of my slump. I headed out late last night and put in some time. About two hours into plugging the surf I smelt bunker near a good body of water. Fortunately Lou (the shop’s Van Staal Reel Technician and plug builder extraordinar) gave me a monster pikie plug earlier in the week and I had it with me. I clipped it on and within five cast I had a bump. A couple casts later, a health 10-15 pound bass hooked by the skin of his lip. A few more cast later another bass but it shook the hook seconds into the fight. At that point I was stoked! Finally, my drag hasn’t pulled since I left Montauk (first week of October). I thought about calling it a night, but the wind died and the tide just started going out. I told myself I’d put in another hour. Within 15 minutes there’s an explosion 30 yards out on the pikie. The fish went absolutely bananas on the surface. After two good hard line screaming runs it was up on top splashing like wild again. I though I had a monster. It turns out after some tug of war, it’s a 42″ linesider with a pikie jammed sideways in it’s wide open mouth. Once landed, the fish didn’t move. It was beat dead tired just like I was, so my first harvest of the 2015 fall came home with me. I’m looking forward to some general tso bass, ceviche, and some fish cakes. On my way home I stopped to see Sue and John at Surf City Bait and Tackle and checked in the bass for the Derby, 28-lbs 1-oz. Thanks to Lou for the plug!!! I’m gonna need some more of them. Haha ~FishHead.Greg

October 20, 2015 ———————————————————————–

3:30 PM

Just a heads up our bunkers guys did not fish yesterday or today. We are currently sold out of fresh bunker and do not expect more today. We have our fingers crossed for tomorrow. If they fish tomorrow morning we would see the delivery later in the afternoon/evening.

11:30 AM

Captain Jeff Warford on the No Limit got on ’em again yesterday. He went right back to where he found the bass Sunday. This time he spooned up three bass all in the 30-40 pound class. Jeff said, “We caught all of the bass in 50′ of water but we were marking all of the bait shallower. The ocean temp was 61.3 degree. Yesterday at the same area it was 62.8. It’s time and they are here!” Anyone looking to head out and fish with Jeff aboard the No Limit can get in on the action by calling 201-988-5475 or you can book via email mark@bluerunner.fishing

Received: Oct 20, 2015 9:07 AM Subject: Report

Haven’t seen any news on the surf. Any news or predictions for surf fishing this fall? ~ Robert Gernert

While the surf hasn’t been hot with action there are fish around and more are coming everyday. Boat reports are very positive with consistent talk of quality fish. These reports from boat anglers are always a great indication of what’s in our local waters. Surf anglers who ignore any and all boat reports are missing out on valuable intel. The boats see them first and have the ability to track ’em down.

As of today, Day 11 of the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament there are three bass on the board. Two of which in the thirty pound class. Looking back at last year, no fish were caught in the first week or first segment. We are off to a good start. Anyone who has been up on the beach knows there are very few anglers fishing. When you drive from Ship Bottom to Loveladies and only pass three trucks you know there’s little angler presence. That will change this weekend when the ASAC’s 100th Anniversary Surf Fishing Tournament comes to town October 23-25th.

With lots of positive reports all fall from locations north (NY, RI, MA) I’m stoke for our run. The question is, does the migration come down in tight to the beach or does the majority stay offshore in deeper water? Only time will tell.

The ocean temp yesterday was 61 degrees which is cooler than it was previously. We’ve finally got this cold snap to bring our back bay water temps and air temps down. Things are looking good. The meat of our season is always Halloween to Thanksgiving. While there’s nothing wrong with waiting for the thick of the run to tee-off, most run the risk of missing out on some fun fishing opportunities. It really comes down to getting a line wet and enjoying some time fishing. I’ve put in a serious amount of hours the past five nights and I’ve got little to show for it. However, when they move into the areas I’ve been scouting and fishing I have confidence I’ll get ’em good. I hope everyone else does too. Best of luck fishing this fall!

~FishHead.Greg

October 19, 2015 ———————————————————————–

10:30 AM

Captain Jeff Warford on the No Limit fished out of Barnegat Light late in the day yesterday. He trolled up one classy bass on a bunker spoon.

Received: Oct 18, 2015 10:10 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Not much has changed since last week as the ocean is holding onto 63-64 degrees. Still some bass the be had on live bait when the tide is right around but not the showings of a solid migration into our area. More snappers, small blues, whatever you what to call them, then I have seen in a very long time. All along the beach, 8” to not even a pound bluefish seem to be everywhere. Hopefully tonight’s freeze will mix things up and send the bass our way. Saturday morning’s trip with Dan Seagull of Waretown had the Debbie M running and gunning off IBSP to connect with the false albacore that seemed to show up overnight. There were small schools all over the place blasting through rainfish (aka bay anchovy). Many times we had them boiling right next to the boat. When I get a chance I will upload some of the video I took. As usual when the albies are feeding on tiny rainfish they were tough to connect with. We did bring several to the boat for a quick release. We scored best using plain AVA007s casted into or in front of the schools. It has been several years since we have had a good showing a false albacore along the beach. I hope they stay awhile because they are the hardest fighting that we have along the Jersey Shore. On light tackle they are a world class fish and if you have never experience the screaming runs of a fat albert you don’t know what you are missing. Attached is a picture of one of Dan’s fish. If you want to give them a try give me a call.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

October 18, 2015 ———————————————————————–

8:30 AM

Rob Vallone just put a 43.5″ 31-lb 9-oz bass on the board for the LBI Surf Fishing Tournament. Rob caught his fish on a black Super Strike Bottle Plug late last night off of the Loveladies surf.

8:00 AM

More reports of quality bass from the boat yesterday. Lots of guys were in the shop buying snags, spoons and umbrella rigs. We are fully stock and ready to rock for the striper run! The 9’er umbrella rigs have been in demand.

Our bunker man said LOTS of small bait and albies everywhere airing out. One customer reported bunker off of the mid-island surf just outside of casting range.

Rob Vallone caught a nice bass off of the surf late last night. More details coming once the fish is weighed in.

Save The Date – The Dutchman’s Brauhaus and the Quelle 1st Annual Maximilian Foundation’s Striped Bass Bash & Fish Fry. The all boat tournament and fish fry is next weekend! Mandatory Captain’s Meeting is Friday October 23 at 7pm at the Dutchman’s Brauhaus 2500 East Bay Ave., Cedar Bonnet Island Lines In: Saturday 10/24 at 4:00AM Lines Out: Sunday 10/25 at 12:00PM Weigh in Saturday 2-5PM & Sunday 12-2PM
Fish Fry: Sunday at 1:00PM then Awards at 2:30PM

October 17, 2015 ———————————————————————–

2:30 PM

This morning Christian Martin of Beach Haven weighed in a 32-1/4″ 11-lb 2-oz bass. He caught it last night on a plug fishing the south end of the Island.

At 10am Paul Bandini reported, “False albies hit the beach in Surf City this morning! I landed one and lost another. They are were working well beyond the outer bar now.”

7:00 AM

Out front yesterday there were scattered bird plays with albies, small blues and spike weakies eating small bait (bay anchovies and spearing). Boat anglers casting small slender metals had fun. Surf anglers got into them on the state’s northern beaches

With the recent chilly nights and these brisk morning it’s starting to feel a lot more like fall. We are slowly transitioning out of summertime fishing. The water temperatures are beginning to cool and finally we have some chilly night. While waiting for the mass migration, most anglers are targeting bass in the backwaters. The flats, channels and sod banks are producing on live bait and anglers are also catching fishing lures.

This week northern Jersey anglers had a push of quality bass on bunker. Recently local boat anglers started picking fish on the troll spooning. Look for bass fishing to improve as more head our way.

The surf has had a slow pick of fish. Some inconsistent reports from anglers fishing bait. I’ve fished lures the past three days and don’t have much to show for it. Last night at sunset I had some boils on my lure but nothing came tight. Store staffer Blake hooked and released one. He too had a number of fish follow and boil.

October 16, 2015 ———————————————————————–

11:30 AM

Yesterday evening Store staffer Blake hit the surf for a short while before dark. He reported very small bait was present n the wash. He managed one schoolie bass which hit right at the lip of the beach.

Some local boats had bass spooning off of IBSP yesterday. One customer in the shop caught three in the morning hours. Wednesday there was action in the northern area of the jersey coast. Then Thursday fish in the same area and also further south. Things are shaping up. Make sure you are on the water and get in on the fun when it happens.

Some great news on the striped bass populations. On October 13th, Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources announced their young of the year report aka juvenile index. This year is the eighth highest on record. Virginia’s survey also showed an abundance of juvenile striped bass. To read more about … news.maryland.gov/dnr/2015/10/13/maryland-striped-bass-juvenile-index-is-eighth-highest-on-record-2/

Received: Oct 15, 2015 3:08 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

There have been some striped bass caught in the waters around Beach Haven, but the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association have been scoring in various ways.

Captain Carl Sheppard had the “Star Fish out for an afternoon on the bay recently and his crew found some good action on blowfish while also pulling in some black sea bass, porgies, and even a baby amberjack. Captain Carl attended a meeting with the Coast Guard recently learning about the latest equipment requirements and boarding rules. One of the key new pieces he was advised to consider is to assure the emergency signal of his marine radio is hooked up to our GPS to assist the CG in identifying where we are if an emergency occurs.

Captain John Lewis of the “Insatiable” reports went fishing with Rich Perrelo for tilefish. Captain John said this was his first experience with tilefish and mate Nick was calling the shots. They put 2 pounds of lead on to hold bottom. The fishing started slow but after a few drifts things picked up. They started catching as the wind went up to the point where they could not hold bottom and the bite ended. They ended the day with 9 blue lines and one golden tile.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

October 15, 2015 ———————————————————————–

11:30 AM

Crystal clear dark night slowly waxing off the new moon, slight chill to the air, an easy westerly breeze, just enough wave action for pretty white water… yet another zippo in the log book. Everything felt right but no bite. Hoping for better luck next session. It’s time! ~FishHead.Greg

A customer in the shop yesterday reported a great bass on bunker bite off of the northern jersey beaches. He mentioned it was bonkers, “Lots of bunker with quality bass. Almost thought it was spring time.”

Store staffer Max and Nick fished the Inlet rocks yesterday on their day off. Both reported having fun catching shorts but no keepers.

October 14, 2015 ———————————————————————–

2:00 PM

Yesterday, store staffer Nick spoke with a customer buying fresh bunker that was willing to share a report. The customer reported one small bass and a couple blues on the mid-island surf using bait.

I went for a walk on the surf last night around the high tide. I fished a couple different sections of great looking water, but no one was home. ~FishHead.Greg

Store staffer Max was on the water this morning and released a bass fishing live bait.

We received a report from an angler fishing out front along the beaches via boat, “Loads of bait and small blues and spike weakies on ’em. No Bass. If the water was cleaner there would have to be albies in the mix!”

October 13, 2015 ———————————————————————–

12:30 PM

We just received a delivery of live green crabs, live surf clams and fresh bunker. Stop on by as soon as possible if you want fresh/live bait. It should last through the day but we expect it to sell out fast.

10:00 AM

Which do you want first the good news or the bad? The bad news is green crabs are and will be very hard to get. Word has it there’s a number of reasons but the fact of the matter is the crabs are not potting well. Due to the shortage in supply, the price at all sources have went sky high. Only time will tell if this settles out. The good news… the tog are snapping! As an alternate bait try squid, clam, muscle or try your hand at catching some crabs.

There’s been chatter of some fun fishing around. One customer in the shop yesterday purchased some small plugs are reported hammering the schoolies in the bay. He also mentioned there was lots of bait present and some small blues.

The surf has been slow but it has been proven, there’s fish here. There’s schoolies but also some classy fish too. Merle Van Liere’s 34-lb 45″ bass which was caught off of the south end surf on Saturday is just the beginning. There was an even bigger fish caught locally by Kevin Morrison, a 48.75-lb bass on a live eel kayaking in the Barnegat Bay behind IBSP Saturday.

Received: Oct 12, 2015 10:34 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

After two solid weeks of staying in port due to weather I took the Debbie M out Sunday morning for a fall scouting run. At first light I plugged some prime fall real estate to no avail. After that I ran the beach and found some snapper blues and spike weakfish, and bait. And do I mean bait! From Barnegat Inlet to just passed the bathing beach at IBSP I marked bait the entire way just off the beach to about 50’. Looks like the bait fish really pushed in after the recent blow. I was able to confirm bay anchovies in some places but many of the bait marks on my screen looked like sand eels. Let’s hope. On my way back I gave the inlet area one more shot with the tide getting ready to go slack high. First bait down did not last long as it was immediately inhaled by a 28” bass. After that I released several more slot sized fish before tying back up by 9. Not a bad way to kick off the fall run. Ocean was around 64 degrees and the bay just slightly lower. Still lots of peanut bunker in the back lagoons. Should see a push of migrating fish any day now. Are you ready? I am.

Still booking magic hour trips on weekdays and regular trips on weekends. In the near future I have this Thursday and Friday magic hours and Saturday open I am booked Sunday. I do have the first week of November off this year which and that week is usually a prime week for the fall run.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Lighthouse Sportfishing 609-548-2511 You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

October 11, 2015 ———————————————————————–

7:00 PM

Today was a beautiful and crazy day. We got cleaned out. Clams, bunker and live greenies all flew out the door. We expect to have more coming tomorrow (Monday) but it will not be until mid day or later. Bunker will be late in the day.

Received: Oct 11, 2015 5:39 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

Well, it’s slowly coming together regarding water clarity, temps, and bait. I was out with Dad (Mike) who recently retired for a quick afternoon Thursday scout trip, and as we went through the DCC cut I saw that the water was very dirty knowing that it probably would not be good. We worked the inlet jetty and took a ride along the beach and 3-mile line to Seaside with no signs of life. Even though the water was dirty, we marked occasional marks of baitfish, but there was nothing on them. Once it cleans up, there should be some fish around.

On Friday, I had the pleasure of being invited to speak for the members of Village Harbor Fishing Club on Fall Striped Bass Fishing. Thank you very much to Village Harbor Fishing Club for giving me the opportunity as a guest speaker.

On Sunday, I had Guy Critelli of Runamede, NJ, Cameron Gray of Virginia, and Rich Barnett of Perkasie, PA on a 5hr Bay & Inlet Charter targeting Striped Bass and Blowfish. We started working the inlet and some bird action outside which were only small bluefish, so we moved back inside. We were able to get into a nice bluefish, and also a Striped Bass on live bait, which was kept through our extra 25 tags via the NJ Striped Bass Bonus Program. The crew had another run-off, and then we worked our way to the back were we targeted October Blowfish. The trio kept 12 decent sized blowfish for the table. The guys had a lot of fun, and had me in literally tears with some of the hysterics, great job and good fun, looking forward to seeing them on future trips.

Since I’m teaching, and weekends are the mainstay regarding charters, so please call if interested in getting out. I will be running weekends from October through December for Striped Bass. WEEKDAY RARITY – I will have a rare week of weekday charters available from November 2nd through 6th wide OPEN, and I’m planning on running 2 charters per day for that week. As always only we use the highest quality tackle and gear. Again, we have been given 25 Bonus Tags through the NJ Striper Bonus Tag Program – and when there gone, there gone. All fish-cleaning, ice, live-bait, etc is provided (no extra fees), and we always use trolling as a last resort tactic. If interested, please either book through the website or call my cell.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

October 10, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:00 PM

The LBI Surf Fishing Tournament kicked off this morning with its annual Surf Fishing Seminar. There was a great turn out of anglers, all eager to learn. Thanks to Team Mullet for setting it up and offering lots of valuable surf fishing info, most of which took years to acquire.

The tog bite up at the Inlet is rock solid. Get live greenies and go!

Just like the air temp, the water temp is getting away from summer and closer to its fall position. We had a summer full of very warm surf temps. On October 6th is came all the way down to 58-61 degree range and now has settled in around the 62-64 degree range. Look for that to slowly creep down in the coming days and weeks. Fall is here! Fish On! ~FishHead.Greg

October 9, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Illex Argentinus Squid – Hook Baits

Fisherman’s Headquarters has a limited amount of Argentine Illex Squid in 22-lb flat packs remaining in stock. These are the hot Swordfish and Bigeye hook baits used by the Commercial Long Line Boats and Bluewater Captains. If interested, please call our retail store at 609.494.5739. You should ask for item # 417 and these are selling at a $36.99 per flat price. When sold out you may need to await a possible future delivery which may not happen this year. Sales may be limited to those captains who act first. If you have a need, don’t wait and miss out!

Received: Oct 9, 2015 3:47 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Sunday stripers and tog!!

Today [ Friday] We had a brisk bite with light tackle stripers boxing 2 keepers, we also lost a freight train that broke us off before we could stop him from chaffing us off. A couple more missed opportunities before the tide went slack and killed the action.

Hoping that the bite would pick back up on the tide change was unfortunately the same time strong SW winds started howling and hampering our efforts.

I have this Sunday available 6am-11am for open or private charter. We will be targeting stripers and tog . All bait ,tackle, ice and cleaning included – $150.00pp .

Just a reminder that Reel Fantasea is participating in the Striped Bass Bonus Program which allows all anglers an additional slot fish 24- to less than 28.

Face Book friends – We now have a “reviews” for those who have fished with me before and would like to add your own review.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

October 8, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Oct 8, 2015 1:54 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

After almost two weeks of strong northeast winds accompanied by extremely high tides and high ocean wave, the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can finally start to think about fishing again.

Prior to the bad weather, the offshore tuna bite had been very respectable. It remains to be seen whether that bite is still the same, but some of the captains hope to find out shortly.

In other news, the fall season for black sea bass will be re-opening on Thursday, October 22, with a 15 fish per day limit. Since this fishery has been severely restricted since June, this action should be very productive on local wrecks and artificial reef sites.

Now that the weather has started feeling more like true fall weather, the water temperatures are dropping, and that means the arrival of striped bass. A few keepers have been caught on the beaches of Long Beach Island and quite a few smaller, “schoolie” bass have been landed in the bay waters. As the bigger bass arrive, there will be action in the bay waters drifting live baits and also chumming with clam and bunker. In the ocean, the bite will be active for boats trolling bunker spoons and Stretches. It remains to be seen if there will be a “snag and drop” action with the schools of bunker, and later in the fall the jigging action will begin on the inshore lumps.

Additional information on the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be obtained by visiting www.BHCFA.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted October 6, 2015 – Matt at Fisherman’s Headquarters reported a decent green crab crunch by blackfish along the South Jetty at Barnegat Inlet through Wednesday, but it will not be until probably mid-week that the chew resumes. The triggers have pulled out, as there was no chatter about them from the hole probing rock hoppers. A smattering of stripers to 15 pounds were smacking at SP Minnows, Bombers and poppers just before the storm roared in, and Matt expects the striped bass bite to hit high gear as more bait moves through as water temperatures continue to slide.

October 6, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Greg’s Report from Montauk…

Bunker, snappers and spearing in the wash, ducks chewing mullet and sandeels, gulls over juvenile weakfish and there are blowfish too… The amount of life here in Montauk is amazing. Amongst all of the bait and big water there’s great fishing with each tide produced dozens of fish (quality striped bass and bluefish) for me and fellow anglers who are all hooking up. Montauk has been on fire! What an epic ride it’s been making dreams come true.

With what’s happening here, I’m looking forward to a phenomenal fall on LBI. Tight lines.

~ FishHead.Greg

“HOT Item” New! Daiwa SASD Saltiga Star Drag Reel.
Currently in stock are the Daiwa SASD15H Right-Hand and SASD15HL Left-Hand star drag reels. A High Speed 6.4:1 gear ratio design incorporated with Daiwa’s “Spool Lock Mechanism” that protects gears during engagement. Comes with custom EVA handle knob. Built with Daiwa’s “Ultimate Carbon Drag – UTD” and Dual Length Handle. This Slatiga is made using a Precision Machined Aluminum One-Piece Frame, Side-Plate and Spool. All this in a compact body design. Rated to hold about 330 yards of 40-lb braided line or about 250 yards of 20-lb monofilament line. These reels feature 9 bearing; 1 MagSealed BB, 7 CRBB & 1 RB.
(Question: What is a Daiwa’s MagSealed Ball Bearing? Answer: It’s a Daiwa bearing design which uses a magnetic oil that bridges the gap between the inner and outer bearing races to help keep the elements out.)

October 4, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Oct 4, 2015 8:21 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Sportfishing

Well, there’s not too much to report this week other than wind and rain. I pulled the boat over the week to do some routine maintenance, but we are back in the water during this week to be ready for the fall Striper run. This season we are outfitted with the top of the line E6X G. Loomis rods and Quantum BOCA reels, in addition I’m aim to film most of our future Striped Bass trips with our “new” Go Pro camera. Check out the weekly report on On The Water as I’m the South Jersey online fishing reports writer and report on fishing from Brielle to Cape May – Striper season is definitely in the air.

This coming Friday I will be hosting a Fall Striped Bass seminar for the Village Harbor Fishing Club in Manahawkin, and during the weekend will be out on charters as long as the weather cooperates.

The area’s docks and piers have had many blackfish and stripers via night to offer, so now is the time to get out and try.

Since I’m teaching, and weekends are the mainstay regarding charters. I will have a rare week of weekday charters available from November 2nd through 6th wide OPEN, and I’m planning on running 2 charters per day for that week. I will be running weekends from October through December for Striped Bass and as always only use the highest quality tackle and gear. All fish-cleaning, ice, live-bait, etc is provided (no extra fees), and we always use trolling as a last resort tactic. If interested, please either book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ), or call my cell 609-290-7709.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

Received: Oct 4, 2015 11:27 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters

North East winds continue to hammer the coastal communities up and down the eastern seaboard stacking high tides and causing local flooding along low lying streets and properties. Damage and loss of property reminiscent of Super Storm Sandy has taken place albeit on a much smaller scale.

Due to the extended NE winds checking dock lines, bilges, stocking/feeding bait pens and fine tuning tackle for the upcoming fall season is about the only fishing/boating activity for about the last 2 weeks but the extended forecast is looking favorable for some bay/inlet by mid next week and with water temps dipping into the ideal low sixties, I am anxiously waiting to “test the waters”.

Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters will be participating in the NJ Striper “Slot/Bonus” Program. Meaning anglers will be able to keep not only- 1 striper 28″-43″, 1 striper 43″ or greater but also keep 1 additional slot fish of 24 – to less than 28″ [until quota is filled… there is no order to which fish have to be caught] which gives us plenty of opportunity to keep some fish for the cooler.

George Poveromo’s Saltwater Seminar Series returns to New Jersey on February 20th being held In AC. I am honored to have been selected as a 3x returning Faculty Member so come out and enjoy the day to talk everything saltwater fishing! There are also lots of free giveaways all day long in the way of tackle and boating supplies!

I will be fishing this Friday open or private charters bay/inlet on both 6am-11am and 2pm-7pm and will be targeting stripers with both live and artificials. $150.00pp minimum 3 and max 4 anglers per trip includes all bait and tackle. Pretty sure we should be seeing solid light tackle action after this system winds down.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

October 2, 2015 ———————————————————————–

3:30 PM

Lenny was just in the shop a little while ago. He picked up a bag of just about the last of the live green crabs and headed up to the Inlet to give it a try. We’ll have a report later today.

Chris from Howell gave us a report from midweek… “I fished the Inlet Jetty two nights and had fish. All together four bass up to 28″ and 13 blues 4-6-lb class. The wind was cranking but the fish were on the chew.”

Store Staffer Blake and I just returned home from a two week Montauk lower lot living extravaganza. Another great year in our log books! It seems everytime we go, everyone complains about how slow the fishing is yet we always seem to put in long hours and seek out great fish. Hammering fish is an understatement. While not classy fish it was tremendous fun. We caught mostly dinks and schoolies but did have some bass in the mid to high teens as well as a handful of juicy bluefish pushing 10-12 pounds. The heavy winds and big water full of bait was a blessing. Thanks to all the lot lizards for their hospitality. Until next year! ~ FishHead.Greg

If predictions hold true Joaquin should be heading away from LBI but there is still going to be that Northeaster affecting us. Below are times of tide for the next few days. Locally at the shop in Ship Bottom we saw only typical minor flooding from this afternoons bayside 2:30 PM high tide. The streets around the store were never barricaded closed like so often happens. Not sure the remainder of the island did as well. There are so many spots now a days that flood on any high tide with a little rain. Gale Winds & Coastal Flood Warnings are in effect through Sunday afternoon which makes matters worse. The watering holes and hopefully restaurants on the island that are dry should be busy tonight. We’re here to help you gear up for future better weather. It’s a good day to check all those hooks and fishing line for replacement. Oh yea, we do have plenty of rain gear, boots, gloves and waders too.

Standard Predicted Times of Tides along SHIP BOTTOM, NJ
(Actual times will be affected by winds)

DAY
DATE
OCEAN SIDE
BAY SIDE

Friday
10/2/2015

1:58 am – High
Friday
10/2/2015
4:51 am – Low
8:55 am – Low
Friday
10/2/2015
11:17 am – High
2:23 pm – High
Friday
10/2/2015
5:35 pm – Low
9:39 pm – Low
Friday
10/2/2015
11:48 pm – High

Saturday
10/3/2015

2:54 am – High
Saturday
10/3/2015
5:43 am – Low
9:47 am – Low
Saturday
10/3/2015
12:12 pm – High
3:18 pm – High
Saturday
10/3/2015
6:33 pm – Low
10:37 pm – Low

Sunday
10/4/2015
12:46 am – High
3:52 am – High
Sunday
10/4/2015
6:43 am – Low
10:47 am – Low
Sunday
10/4/2015
1:09 pm – High
4:15 pm – High
Sunday
10/4/2015
7:38 pm – Low
11:42 pm – Low

Monday
10/5/2015
1:45 am – High
4:51 am – High
Monday
10/5/2015
7:48 am – Low
11:52 am – Low
Monday
10/5/2015
2:07 pm – High
5:13 pm – High
Monday
10/5/2015
8:42 pm – Low

Tuesday
10/6/2015

12:46 am – Low
Tuesday
10/6/2015
2:46 am – High
5:52 am – High
Tuesday
10/6/2015
8:53 am – Low
12:57 pm – Low
Tuesday
10/6/2015
3:08 pm – High
6:14 pm – High
Tuesday
10/6/2015
9:39 pm – Low

Ocean waters data information along New Jersey Coast created by Stevens Institute of Technology can be viewed by clicking…
hudson.dl.stevens-tech.edu/maritimeforecast/maincontrol.shtml
To view data for all areas that Stevens Institute of Technology monitors …
hudson.dl.stevens-tech.edu/maritimeforecast/
…NOTE: You will need to set the Region and Parameters that you wish to view.

September 30, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted September 29, 2015 – Jonnie “Got One Onee” at Fisherman’s Headquarters was on counter duty after a tuna stint offshore and gave a local waters report of big numbers of blowfish bayside and also enough good size weakfish along the sedge banks to get the tacit attention of area sharpies that are working bucktails and small plugs long after the sun has set. Stripers were being caught with eels, plugs and bucktails from the top of Barnegat Inlet down to the lighthouse, but with this week’s forecast on top of last week’s big swells, there is no timeframe for the bite to resume. A few false albacore were being caught with metals north of the inlet when they came within casting range of the Island Beach State Park sand soldiers.

“HOT Item” Shimano Stradic FK reels!…

The Shimano Stradic FK reels utilize Shimano’s latest technology while drawing on ways of the past have been trickling in. These reels feature Shimano’s Hagane design concept and are for anglers who demand durability and quality. Redesigned for 2016 the Shimano Stradic FK offering a more balanced, more efficient and most of all the strongest Stradic ever! Every part has been designed to improve the anglers experience on the water.

The largest Shimano Stradic which is the STc5000XGFK arrived. This will make the ST-FK series completely available. To see the Shimano Stradic ST-FK reel series online click…
www.fishermansheadquarters.com/shimano-stradic-fk.htm

To see our entire line of Shimano reels click…
www.fishermansheadquarters.com/shimano-reels.htm

“HOT Item” Illex Argentinus Squid – Hook Baits

Fisherman’s Headquarters has acquired a limited amount of Argentine Illex Squid in 22-lb flat packs. These are the hot Swordfish and Bigeye hook baits. (Typically used by the Long Line Boats) If interested, please call our retail store at 609.494.5739 and get your name, quantity desired, credit card payment information and phone number on the pre-paid reserved list. If your name is not on the list you may need to await a possible future delivery. You should ask for item # 417 and these are selling for a $36.99 per flat price. Sales may be limited to those captains who pre-ordered. Don’t miss out!

September 26, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 26, 2015 7:20 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Weakfish Cooperate!

A solid afternoon of light tackle of weakfish was had by anglers aboard the Reel Fantaea in the calm protected waters of Barnegat Bay even though NE winds continue to howl!

Puppy drum, blowfish, hickory shad, snappers… also spiced the catch as well. At times we had visible free jumping and swirling fish working our chum slick , and the best part of it all was that we had it all to our selves!

Even though NE winds are continued to howl we will be fishing tomorrow Sunday 27th targeting the same light tackle action. $125.00 pp , included everything you’ll need to enjoy your morning out on the water. 7am-12pm. Come join the fun!

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

September 24, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted September 22, 2015 in The Fisherman Magazine – “Some good fluke fishing going on at The Tires, and guys are getting nice size keepers with 2- to 3-ounce bucktails tipped with Gulp!, and whole squid is also catching fish out there, “reports Steve at Fisherman’s Headquarters who says it’s a “Bass on top, fluke on bottom” scenario in Barnegat Inlet, with short and keeper flatties grabbing finger mullet and schoolie and legal length linesiders to 39 inches doing the same, the latter at the tip of the south jetty. A lot of 13-inch and 14-inch blackfish are pecking at green crabs along the jetty rocks, and occasionally a keeper gets plucked out. Frying size croakers are nipping Fishbites and bloodworms along the island sands, but the kingfish have been scarce. Bayside there are a few keeper flatfish to 20 inches being caught around Morrison’s and these are whacking half-ounce jigheads sweetened with the 3-inch and 4-inch white or pink Gulp! Swimming Mullet. There are short stripers to 25 inches mugging poppers and swimming plugs after dark along the sedge banks. Crabbing is still decent in spots but overall it’s beginning to slow.

September 23, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 23, 2015 9:52 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

Strong northeast winds appear to be putting an end to the summer flounder season in Beach Haven. Although the season does not officially close until Sunday, September 26, it will be virtually impossible to get out and fish the inshore reefs where the fish are right now. Further from shore, the offshore tuna bite, especially for large bigeyes, is especially hot when the boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can get out there.

Captain Lindsay Fuller took the John Barry party along with regular Ralph Hibbs to the Hudson on Friday for an overnighter on the “June Bug.” They left the dock about 9:45 a.m. and encountered fantastic sea conditions. The weather was sunny and warm with just a little roll in the ocean. They started chunking about 2:30 p.m. very near the 100 Squared in the Hudson. Less than 15 minutes after starting, a fish took a bait close to the boat and took off like a freight train. The fish went through four anglers but after a long fight a 190 bigeye tuna was gaffed and brought into the boat. Later before dark they picked up a pair of longfin tuna in the 35-pound range. Just before dark another large fish screamed line and a 180-pound bigeye went into the fish box. There were bites throughout the night but no more fish were solidly hooked. Captain Lindsay reported he marked a solid mass of bait between 20 and 60 feet down, it seemed unusual not to have more predation of that bait mass. There were easily 100 boats within view. The drift was about 0.7 knots and the water temps were 74.8 for most of the trip. The water was nice and clear.

Before the northeast winds arrived, Captain Ray Lopez brought out the Altieri family from Annandale, NJ on the “Miss Liane” to celebrate young Aiden Altieri’s eighth birthday. Fishing several local wrecks, they caught a wide variety of species including non-stop action on fluke and sea bass. Papa Altieri iced a nice sized porgy. It was a fun filled trip for everyone aboard.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net.

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

Received: Sep 23, 2015 8:03 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – 3 spots available 2pm – 7pm

3 spots available for Friday afternoon 09/25/2015 bay/inlet 2pm – 7pm charter. Targeting everything that swims in our bay/inlet – stripers, blues, weakfish, puppy drum,… etc. All bait, tackle, ice, rods and cleaning included – $125.00/angler

It’s that time of year that you just don’t know what the next bite could be! Come join the fun!

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

September 22, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 22, 2015 7:09 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters

Sundays fishing saw a mix of fish that included aerial antics from albies, bonito, bluefish and even jack crevalle! At times the marauding denizens had beaten the water surface into a white froth from chasing fleeing bait fish. A well placed cast into the fray was key to success with the pelagics or just working the lower depths to score bluefish and jack crevalle. The school of bait and game fish was 1/2 mile long just south of the inlet under vast bird play. Multiple times aerial free jumping fish were within a few feet of the boat!

With a persistent onshore flow looking to keep us penned up in the bay over the next few days we will be targeting the mix of species in the more protected waters of the bay/inlet. Weakfish, kingfish, stripers, puffers, puppy drum and blues are just a few of the usual suspects.

Open or private charter available for Friday September 25th 6:30am – 11:30am and 2pm – 7pm and Sunday 7am-12pm.

Come to join the fun and experience the variety that is currently on hand in the calm protected waters of Barnegat bay. We are fast approaching the Fall migration so don’t wait, book your preferred date soon!

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

September 21, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 21, 2015 10:10 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Hear that? That is the sound of the fat lady singing to the end of our 2015 fluke season. (2015 NJ Fluke season’s last day is Saturday, 09/26/15) With the forecasted strong NE and E winds and the seas continuing to build through Saturday fluking is pretty much done. The ocean is in the mid to low 70’s and it will likely stay that way for a while. But that is OK, because some of visitors from the south should stay here after the blow. Visitors like Spanish Mackerel which are around this year.

Sunday morning Dave Werner was on board for an inlet / ocean trip. Before sunup we found slot striped bass willing to smack our poppers. After that we found some bird play about a mile out of the inlet. Seeing two Spanish mackerel bullet out of the water I busted out the trolling gear and Clark spoons. We worked the area for about an hour and boated three nice Spanish Mackerel, a fish I have not seen in our waters in quite some time. After that we found the beach front along Barnegat Light going off! For countless blocks there was hundreds upon hundreds of birds diving as mostly small blues tore up rainfish. There were some false albacore in the mix but the best we could do on them was lose one. Even trolling @ 9 mph the small blues were hitting the spoons intended for albies, ugh. With the Spanish mackerel and false albacore around the fall run is already shaping up nicely.

I am now booking for the fall run but still have some prime dates open. Contact me to get in what looks to be a great fall run.

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

September 20, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 20, 2015 5:08 PM Subject: Fishing Report

I was fishing the beach at 27th St in Barnegat Light on Thursday afternoon using a mullet rig and caught/released a Brown Shark. I also caught about nine 2 to 3-lb Bluefish and a dozen Kingfish. What a great afternoon!

~ Bruce Conner

September 19, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 19, 2015 7:54 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing reports

The light tackle action continues to be solid with blues, weakfish, stripers [slot size], fluke, puppy drum and more.

The fall bait migration is solidly underway with peanut bunker, mullet, spearing visible fleeing from attacking blues and striped bass which have consistently provided fun light tackle action for anglers aboard the Reel Fantasea.

This Sunday September 20th, I will be running an open boat from 10am-3pm to maximize the tides influence. We will be mixing it up between jigging blues and bass, shrimping weakfish and targeting the other variety as well.

I also have next Friday the 25th and Sunday the 27th available for private or open boat.

Price for open boat is $150.00.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

September 18, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Local LBI based photographer Kyle Gronostajki (@rage_kg) posted and tagged us in a photo of a fat albert!!! Kyle said, “Fun morning chasing allies and blues on the SUP (stand up paddle board)!”

Yesterday, Captain Jeff Warford of the No Limit stopped in after just getting in from another productive trip at the edge. Jeff shared this report, “We fished the Hudson Canyon Tuesday into Wednesday with owner Captain Joe Miele. Like always we fished hard! There was very heavy boat traffic. Over 100 boats chunking. At 7pm we had the bigeyes under the boat and Joe hooked up a triple header. By 9pm we were 5 for 7 on bigeyes from 130-180# class. We chunked butters heavily and all the fish bit on squid. It was another solid trip for Team WaterProof (No Limit/ Blue Runner). Captain Mark DeBlasio on the Blue Runner had his charter full of smiles with over 50 mahi mahi, 4 bigeyes and a handful of yellowfins. Fishing has been and still is very good. Get out there!”

Yesterday Tricia Johnson-Olmos posted on our Facebook page a photo of a nice fluke with this caption, “Caught today on your squid!!! 4 keepers and at least 10 throwbacks!!! Awesome day on the water!!! Also caught some bunker and skates, plus, I had my first captains lesson with Captain Eric Johnson aboard the Defiance.”

On the front beach, kingfish and croakers at many spots along the island.

~ FishHead.Greg

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted September 15, 2015 – Steve at Fisherman’s Headquarters took a break from goose hunting to report a decent sheepshead and triggerfish bite from Andy’s down through the condo access, and live finger mullet are producing fluke to 25 inches in Barnegat Inlet. The mid-island surf is producing kingfish that are nipping FishBites and bloodworms, and cocktail blues are masticating mullet baits up and down the island. In the bay, working split tail Zooms on a white jighead along the sedges will result in smashes, thrashes and hits from stripers to 25 inches. Blowfish are thick in the bay and he recommends chumming heavily, adding that it require sorting through shorts to put a decent catch in the bucket. Crabbing is excellent, with the Bridge to Nowhere an Old Bay bonanza.

September 16, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Uncle Renny took uncle Joe, brother-in-law Justin, my dad Stan and myself out to the Garden State South Reef area today. A warm beautiful day but the winds were light putting a damper of the drift. By power drifting and using gulp we managed to hooked a bunch of fluke. Heck I was using green crab pieces that were meant for tautog that the fluke were inhaling too. A number of sea bass and sea robins were also interested in our baits.

Later in the day we drifted a wreck area closer to shore that seemed to be covered with croakers. The croakers are here in force.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Sep 16, 2015 8:52 PM Subject: Report

I was on the north and south ridge today both were void of life.

~ Kenneth Smith

Received: Sep 16, 2015 8:39 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Even with school in session I have been on the water more days than not. Over the weekend keeper and short size fluke were still in the Barnegat Bay channels behind the inlet. Once again, live peanut bunker and mullet are the key to scoring keeper fluke. Peanut bunker have finally started to show in decent numbers in the lagoons and tidal creeks on the west side of the bay. Incoming tide Sunday morning brought schools of cocktail sized blues into Double Creek Channel making fluking tough. Tuesday evening I ran a magic hour trip with the Bruce Conner gang from Chicago. With light winds and seas we worked off the beaches searching for weakfish and blues. South of the inlet I marked lots of bait but very few target fish. We did have one weakfish on. Moving north of the inlet we blind casted AVA007s for constant action with one to three pound blues. All of these blues were fat and when decked they spit up large bay anchovies and small weakfish. Maybe that is why I could not find weakfish last night? At times we were doubled up and even had three on twice. If that made sense J The crew had a lot of fun fighting these blues on light tackle. I also came across a few schools of medium sized adult bunker that were so thick we snagged some on the single hooks. The ocean is still a very warm 76 degrees.

On the nature side: The other day Capt Dave DeGennaro landed a mantis shrimp while on a trip. I was lucky enough to get it for my Barnegat Bay classroom fish tank. Mantis shrimp are one of those creatures many don’t know we have in the bay and their hunting skills are one of nature’s wildest. Growing to 10”, they kill their prey by lunging their claws forward with the force of a .22 caliber bullet. Known to break through glass almost a ¼ inch thick, the mantis shrimp can break open crab and small clam shells. How cool is that?

I am now booking for the fall run but still have some prime dates open. Contact me to get in what looks to be a great fall run.

Screaming Drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

September 13, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 13, 2015 1:44 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters)

September is in full swing and we have lots of bait in the bay right now. There has been some schoolie striper around as well as weakfish action. Fluke season ends in just 10 days from now. If your going to fish in the bay for them, make sure it’s big baits (mullet, peanut bunker, etc) – but it is primarily an ocean fishery right now till the end of the season on keepers. And with the start of school, I can only run Friday afternoons and weekend trips for the rest of the season.

So this week I had Michelle and Tim out for a few hours during the late afternoon to target blowfish, and we ended up catching a variety of species including Northern Puffer (blowfish), Sea Bass, Bluefish, Sea Robin, and Puppy Drum. This was Michelle and Tim’s first-ever time fishing and Tim ended up catching a 13-inch Sea Bass (released) among the other species.

On the weekend, I had Shawn Visco and his wife Alex, and two daughters Alexandra (11yrs old) and Vivian (8yrs old) on a 4hr Bay Charter. The bay charter was more suitable for the kids as it was their 1st time ever fishing on a boat – this was a catching trip rather than one targeting keepers (even though we tried). The family did an AWESOME job catching a variety of species in the back – Fluke, Bluefish, Sea Bass, Sea Robin, Northern Puffers, and Atlantic Lizardfish. Although Alexandra took a little while to get used to it, she ended up bailing most of the blowfish, while her sister (Vivian) caught the biggest fluke of the day at 17 inches. The family had a great time on the bay, and it’s awesome to see kids excited over all of the different species of fish Barnegat Bay has to offer. This is what makes chartering fun – seeing the genuine smiles on their faces, even over a 5-inch blowfish! Love it!

Again since I’m back to teaching, I can only run Friday afternoons and weekends to December. I have been booking for fall striper trips – historically November is the best month, and we always use trolling as the “last” resort. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come aboard and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

September 12, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 12, 2015 7:01 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Grand slams and slams!

Open Boat [need 3 angler $150.00p/p] or Private Charter for Sunday 9/13/15 7am-12pm

The Last few trips have multiple slams and even Grand Slams [stripers, fluke, blues, weakfish] being scored aboard the Reel Fantasea along with a variety of other species.

The Fishing right now is pretty consistent with watching bait fleeing while being chased by a mix of blues and stripers, while the back bay has a consistent weakfish bite and going on with even a few fluke still making the mix to round out the grand slams.

Interested in getting in on this light tackle action ? Please call only as I won’t be by the computer.

September 10, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:30 PM

Capt. Jeff Warford on the “No Limit” just got back to the dock from an epic canyon fishing trip. Jeff said, “Off the charts fishing! We headed out yesterday morning to a northern canyon and fished with only a handful of boats. Started chunking at 4pm and shortly after we were hand feeding big eyes and quality yellowfin at the back of the boat. With only two guys on the boat we did the best we could to manage. By 8pm we mowed through eight flats of butter and had the boat packed to full capacity with four big yellowfin tuna (dressed out at 75-lbs) and a boat full of bigeyes (biggest dressed at 178-lbs).” This brings the No Limit 2015 summer season big eye total to 75.

A customer stopped in the shop this afternoon to restock with FishBites. While here he reported a good kingfish bite. He said the mid-island surf this morning had some nice kingfish with a couple in the 12-14″ range. He also mentioned catching a couple of croakers.

Store Staffer Blake said he has found schoolie striped bass shredding Red-Fins on numerous occasions. Everyday we get close to fall!

~ FishHead.Greg

11:30 AM

In the rain, Alex landed a few fluke this morning while fishing the area behind the condos of Barnegat Light. He kept one fish that measured 25″. In the same area, a few days ago another angler estimated losing a fluke at the bulkhead that could have been 10-lbs and blackfish are also being caught.

Kingfish reported being caught in Barnegat Light and Surf City. Most likely kingfish should be all along LBI. The reports are spotty though.

Received: Sep 10, 2015 8:13 AM Subject: BHCFA Report

The crowds have left Long Beach Island, and with fall about to arrive, Beach Haven is still enjoying the bites of the summer fish species while noticing the arrival of some fall action.

Captain Bob Gerkens on the “Hot Tuna” reports his last overnight trip to the canyons was slow on bigeye tuna but other fish picked up the slack. His crew ended up with 10 yellowfin tuna and a half dozen skipjack tuna. Before heading in they stopped to pick up a couple of tile fish which are great eating. Captain Bob says the bigeye tuna are still around and he has plans to pick up more of them in future trips. He also is pleased to see the yellowfin tuna show up to provide some variety. He has also been hearing some reports of longfin tuna showing up on the chunk and troll.

Captain Carl Sheppard of the “StarFish” continues to load up on the fluke at the inshore artificial reef sites while also finding some good action on small panfish in the bay. Two families from New Hampshire, the Riddles and the Hogans, fished with Captain Carl for two straight days. Denny Riddle topped all of the anglers with her 26-inch fluke in the ocean while her grandson, four year old Liam, performed well in the bay on blow fish and small black sea bass.

Captain Fran Verdi on the “Francesca Marie” is hoping to get as many fluke trips in as he can before the season closes on September 26. Already Captain Fran says he is looking forward to the fall striper season as well as black sea bass re-opening on October 22. He is still running his annual contest of a future free open boat fishing trip for the largest fluke caught for the year. Currently Dan Wade is in the lead for this year.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

September 9, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 9, 2015 6:40 AM Subject: LBI Charters Update

Saturday, stayed at the dock due to the strong northeast wind.

Sunday AM, had Brad, Carter, Alex, Cloe, Graham, Larry and birthday boy Ben out to bend rods. Group caught and released 179 sea bass (they counted) and a triggerfish.

Sunday PM, had Andy, Justin, Jeremy, Matt and 4 year old Asher aboard. First spot no good. Next spot picked some large released sea bass and a keeper codfish.

Still have dates on weekends through December available.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

September 8, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 8, 2015 7:30 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Report

I can’t believe another awesome summer is coming to a close but with the passing of Labor Day it’s all but official. It was a fun filled summer season meeting a lot of new families and introducing many to the fun and excitement of being on the water.

September aka “local summer” is a fantastic month as things quiet down a bit crowd wise but the weather continues to be outstanding and with water temps being the warmest of the year there is still plenty to enjoy.

As of late anglers aboard the Reel Fantasea have been enjoying a mix of light tackle action with species such as bluefish, stripers, weakfish, fluke, puppy black drum… just to name a few.

Bluefish to 8lbs and a few 24-25″ stripers have already been massacring a mix of mullet, peanut bunker and a variety of smaller baits around the inlet area. Grass shrimping the back bay has been scoring weakfish from 12″ to 17″ with a mix of drum and fluke as well.

Angling opportunities continue to abound so if light tackle action is your passion there’s plenty of catching to do!

If the Fall striper and slammer bluefish run is more on your wish list I still have a few prime dates for October and November. Want to add wreckfishing as well? No problem we also do combo trips as well.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted September 8, 2015 – FishHead Greg at Fisherman’s Headquarters says triggerfish are being caught around Ol’ Barney and the finger jetty and also at the South jetty at Barnegat Inlet. They’re putting the nip to clam and squid. The tip of the jetty is the place for a keeper blackfish, and green crab is the enticer. Expect to go through a bunch of toss ’ems before a legal tog hits the rocks, but expect plenty of action. Kingfish are showing along the mid-island sands and also to the south at Holgate, and the royals are ingesting pieces of Fishbites and bloodworm segments on high-low rigs. Store staffer Joe C. was casting a white Gulp! Grub for fluke from the Holgate Beach and ended up beating a 20-pound black drum. The surf is also hosting bunches of cocktail blues and a smattering of spike weakfish. Store staffer Rob V. says the Holgate sands are still hot for brown sharks after dark. Bayside, expect a few keeper fluke around the BI and BB buoys and also in the inlet. Snappers are beyond numerous and the crabbing is steady.

September 6, 2015 ———————————————————————–

9:15 PM

Lenny stopped in the shop this afternoon on his way off the Island. He reported catching 5 fluke (2 keepers) on live bait in the Inlet. He said yesterday (Saturday) he caught 9 shorts.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Sep 6, 2015 10:10 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

Happy Labor Day weekend to all of the fisherman out there! We had some weather, mainly winds, the past few days which produced a pretty big easterly ocean swell. This may affect the ocean bottom for fluking, but it should clean up during the start of next week. From what I heard, we have some weakfish out front, mainly small spikes and some croaker mixed in. The bay is still loaded with lots of bait (peanut bunker, spearing, mullet), but the fluke are really starting to thin out – it’s mainly an ocean thing right now.

This past week I had Stan Gola and Nick of S&S Bucktails out for a few hours to hit up some ocean fluke. We hit a few small snags that were holding quite a few fish with keepers mixed in. We used a combination of bucktails to box 9 keepers to 6 lbs. Nick ending up catching two of his first-ever keeper fluke. Nice job and an awesome day on the water.

With school starting this Tuesday, we are officially back to Friday afternoons and Weekends for charter availability now through December. We will target fluke the next few weekends prior to the close of the season. Regarding bay, blues, blowfish, possibly weakfish, will remain until the Striped Bass start biting. I have already started booking fall striper trips – historically November is the best month. I do have availability for charters

If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come aboard and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

September 5, 2015 ———————————————————————–

A number of customer were in the shop yesterday reporting fun on the bayside. Plenty of small snappers and blowfish keep the kids stoked. Also reports from the Lighthouse Park… tog, fluke, small blues and triggerfish.

Our bunker boat reported false albacore in the mix! The last couple of days albies were crashing the bait along the beach. They were scattered from the bar to about 1-2 miles out. There were also small blues and spike weakfish in the mix.

Holgate opened on September 1st and lots of anglers have had their buggies in the sand. We heard the driving conditions were good. Also word was there’s lots of good looking water. We’ll have to wait and see what happens with this blow. Hopefully the sand stays for the fall run.

Speaking of Holgate… Store staffer Rob Vallone shared this report, “There’s big brown sharks at night and a mixed bag of keeper/short fluke during the day. There’s also lots of little kingfish. Most are 5-8 inches. Only a few decent ones have been caught. There’s tons of small blues, but no bass yet. The mullet are staged up all over the bay. No confirmed sightings on the front beach yet. This NE blow might get a couple moving.”

Store staffer Joe C. caught a 20-lb black drum while fluke fishing in Holgate. He was fishing the outgoing tide with a White Gulp Grub for bait.

~ FishHead.Greg

September 3, 2015 ———————————————————————–

11:30 AM

Reports from the canyon edge have been strong! Here is what Captain Stew of the Pez Machine had to say, “This year continues to be some of the best fishing I’ve ever been part of. In our last week of fishing we’ve had 14 bigeyes, 6 swords, 2 white marlin, 34 tilefish and 100+ mahi. I can’t wait for our shot at the yellowfin!” ~ Capt. Stew Hitchner Pez Machine Sportfishing 609.287.5136

We got word that there were a good number of bigeyes caught trolling, chunking and jigging! It’s ON!

Closer to home the “sharking” has been on fire. Both land based anglers and those pushing off in the boat are having a blast. Some of the guys from the shop headed out the other night and in a short time released three good size brownies. Todd Avery has been in the shop almost every night gearing up. He is consistently into ’em every night. We also received reports of a good quantity of sand tigers are chewing.

Steve George of the Berkley Striper Club reported, “Tuesday was a great start to September. I pulled one short striper on my first cast in the morning and shortly after a second slammed my teaser. The surf was clean but still a hard shore break. The west winds made for some vicious black flies.”

Paul Lindsey who was fishing the mid-island surf reported six kingfish and added this comment, “They’re here”.

A gill netter reported there are piles of small baits a few miles off our beaches. There are also croakers, kingfish, weakfish, small blues and a few false albacore on that bait and these pods were large. If you hit the right place at the right time it will “light-up” your depthfinder.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Sep 3, 2015 11:23 AM Subject: LBI Charters Update

Had George Sr, George Jr., Gavin and 13 year old Matt out today. The group caught around 30 fluke with 6 keepers including 2 around 4 lbs and a nice 6 lb fish caught by Gavin. Played catch and release with sea bass for a bit and added a single porgy to the box.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

September 2, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Sep 2, 2015 6:56 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

Summer flounder on the inshore artificial reef sites and wrecks continue to keep the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association busy.

Captain John Lewis of the “Insatiable” says “We had a great week with lots of fluke.” Captain John says the throwbacks still far out numbers the keepers but they boated fish up to 4 –pounds. He has also been catching banded rudder fish in the bay for some great light tackle action. Most of his recent trips have been families and the kids are having a great time with all of the action. He plans to run deepwater fluke trips until the season closes and then switch over to canyon trips.

Captain George Finck of “Sparetime Charters” also terms his recent fishing as “great” with daily catches of over 60 fish. Captain George had the Kuster family out for a catch of fluke and bluefish as they went home with a few fish dinners.

Captain Ray Lopez had the “Miss Liane” out for a canyon trip with Scott Jones, Michael Miller, and Neal Smover aboard. Although no fish were boated, there were several knockdowns with a wahoo cutting the monofilament leader and a nice tuna breaking off at the boat. On another trip Captain Ray and junior mate Max Goldman had the Mann family out for a bay fishing trip. The action was steady on a wide variety of fish and the weather cooperated to make it a perfect day on the water.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net.

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

Received: Sep 2, 2015 5:00 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Even though I am back to school, I am still available for magic hour trips on weekdays. And I started the school year off on a high note with a very successful magic hour trip. I had long time client Bill Hershberg and his 13 son James out last night. After just doing a back bay trip this past Friday he wanted to go out front. I am grateful for my loyal customers like Bill and James who make a trip with Lighthouse Sportfishing part of their annual vacation plans. Thank you everyone! Stopping on some serious marks not far from the inlet we found non-stop action with spike weakfish and some legal size ones to 16’ mixed in. Small blue were also aggressively feeding with the weakfish. One drift took us ¼ mile with the screen lit up the entire time. We released well over 30 fish on AVA 007s before going to plan B. If you do go fishing for these weakfish use a single hook lure to maximize the survival rate of the released fish. While trying for blues at sundown around the inlet James hooked up with and released a 3-1/2′ brown shark. Prior to this trip I spent some time fluking behind the inlet. I landed several keepers to 23” using living mullet and peanut bunker, which is key, and top of the tide is best.

You Tube Channel: Fishing Barnegat Bay

Screaming Drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

Received: Sep 2, 2015 12:00 Noon Subject: GET SMARTER WITH FLUKE

Guest Editor Article in The Fisherman Magazine – Posting Date September 3, 2015 issue

GET SMARTER WITH FLUKE
By Nick Cicero – Tsunami Products

For the last 6 years I’ve worked diligently and been a big part of the effort to raise $200,000 in SSFFF ( Save the Summer Flounder Fishery Fund ) funding. The money has gone 100 percent to fund better fluke science in the hope that better scientific stock modeling tools would result in better management and ultimately better public access. I thought we were making progress and that NMFS (National Marine Fisheries Service) was in agreement that their stock model was outdated and didn’t reflect the true state of the population. So to be blindsided with this recent unsubstantiated cut is a real shock and an insult to our collective sense of property. The fluke are much more resilient than many would suggest. First and foremost, managing – or I should say the current method of micro-managing – the fluke fishery doesn’t seem to be working. Changing limits each and every year doesn’t even give any strategy time to play out.

Good, smart management would include regulations and quotas that remain the same for a minimum of three seasons with 3 or 5 years being a better option. Just because you reduce mortality one year doesn’t mean that next year you’ll see an increase in young of the year; certainly striped bass science has taught us that! Only Mother Nature knows why some years produce bumper crops of babies while other seasons are dismal failures. Actually, the largest year class of striped bass on record was produced by one of the lowest adult populations in history! Truth is there is significant proof showing that when adult populations are low that reproduction occurs at an earlier age and is often more prolific. Again a clear indication of Mother Nature monitoring and adapting to changes in conditions and environment.

The fact is that one of the components of the SSFFF funded study now underway by a couple of scientists at Rutgers and Cornell has identified a significant northbound shift in fluke density with significant populations now in places that 10 years ago hosted only a few. In a nutshell, the fish do move and are moving each year. Now, I know it’s hard to explain that to folks who are not catching in a favorite spot where they used to be successful, but in most cases the fluke are very abundant in most places throughout the range.

The problem is that the sizes we used to keep, and that once made up a good portion of our seasonal catches, are now off limits. Face it, most fluke have always been around 16 to 17 inches long. Back in the day and in a “newly rebuilt” fishery they are still roughly the same size. Contrary to the preservationist theory, preventing public access to fluke will not create a sea full of halibut! One might say that fluke fishing is generally fine, however, it’s fluke keeping that’s our problem. Other issues that can explain the lack of young of the year fluke in a few specific monitoring locations most certainly can be attributed to changes in predator density location and subsequent fluke population movements. The biomass of spiny dogfish that the NMFS over-protective regulations has spawned is unfathomable as is the destructive effect of those predators. Sea bass over-abundance has had its way with young of the year winter and summer flounder.

And lastly, blame must be assigned to any management strategy that forces us to target spawning class females exclusively. It’s crazy – we’re talking biological suicide! Basic logic and good common sense would indicate that a smart management plan should allow angler retention of fluke across a broad spectrum of year classes and sizes rather than keying us into this cubbyhole where we now find ourselves. NMFS is mismanaging this totally rebuilt fishery so badly that if we continue down this road we will in fact be in trouble again soon. The regulatory inspired discards are deplorable and any manager that continues to allow this to continue is in my opinion displaying a despicable lack of responsibility to the resource.

One can’t help but see the clearly punitive nature of these new regulations and the lack of real direction it displays, that is beyond a purely preservation motivated agenda implemented for no other reason than “we can.” Fact is, the proposed quota for next year is by far substantially less than what we lived with during the lowest point in the “rebuilding years.” That’s right, now that we have the largest population of fluke in modern day fisheries management history, we will be saddled with the lowest quota in decades, on a fishery that by the way, is not considered overfished! Do I think we have some spots that display poor fishing this season? Absolutely. But do I think we are at the precipice of disaster? Hell no! Over reaction and punitive regulations that pander to a few so-called environmental watchdog organizations are going to cause public, private and financial hardships without much legitimacy. Yes, by restricting seasons, it does in fact deny the public access to a healthy population of a commonly held renewable resource. And in the long run this strategy doesn’t ensure the abundance of the species for future generations of recreational fishermen. Congress needs to pass Pragmatic Magnuson reform (#1335)] so we can move forward with a new set of protocols and manage our fisheries with a common sense approach.

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted September 1, 2015 – “Crabbing is good pretty on the west side of the bay, and the Bridge to Nowhere is really good,” reports Steve at Fisherman’s Headquarters, adding that although most of the bay and Barnegat Inlet blowfish are small, increasing numbers of 7-plus inch puffers are showing in the buckets. At the top end of the Barnegat Inlet south jetty, legal tog and sheepshead are putting the dentition to green crab, with slab side triggers happy with fresh or salted clam. Fair to good counts of keeper fluke are being caught in the bay, the top offerings being a 3/4-ounce bucktail tipped with a 4-inch white or chartreuse Gulp! Swimming Mullet. The island sands have been on the slow side, but there are pan worthy kingfish beginning to be caught on clam and Fishbites at Barnegat Light, and the brown sharks continue patrolling the breakers after dark when they are grabbing fresh bunker chunks and live eels. “The sand tigers are gone, most likely because the water is cooler,” says Steve.

September 1, 2015 ———————————————————————–

11:30 AM

Store staffer Steve reports the land based tog fishing is starting up strong. “Get some greenies and head up to the Barnegat Light Inlet! Yesterday there were lots of tog chewing.” Jim Weiss of Manahawkin caught a nice keeper and also had a bunch of other fish that were close.

August 31, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 31, 2015 7:22 AM Subject: LBI Charters Weekend Update

Saturday we had Steve, Steve, Sydney, Miles, Jordan, Kenand Ellie out for a quick local ocean and bay trip. Goal was to bend some rods with the 4 young children so that’s what we did with triggerfish, porgies, sea bass and short fluke. Fun trip. Sunday AM had Luke, Tom, Sienna, and Mark out to fluke in ocean. Enough bites to keep it interesting with 3 keepers to 21 inches and 15 or so shorts. Sunday PM had Glen, Beth and Jason out Stayed shallow due to howling south winds. Landed 7 triggers and an array of sea bass and porgies. Have openings most weekends through December.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

FAMILIES – KIDS – Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Contest [DEADLINE – Monday, August 31, 2015]
All photos must include the “Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs” logo.
Logo was made available for download on this page since 8/21/15…
drugfreenj.org/news/dont-get-hooked-drugs-contest-announced/

New Jersey Online Fishing Tournament Encourages Children to Spend Quality Time with their Families

Taylor Lier, PDFNJ Media Coordinator, 201-916-1032, taylor@drugfreenj.org

New Jersey Online Fishing Tournament Encourages Children to Spend Quality Time with their Families

Millburn – The summer months are filled with warmer temperatures and plenty of opportunities for families to get outdoors and spend more valuable time together. As an effort to motivate families to spend time with their children to keep them off drugs, The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is holding the first “Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs” Online New Jersey Family Fishing Tournament. The contest will be from August 21 to August 30.

Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ said, “In the summertime, children are out of school leaving them with more free-time and more vulnerable to engage in drug use. This Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Fishing Tournament encourages families to get involved in some summertime fun. Spending more time with family is the best way to keep children from drugs and continue living drug-free.” According to Valente, kids who communicate regularly with their parents about their daily activities are 67 percent less likely to be involved in substance abuse than children who have little or no communication. “In a world where children constantly stay plugged into technology, a day of fishing will be a nice break and drive families to talk with one another more about their daily activities,” Valente said.

To participate in the contest, entrants must be 18 years of age or younger and be accompanied by a parent or guardian while fishing. While enjoying a fishing trip with family, take a picture of your family with a caught fish along with PDFNJ’s “Don’t’ Get Hooked” logo, and the hashtag #dontgethooked. Pictures can be posted by liking PDFNJ’s Facebook page at Drug-Free NJ or by following PDFNJ on Twitter and Instagram. The “Don’t Get Hooked” logo is available in a printable format to download or ensure the electronic version is in the photo.

All entries must be submitted no later than August 31, 2015. A winner will be selected at random on September 1, 2015 and will be eligible to win over $600 in cash prizes.

Best known for its statewide anti-drug advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a private not-for-profit coalition of professionals from the communications, corporate and government communities whose collective mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in New Jersey through media communication. To date, more than $50 million in broadcast time and print space has been donated to the Partnership’s New Jersey campaign, making it the largest public service advertising campaign in New Jersey’s history. Since its inception the Partnership has garnered over 46 Advertising and Public Relations Awards from National, Regional & Statewide Media Organizations.

August 30, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 30, 2015 7:03 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

It’s been a busy week with trips. In the beginning of the week the fluking was slow, but the bite got better as we approached the full moon. We have been getting anywhere between 15 to 40 fish per outing. Fluke continue to be staging towards the Inlet. I did have a chance to fish myself (ocean) and was able to box a few – so they are definitely out there.

First up, we had return client Art Diebel and his three kids (Nell-15, Walter-13, and Bruce-10) on a 4hr Bay & Inlet trip. We had some challenging drift conditions and were able to catch over 20 fish, with 1 lone keeper (21 in) caught by his daughter Nell.

Next up was return client Jason Black of Short Hills, and Michael Weinstein of Brooklyn, NY on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. We started fluking, but the bite was less than optimal so we decided on hitting the breaking bluefish near the inlet. The two had a great time casting and hooking up with 2-5lb blues. We ended the trip fluking, but no keepers were to be had. Michael hooked into a huge cow-nose ray that took a good 15-20 minutes to bring boat-side.

Later in the week, I had return client Derek Bowen and his wife Christina, and daughters Megan and Dani on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. We started working some backchannels and had a decent bite until the current switched. With a quick move, the foursome were into the fluke again, but this time Megan connected on a nice 19.5in fluke. Not to be outdone, her younger sister boxed a fat 19 incher on live bait. The family caught close to 40 fluke for the day with 2 keepers, and some small sea bass, sea robins, and calico crabs.

And ending the week, I had Chris Reidy and his son Aidan of Cranford, NJ on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. We worked a variety of locations and it seemed that we always had wind against tide, so power-drifting was the mainstay. The pair managed to catch close to 30 fluke and two nice 19-inchers that made it home for the table, both caught by 10yr Aidan.

Since I go back to teaching this upcoming week, I only have available Thursday 9/3, Friday 9/4, Saturday 9/5, and will continue to book Friday afternoons and weekends through December. Fluke season ends the 24th of September, and I recommend Ocean Fluking for all fluke trips occurring this month as they are definitely pushing out into the ocean. I have already started booking fall striper trips – historically November is the best month. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come aboard and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

August 28, 2015 ———————————————————————–

12:00 Noon

Yesterday our bunker boat delivered some fresh bunker. He also reported, “There’s lots of croakers lined up along the beach. The king fish are mixed in with ’em as well as a few small blues and some weakfish.”

~ FishHead.Greg

Keep America Fishing – ICAST2015

This Sunday Morning It’s ICAST Like You’ve Never Seen It Before!
You do not want to miss this!
This Sunday, World Fishing Journal, produced by World Fishing Network ( act.keepamericafishing.org/site/R?i=FQUBaXN64_ImVL-xPvDvqw ),
is airing a special one-hour show featuring the highlights of ICAST 2015 – the world’s largest recreational fishing trade show.
See what’s new for the 2016 season in everything you need and want for an amazing day on the water!
When: Sunday, August 30, 11:00 a.m., Eastern time
Want to see the show’s preview – just CLICK… act.keepamericafishing.org/site/R?i=HfBHaKsOC6e_1RBX3Evgag
TUNE IN ON SUNDAY MORNING!

Received: Thursday, August 27, 2015 1:38 PM Subject: Surf Fishing

Hello guys, First, thank you for a great website, I look forward to seeing all the updates and newest gear. I am relatively new to surf fishing and wanted to know if you could help me out. I know LBI is a large area; I fished years ago near a few jetties (advice from your shop) along the beach but rumor has it they are no longer around. Any suggestions on which areas to fish generally for a few bites? All advice is greatly appreciated. Have a great day, tight lines, and thanks again!

~ Allison, Aaron David

We share today’s rely to above from Greg…

As you mentioned Long Beach Island is large area. There’s fishing opportunity on all sides. Because you mentioned surf fishing and jetties I will keep this information focused on such.

After years of beach fill projects nearly all of LBI’s prized jetties for fishing and surfing are buried. The few that remain are great places to fish. The main jetty that I would suggest fishing is Barnegat Inlet’s “South Jetty” located at the north end of LBI in the town of Barnegat Light. The Inlet offers great fishing almost all year long. Currently you have fluke stacked up as they migrate out of the bay. There’s also a large population of resident schoolie sized striped bass that call the inlet home. The only other jetties are located on the south end of the Island. These are found from the south end of Beach Haven, into Holgate and right to the end of the Long Beach Boulevard where there is a public parking lot. These areas have produced fluke all summer long and have also been the area for some of the Island’s best beach shark fishing. Please note that these jetties will be covered soon. The active beach fill project that started in Ship Bottom is working south in their direction.

Before closing I would like to mention, do not over look open beaches! The right beaches offer phenomenal fishing. Please note two things… One, not every beach (or street) is going to have structure or a fishy profile. Two, sand beaches change frequently depending on the wind and wave action. What was a great spot last month might not exist now. On the other hand a spot that didn’t look fishy last month might have a new face after a storm.

There isn’t one best spot all of the time. This time a year I suggest to start by going to an area that is most convenient or has less people (swimmers and tanners) which is not an easy task. Once there observe the beach, the waters and the water’s edge from the highest vantage point possible (beach entrance dune peak, bench on beach, etc). Then walk the beach and fish or if bait-and-wait fishing set up and cast out.

Observing the beach is the key. You need to find the breaks in a stretch of beach where unique beach profiles can be found. That’s where you want to fish. The features you should look for are… large sand bars near deeper water holes, rip currents and cuts in sand bars where water pulls away from the beach, troughs or sloughs “slews” of water running parallel to the beach, white water from waves spilling off into pockets of deeper water, areas where the shore break chewed out the sand at the water’s edge creating a bowl and cliff. You’ll notice that the water acts differently in these areas and that is why fish should be there.

Hopefully I helped point you in the right direction on your next trip as well as future fishing trips. Next time you are in the area stop by the shop and say hi. We can go over the topics in much more detail face to face with a couple of sketches or real beach.

~ FishHead.Greg

August 27, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted August 25, 2015 – “Stan from Fisherman’s Headquarters gave us several reports. He started with a report of some bluefish being caught along the oceanfront and at Barnegat Inlet. Some fluke are also being pulled from the wash and anglers fishing live mullet boated some good size flatfish over the weekend. Shark fishing remains good at Beach Haven in the evening on mackerel and cut bunker. Crabbing has been very good all over with some bigger crabs being caught as it gets later in the summer. School size bass are hitting in the bay along with some kingfish and weakfish. The top weigh-in at the store this past week was a 6-1/2-pound fluke caught by John Shuster while fishing on the Team High Voltage using a 4-inch Gulp.”

August 26, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 26, 2015 8:27 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

The 2015 Junior Mates class of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association ended its classes with the John Koegler Memorial fishing trip and party following at the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club. BHCFA president, Jimmy Zavacky was quick to praise Barry Baxter from Barry’s Do Me A Flavor for donating food for the party along with the Koegler family for donating prizes for the competing anglers. Eight junior mates weighed in fish ranging from the 12-ounce Boston Mackerel to the 5.48 pound fluke caught by Dylan Fisher.

Captain John Lewis reports the “Insatiable” had a great week both fishing parties and with the Junior Mates. Fluke fishing has improved greatly for Captain John in the last ten days bringing a lot of action with double digit releases and keepers up to 25″. His Junior Mate Dylan Fisher won the John Koegler Memorial Junior Mate tournament with a flatty weighing in at 5.48 pounds. His second largest fish was 4.4 pounds. He is also starting to see some keeper sized blowfish in the bay.

Captain Ray Lopez had the Blake family out on the “Miss Liane” for a bay fluke fishing trip. Five year old Eli was the hit of the day when he caught his first three fluke ever. Another trip on the “Miss Liane” saw a group fishing several local reefs looking for big fluke. The group caught an assortment of fish including ling, jumbo sea bass, fluke, and even a squid. All were entertained watching the squid shoot its link while being netted. The group managed to box two 20-inch keeper fluke.

Captain Carl Sheppard had the “Star Fish” out every day for the past week and experienced plenty of rods bending. Leading the charge were large black sea bass which had to all be released since their season is closed. A bachelor party last Saturday proved to be productive as the group caught almost 100 fish including some very large fluke and a nice trigger fish. A large shark also made an appearance, biting through one of the lines.

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

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

August 25, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 25, 2015 5:45 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Still busy and on the water almost every day. Most recent charters where Saturday, Sunday and Monday. While some say a bad day a fishing is better than a good day at work, I say a bad day of fishing is made great when patterns are figured out. Consistent success on the water is often achieved by knowing the patterns of feeding for your target species. I often customize my start times based on this key local knowledge. This can be matching the hatch or in the bay knowing what cycle of tide fish are most actively feeding as well and where. Last week, the best pattern for fluking fishing was the last of incoming through outgoing and slowing only when the current started to peak. Well during the last three trips there was a departure from this pattern. Likely cause was poor visibility at the time of high tide since water temperature is not an issue (low to mid 70s). Even with that, the fluking has been decent but not the 10 fish an hour I had been seeing. The fluke are staging behind the inlet and starting to feed heavily on bay anchovies (aka rainfish) and spearing as they fatten up for their migration toward the Continental Shelf.

Leo Panagopulos from Brooklyn caught several short fluke yesterday. Also during the Panagopulos trip, Leo’s dad, Nick, landed a squid in Double Creek Channel. In over 35 years on the bay this a first for me. You know I will be researching the species and life history of the squid that hit the deck. This time of year we should be experiencing peak weakfishing in the backbay, with chumming shrimp the number one method of scoring. Part of my last two trips where spent chumming for weakfish but none where to be hooked.

On the bait scene: mullet are showing in the back marshes in good numbers. I have been able to net them for live bait on my trips before sun up. This time of year I like to target big fluke with big large live baits and I will go the extra mile trying to secure them for my clients. Peanut bunker are very scarce. Where I should be seeing nice schools this time of year to net I am not. I have only netted a few peanut bunker while throwing the net on mullet.

Still have some open days before back to school.

Screaming Drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

August 22, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:00 PM

Anthony Lawrence reported…
“I geared up yesterday evening at Fisherman’s Headquarters and then went with my 5-yr old son Jacob and nephew Myles to cast net live mullet and peanut bunker. After that we went fishing with the perpetual hope of landing a massive Striper. On what was to be my last cast for the night I almost got spooled. Rod was bent and palming my reel I fought this fish that was hooked on a 6/0 J Hook with 40-lb leader. Once landed it turned out to be a HUGE Sandbar Shark. The fish was released unharmed after a 15-min fight. Time for a new leader.”

12:00 Noon

A number of anglers using live mullet did well off the Condo Bulkhead in Barnegat Light with keeper size Fluke. Boats drifting that same area and out the inlet are also scoring. Big baits are catching. (Keep in mind we now have the New! Berkley Gulp! Nemesis in stock in limited colors mentioned in detail in yesterday’s report) Store staff Steve is going to give salted mackerel a try this afternoon. Barnegat Bay is providing action with Fluke, Weakfish, Blowfish and Bluefish. In most cases the fish are not large but they are plentiful. More than enough for multiple meals.

Anglers fishing the area around the end of Barnegat Inlet’s South Jetty are being rewarded with Fluke and “at their feet” Blackfish (Tautog). Be careful the jetty can be a hazardous place.

Getting better reports of Kingfish. Even from the North End of the island.

Received: Aug 22, 2015 7:52 AM Subject: Blowfish

Capt Mike Greene of Luckey Stripes Charters reporting another great Barnegat Bay charter for blowfish. We caught about 50 fish and only some of the bigger fish where kept for the creation of a great dinner.

~ Capt. Mike Greene Lucky Stripes Charters 718.644.6087

Received: Aug 22, 2015 6:53 AM Subject: Open Boat Sunday – Barnegat Ridge, Weakies… Both?

Beautiful weather for the next few days. Light and variable NE winds. Looks like the seas could be calm enough for a Barnegat Ridge exploration. I’m going to give it a try, if it’s not a flat ocean, we are staying in the bay to target weakfish on live shrimp and light tackle. I am ordering a batch of shrimp as an insurance policy in case the seas are too rough or we are not catching at the Ridge. It only takes an hour out there to find out. If there’s readings, birds, slicks, or hookups we stay. If it’s lifeless or the water is ugly green we shoot back in the bay to salvage the trip with some light tackle action. Whoever signs on should be willing to do either.

Sunday and Monday, Aug 23 and 24, 7AM to 1PM. $175 person. 3 people max. All fish are shared.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: August 21, 2015 at 7:31:21 PM Subject: News release. ASA donates $10,000

ALL NJ ANGLERS SHOULD KNOW BY NOW THAT…
New Jersey Anglers may in 2016 face a 30% Fluke (Summer Flounder) catch reduction based on questionable
science used by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council MAFMC if action is not taken starting now!

FishAmerica Foundation Awards $10,000 to Support Summer Flounder (Fluke) Science

To help advance fisheries science and promote improved fishing access to summer flounder, the American Sportfishing Association has awarded $10,000 through the Fish America Foundation to support the Save the Summer Flounder Fishery Fund (SSFFF). The foundation’s grant will be leveraged with $50,000 in additional matching funds from other organizations and agencies.

“The FishAmerica Foundation is proud to support SSFFF on their initiative to advance fisheries science and promote improved fishing access to summer flounder for those who enjoy it and depend on its survival,” said Mike Nussman, president and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association (ASA). “The recent decision by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) to significantly cut the summer flounder recreational harvest in 2016 makes this all the more important.”

The SSFFF is working with scientists from Cornell, Rutgers and other universities, along with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), to develop a more comprehensive summer flounder model that more accurately portrays the size and composition of the fishery. Dr. Pat Sullivan from Cornell University is leading the effort on developing the new stock synthesis model, which he hopes will be ready for review by the summer flounder stock assessment scheduled for 2016. The new model, if accepted by NMFS, will lead to better, more accurate fisheries management.

“ASA has, from day one, been in the forefront of supporting this effort for better science, and on behalf of the SSFFF board, I extend my appreciation to the foundation,” said Nick Cicero, Sales Manager at the Tsunami Corporation. “With luck, this may be the start of a new way of dealing with NMFS and the beginning of a more cooperative relationship between user groups.”

As ASA’s research and conservation foundation, the FishAmerica Foundation empowers local communities to invest in improving sportfishing opportunities and habitat conservation through matching funding and volunteer support.

For additional information and to support FishAmerica Foundation research, please visit www.fishamerica.org or contact Ruth Jackson, Grants Manager, (703) 519-9691, x247.

Or, visit and help Save the Summer Flounder Fishery Fund (SSFFF) directly at… www.ssfff.net/ …No donation is too small.

~ Nick Cicero, Sales Manager at the Tsunami Corporation

August 21, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:30 PM

The New! Berkley GSNMS6.5 Gulp! Saltwater Nemesis is in stock now!
Hot on the heels of proven performers like the 7″ Jerk Shad and 6″ Grub comes the Gulp 6.5″ Nemesis! The newest member of the Gulp range has been designed so anglers get the best of both worlds; the slim body profile of a Jerk Shad with the deadly action of a Curl Tail Grub. A new winning performance Gulp! bait from Berkley. The smaller body diameter matches up easier with popular hooks, jigs and bucktails used for Fluke and Striper.
– In-stock Colors… Nuclear Chicken, New Penny and Pink Shine
– Coming Soon… Chartreuse, Opening Night and Pearl White

Received: Aug 21, 2015 10:41 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Sportfishing LLC

It’s been another busy week on the water off Barnegat Light. It seems the fluke are getting closer and closer to the inlet, and making there way to the inshore normal inshore locations. There is an abundance of baitfish in the back: peanut bunker, spearing, and snapper bluefish, which should continue to hold some of the keeper-sized fluke. Try using the bigger baits for the keeper fluke as there are a bunch of smaller ones in the area. I have been getting word of weakfish being caught early, and also schoolie stripers are still around at the right temperatures, which may be option for early morning trips before changing over to fluke.

This past week was up and down due to wind and drift conditions putting 1 to 5 keepers in the box per trip.

First up was return client Michelle Lambros of Kuwait, her two sons Elias and Andreas, and her niece Shannon McKenna of Princeton, NJ on a 4 hr bay & inlet charter. We had a little wind to contend with, but worked some areas around the inlet with with bucktails and live-bait rigs. The family ended up with over 30 short fluke and 3 keepers (18, 19, 20in).

Next, was Sonya Matthews of Flemington, NJ along with her son Christian, and his friend Kevin Giles and Ben Ilvenna on a 4 hr bay & inlet charter. We had much windier and tougher drifting conditions than the previous trip. This most likely impacted our bait-lure presentations. The foursome still managed over 20 fish, but only 1 keeper (19 in). This was Ben’s 1st ever keeper fluke, nice job!!

Later in the week I had Tim Murphy of Doylestown, PA and his son Kevin on a 4 hr bay & inlet charter with similar conditions as the day before, but the keeper fluke were much hungrier even in the windy conditions. We ended up using a drift sock in the bay for the majority of the trip, which helped Tim and Kevin put over 30 shorts in the boat along with 5 keepers for the table (21, 19, 18.5, 18.5, 18in). The bucktail tipped with live bait was the trick. Nice job by the father & son team.

I have just received a few demo rods from G. Loomis (Inshore Series E6X) to try on charters, so once I get the new reels (awaiting delivery) – I will get them strung and ready for charter use.

I have limited availability next week (8/23 – 8/29) prior to the start of school (Sept 3). Once school starts, I will be available Friday afternoons and Saturday/Sunday for charter. I have already started booking for fall striper trips – historically November is the best month. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come aboard and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

August 20, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Thursday, August 20, 2015 10:22 AM Subject: Weakfish

Another great weakfish morning today. Mapi Koz of Wantage NJ had a beautiful weakfish that pulled the weigh-scale to 3-lbs. She caught this fish using live grass shrimp aboard the Hi Flier. One to three pound fish on live grass shrimp using six pound spinning rods. Fishing the west side of the bay in eight feet of water with shrimp baited hooks under floats and casting 1/8 ounce jigheads tipped with shrimp. Again, it was a hot slick with some small blues, puppy drum, and sand sharks peppered in.

Room for one person on our Friday, Aug 21 afternoon Open Boat from Noon to 5 PM. Available Sunday and Monday, Aug 23 and 24, for charter or Open Boat.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

August 19, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 19, 2015 8:41 PM Subject: Report

Plenty of blowfish in the bay behind Beach Haven. Fished for 1-1/2 hours this evening and had 17 keepers. You have to weed through a lot of tiny ones but there are enough bigger ones to make it worth the effort.

~ George & Laura Gilbert

Received: Aug 19, 2015 8:26 PM Subject: Weakfish!

Crushed the weakfish today on the live grass shrimp. One to three pound fish on six pound spinning tackle. Anchored up in eight feet of water on the west side of the bay. Fishing shrimp baited hooks under floats and casting 1/8 ounce jigheads tipped with shrimp. Very hot slick. Also had some small blues, sand sharks, and puppy drum in the mix.

Have room for one person on our Friday Open Boat trip, Noon to 5 PM. Available Sunday and Monday for charter or Open Boat.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: Aug 19, 2015 7:31 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

The boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are experiencing a steady improvement in the local summer flounder action. The inshore wrecks and reefs are providing increased numbers of keeper almost daily.

Captain John Lewis reports that his new boat, “Insatiable,” is performing well and was booked solid last week. He is seeing daily improvement in the inshore fluke fishing and was especially impressed with young Max Capatides boating a 23-inch beauty.

Captain George Finck of “Sparetime Charters” has also been finding some nice fluke. He had the Beth Catania family out on the reef fishing, and their day was topped with a 24-inch flattie.

Captain Ray Lopez had a group made up of Bob Hass, Miss Fran, and Bill out for a day of fluke fishing on the “Miss Liane”. Despite catching a wide variety of fish off Island Beach State Park, they were unable to land any keepers. Another day he had father and son Andrew and Maxwell Goldman out to several inshore canyons looking for tuna. A beautiful day and plenty of signs of life, but they were unable to hook up. Even the lobster pots seemed devoid of mahi-mahi. Maxwell did land a nice sized bluefish on one of the flat lines.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky had a banner day on the “Reel Determined” recently with a total of 10 keepers. Another day his party caught 5 keepers with mackerel strips being the hot bait. On Sunday he had the Cocillano family who fished a half day trip and caught 4 keepers to 25-inches. At one point they landed three keepers within 5 minutes, all on Gulp.

The captains of the BHCFA participated in a memorial event last Sunday at the Little Egg Reef in honor of Captain John Koegler who passed away last winter. Flowers were placed on the water, and Captain John’s family was impressed with the love and respect shown toward John. His name will live on as the Junior Mates annual fishing trip will now be known as the John Koegler Memorial Fishing Tournament.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

Received: August 19, 2015 2:20 PM Subject: Fishing Report

Got some schoolie stripers on poppers before sun up today.

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

August 17, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 17, 2015 12:08 PM Subject: Mixed Bag….and Weakfish!

Over the past few days I’ve been catching a few small weakfish, like 12 to 14 inch class, on the west side of the bay using shedder crab and grass shrimp. In the mix, we are catching sand sharks (some nice size), puppy drum (juvenile black drum), blowfish, burrfish (a huge spiny puffer), snapper blues and 1 pound bluefish, short fluke, and some other characters.

Today, though, was different, we had the mixed bag of species but the weakies were 16 to 22 inches! Legitimate 3 pounders. A blast on the 6 pound spinning rods that we were using. Three landed and dropped two more. We’re calling it three hookups.

Available for charter this Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday afternoon Aug.18, 20, and 21.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

2015 NJ Marine (Salt Water) Regulations for Weakfish:
No Closed Season, 1 fish, 13″ min length

Date: Aug 17, 2015 8:18 AM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

I have been on the water 6 of the last 7 days, during which time the Debbie M showed her true versatility as an all-around fishing machine. From clamming in 1 foot of water to trolling the edge of the 100 foot line the Debbie M was there this week.

Early in the week the residual effects of the dry nor’easter was still evident in water clarity. Ocean water was still a little cloudy which only slight slowed down the fluke bite. Ocean temperature along the beach is starting to drop with the southerlies while the bay will be going up to up to 85 or 86 with the predicted heat wave this week. Solid fluking the channels can be had with most of the fish falling short of the 18’ limit. However, enough keeper fluke hit the cooler the last three bay trips to make more than one meal. The fluke of the week came during the John Robertson of Manahawkin trip when his 16 year old son Joey landed a 5 pound fluke.

Thursday I went to the ridge in search of bonito with the Field’s. We trolled the north ridge and south ridge with only one hit. Water was clear and green with better water at the south. Minimal bait was seen on the fish finder while trolling. With the ridge dead we switched to plan B, off the beach sharking. Moving several miles inshore of the ridge we started chumming. Schools of chub mackerel were constantly feeding off our chum slick making an easy source of live shark bait. After offering to stay out longer due to the lack of action, the high rod went off. With over half of the spool of 30 lb mono gone I started chasing the shark down. Almost two hours later we released a 7’ dusky with a with an estimated weight of well over 100 lbs.

After harvesting 70 clams or so on Saturday, my wife Debbie M and I went fluking for a bit. In an hour and a half we boated over 30 fish with one coming home for dinner. After that is was a check of the crabs pots for some blue crabs to round off the menu. Man, do I love this time of year!

Crabbing has been really good off of Barnegat. I am now starting to see the first mummies of the season. These females have recently mated, matured from shedders and will disperse developed eggs next year. With the excellent fluking and crabbing action it is a great time to get your kids on the water as they are sure to have a positive experience and lasting memories.

Wishing You Screaming Drags…

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

August 16, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 16, 2015 2:18 PM Subject: Old Barney Charters Fluke Report

Ocean fishing continues to produce nice fluke for us, with the keeper to catch ratio improving every day.

First up was Ginger, Heather, and kids Brandon (11), Emelyn (10), Isla (5) and Laird (3) out for a short inlet fluke trip. Isla landed the only keeper at 18.5″ and Emelyn had a double header fluke on the bucktail and teaser – not bad for the first time ever fluking!

Next up was Dan Snead and daughter Emma who fished the bay, inlet and ocean. Dan landed the largest at 24″, just making 5lbs. They added a 20″ and 19″ to the cooler before Emma had to head back for soccer tryouts. Emma was a sea bass master, catching 5 keeper sized that all went back of course.

Today (Sunday) Matt and nephew Austin hit the ocean for some fluke. They boxed 6 keepers at 24.5″, 23″, 20″, 19″, 19″ and 18.5″. The biggest fish went 5.25lbs. Nice day bucktailing flatties for the pair, especially considering it was only a 4 hour trip.

Only available dates remaining prior to school are 8/19, 8/20, 8/21 and 8/22. Weather looks good for the upcoming week. All tackle, bait, and fish cleaning provided.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

12:00 Noon

Capt Greene of the Luckey Stripes said the blowfish moved in and he got ’em good, “Had a quick 50 but lots of small ones that went back.”

August 15, 2015 ———————————————————————–

9:00 PM

Angler John Shuster caught a 6.55-lb 28″ Fluke while fishing with Captain Shap Belliea aboard the Team High Voltage II. They were using 4″ Chartreuse Gulp in the Ocean off the South-end. This was one of 20 Fluke the boat hooked up.

Received: Aug 15, 2015 9:05 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Sportfishing

Well, it’s been a busy few weeks with the weather cooperating and we are consistently getting fish on light tackle. Bucktailing the backwaters have accounted for most of the keepers, but you have to pick through the shorts.
We are seeing ratios anywhere between 10 to 20 shorts per 1 keeper. I have been booked solid for bay & inlet trips, but look to get outside and do some ocean fluking. It seems a lot of keepers (ocean side) coming from 40-65 ft depths north or south. With this upcoming week of predicted south winds, some of the resident bass may turn on with the influx of colder water. I haven’t heard much on blowfish yet, but they should be here (bigger ones) any day.

Here’s the rundown of our most recent trips:

8/10 – I had Mike Geddis and his two boys, Nate and Ethan of Upper Freehold on a 4hr Bay & Inlet trip targeting fluke. We started the trip jigging and dragging minnows, and Nate was first to get on the board landing a nice 20″ fluke. With power-drifting conditions, Ethan landed a fat 19″ fluke. We had at least 4-5 fish that approached the 18″ mark, but were released to swim another day. The trio ended the trip with 30+ fluke and 2 keepers.

8/12 – I had return client Andy Ead of Watchung and his son Jaeden, along with Mark Matthews and his son Ryan Matthews of Berkley Heights on a 4-hr Bay & Inlet charter. The boys wanted blues, so we started the trip out working some bird action and they connected on a bunch. We left them biting and moved in the back to try for fluke. The conditions were not ideal, but the foursome managed to box 2 keeper fluke (18.5″, 22″) along with close to 20 shorts.

8/12 afternoon – I had Chris Pacione of Pittsburgh, PA and his two boys Enzo (age 6) and Leo (age 9) on an afternoon 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. We still had some challenging conditions with the wind and tide, but it improved as the trip went on. The father and son team managed to box two keeper fluke (19″, 18.5″) along with a couple of bluefish. This was the boys first trip on a boat, and they did an amazing job catching over 20 shorts fluke.

8/13 – I had Dave Ferris of Red Bank, Nj along with his two sons Jack and Nick on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. The trip was supposed to be a Barnegat Ridge trip, but with word of no-life the trio opted for a Bay & Inlet trip. We had some heavier winds which made for challenging drifting conditions for fluke, but the trio managed to catch close to 20 shorts with one 21.5″ keeper and a few bluefish.

8/14 – I had return client Thomas Dillon and his son Tommy (aka “T”) of Ramsey, NJ on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. The father-son team wanted to have some fun with blues before hitting the back to fluke. We got into a nice area that held aggressively feeding blues which were busting on the surface. The pair hooked up on close to 15 blues, before moving to the back to fluke. With good bucktailing conditions, the father-son team caught 30+ shorts and boxed three keepers (18″, 18.5″, 19.5″).

8/14 afternoon – I had Mike Tuosto of North Brunswick along with his 3 grandchildren of Redford, VA (Robert, Lucas, and Rachel) on a 4hr Bay & Inlet Charter. We started catching right away with some remaining tide, and the foursome released close to 20 shorts. As the bite died, we worked over 7 different locations, but unfortunately the keepers were not cooperating. The grandkids want to catch some blues, so after a quick gear switch, we worked the inlet area for blues. The team hooked up with over a dozen and boxing a few for the grill.

I have a few days open next week (8/16-8/22) and the following week (8/23-8/29) prior to the start of school. Once school starts, I will be available Friday afternoons and Saturday/Sunday for charter. I have already started booking for fall striper trips – historically November is the best month. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come aboard and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709Capt. Brett Taylor

August 14, 2015 ———————————————————————–

The offshore surprise of the day was a 72 pound Cobia caught by George Gilbert about 7 miles offshore out of Beach Haven Inlet on a live bunker. George was just trying for a shark at the time… and he comes up with this.
Click to view – Wow! Congratulations George!
Plus on Facebook… www.facebook.com/fishermans.headquarters/posts/1456866744621497:0

Received: Aug 14, 2015 7:50 AM Subject: 58th Annual Fluke Tournament – August 15th- 22nd

58th Annual Fluke Tournament starts tomorrow!
– Captain’s meeting is tonight at 7:30pm, doors open at 6:00pm.
– Can’t make the meeting? Don’t worry, you can pay online with credit card! www.forkedrivertunaclub.com/annual.html

Visit the Forked River Tuna Club website for upcoming tournaments, seminars, and fishing related events in our area…

www.forkedrivertunaclub.com or www.facebook.com/forkedrivertunaclub

~ Forked River Tuna Club – Tournament Committee

August 13, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posted August 11, 2015 – Blake from Fisherman’s Headquarters points to the lower part of the bay for nighttime tussles with sand tigers and brown sharks but stresses the importance of chumming heavily. Fluke activity in the suds is fair when there’s not heavy surf, and it’s a jighead with a Gulp! Swimming Mullet or a bucktail with same that are nailing the flatfish. Along the south jetty at Barnegat Inlet it’s a pick at short and keeper fluke and also tog and the occasional triggerfish. Green crab and clam are catching the latter pair. On the local reefs, it’s the 5-inch Gulp! Swimming Mullet and the 6-inch Gulp! Grub that are putting fluke from 3 pounds to 6 pounds in the boxes. Crabbing continues to be excellent.

August 12, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 13, 2015 6:54 AM Subject: BHCFA Report

Although strong northeast winds made ocean fishing difficult recently, the boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association found ways to put fish in the boats.

Captain John Lewis got a late start this fishing season due to purchasing and outfitting his new “Insatiable.” He finally was able to hit the g round running at the end of July and has been busy taking out families with children. His customers have been having a blast with a combination of fluke, sea bass, croakers, blowfish sea robins and the kids’ favorite, sand sharks. An oddity he caught last week was a fluke that was dark on both sides.

Captain Ray Lopez had the Souder party out on the “Miss Liane” for a half day of fluke fishing recently. Rough seas forced them inside to bay fishing where there was non-stop action. Along with the numerous shorts were two nice keepers. The next day the Panus party encountered the same type of rough seas and they also fished inside. The fluke bite was on the slow side but they caught a variety of fish highlighted by young Ryan’s snapper blue.

Captain Carl Sheppard also had to fish the “Star Fish” inside the inlet last weekend thanks to the strong northeast winds. One day they boated over 50 fish without one keeper in the mix. On Monday they got outside with the Callahan and Disco groups where they found a very nice mix of triggerfish and porgies. On Friday Captain Carl had the honor to be selected for a burial at sea of the ashes of both parents of the Schlatterer family. Following the ceremony the group spent time fishing in remembrance of their loved ones.

Captain George Finck reports being very busy over the past week with “Sparetime Charters.” His groups had plenty of action on local reefs and in the inlet catching anywhere from 20-60 fish a trip. They found out of season black sea bass, fluke and sand sharks making up their catch.

Captain Fran Verdi has been fishing the “Francesca Marie” practically every day. He say s is he is not happy over the black sea bass closure, and he has been finding up and down results for fluke. He expects the fluke action to hit its peak in late August and September.

Captain Dave Kreines had the Topche family out on the “Byte Me” for a bay trip. They young girls were thrilled with the sand sharks and 6 year old Mica caught a nice keeper fluke but was more excited with his first sea robin. The adults kept busy helping the enthused children.

The Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association will hold a regatta this Sunday, August 16, in memory of Captain John Koegler who passed away last winter. A caravan of boats will leave from Morrison’s Marina in Beach Haven and lay a wreath and flowers in one of John’s favorite fishing spots. Anyone wishing to participate should contact Captain Jimmy Zavacky at reeldetermined@comcast.net

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

August 12, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 12, 2015 7:41 PM Subject: LBI charters update

Rough week with the dry northeaster this past weekend.

First up had Chris, Rachael, Audrey and Eric out on Sunday in the bay. Plenty of bites with around 40 fluke boated bit Chris had the only keeper.

Next up were Frank, Matt, Anthony, and Pat on Monday and we were once again confined to the bay. Landed 50 fish but once again only one keeper.

On Wednesday headed out with Heather, Brian and Tyler. Tried trigger fishing no good with brown water from the storm so into the bay we went. Group fished hard and landed 15 fish with 3 keepers and Heather leading the way with two of them. Finally had Bob, Chris and John out Wednesday afternoon. Tried blackfishing. Landed a dozen shorts and some sea bass that had to go back due to season being closed.

Back at it in 2 weeks open next Sunday the 23rd along with all weekends after that.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

August 10, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 10, 2015 8:34 AM Subject: Old Barney Charters fluke report 8/10

The fluke continue to bite in numbers in the bay channels and around the inlet with shorts outnumbering keepers 15 to 1 on some days and even higher on other days. All fluke are coming on teasers fished above bucktails. Gulp! and live bait are all productive.

First up was Colleen Crogan and family. We fished the bay had managed lots of short. We ended the day with 2 keepers at 18.5″.

Next up was fourth year returning charter Scott Rutherford and family from Texas. The group kept track and they caught 62 fluke. Of those 62 fluke, 4 taped out at legal size with their largest at 20″.

Saturday’s trip was cancelled due to weather.

Sunday, Jerry Gerth and family hammered the bay for fluke. There was tremendous boat traffic in the inlet area due to poor sea conditions. The group caught lots of fluke, but unfortunately none made the 18″ length.

On all trips, we also caught blowfish although we were not targeting them. Many were some of the smallest blowfish I’ve ever seen. I did give the blowfishing a try on an off day and it was not productive. I thought for sure they were here in numbers.

I have no openings this upcoming week. August 17th, 19th, 20th and 21st are my last remaining dates before school starts 8/25. To reserve, email or call.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

August 8, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Contest Announced

All photos must include the “Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs” logo.
Logo will be made available for download on this page on 8/21/15… drugfreenj.org/news/dont-get-hooked-drugs-contest-announced/

New Jersey Online Fishing Tournament Encourages Children to Spend Quality Time with their Families

Taylor Lier, PDFNJ Media Coordinator, 201-916-1032, taylor@drugfreenj.org

New Jersey Online Fishing Tournament Encourages Children to Spend Quality Time with their Families

Millburn – The summer months are filled with warmer temperatures and plenty of opportunities for families to get outdoors and spend more valuable time together. As an effort to motivate families to spend time with their children to keep them off drugs, The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is holding the first “Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs” Online New Jersey Family Fishing Tournament. The contest will be from August 21 to August 30.

Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ said, “In the summertime, children are out of school leaving them with more free-time and more vulnerable to engage in drug use. This Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Fishing Tournament encourages families to get involved in some summertime fun. Spending more time with family is the best way to keep children from drugs and continue living drug-free.” According to Valente, kids who communicate regularly with their parents about their daily activities are 67 percent less likely to be involved in substance abuse than children who have little or no communication. “In a world where children constantly stay plugged into technology, a day of fishing will be a nice break and drive families to talk with one another more about their daily activities,” Valente said.

To participate in the contest, entrants must be 18 years of age or younger and be accompanied by a parent or guardian while fishing. While enjoying a fishing trip with family, take a picture of your family with a caught fish along with PDFNJ’s “Don’t’ Get Hooked” logo, and the hashtag #dontgethooked. Pictures can be posted by liking PDFNJ’s Facebook page at Drug-Free NJ or by following PDFNJ on Twitter and Instagram. The “Don’t Get Hooked” logo is available in a printable format to download or ensure the electronic version is in the photo.

All entries must be submitted no later than August 31, 2015. A winner will be selected at random on September 1, 2015 and will be eligible to win over $600 in cash prizes.

Best known for its statewide anti-drug advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a private not-for-profit coalition of professionals from the communications, corporate and government communities whose collective mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in New Jersey through media communication. To date, more than $50 million in broadcast time and print space has been donated to the Partnership’s New Jersey campaign, making it the largest public service advertising campaign in New Jersey’s history. Since its inception the Partnership has garnered over 46 Advertising and Public Relations Awards from National, Regional & Statewide Media Organizations.

August 6, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 6, 2015 8:34 AM Subject: BHCFA Report

The fishing in Beach Haven has been a mix of types of fish along with sizes including small fish, large fish, and some in between.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky has been keeping his boat the “Reel Determined” busy for the past week. He had a group out fishing in the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club’s annual White Marlin Invitational Tournament last weekend. He had one nice white marlin hooked up Friday afternoon but could not get it to the boat. His main excitement came from a 400-pound manta ray with an 8-foot wingspan that was hooked and brought to the boat.

Captain Ray Lopez had local Bob Stewart and Noah and Gabriel, a father and son team, out for a fun filled day of fluke fishing. Cool ocean temperatures slowed the bite at first, but they found warmer water in the inlet. Ten year old Gabriel caught his first keeper fluke.

Captain Bob Gerkens of the “Hot Tuna” reports the bigeye tuna bite is still on. An evening trip to a southern canyon produced three bigeyes ranging from 155 to 200 pounds. The charter was arranged by Nick Garofolo for his sons Nick, Scott, and Trevor. Each got to fight and land their first bigeye under the tutelage of mate Dante Soriente.

Captain Gary Dugan of the “Irish Jig” reports his fluke bite over the past weekend was improving as he was seeing more fish on the ends of the lines. The big fish of the weekend was a 7-pounder caught by Gail Brandli who was fishing with the Beltram party. The only thing holding Captain Gary back at times has been slow drifts.

Captain Carl Sheppard of the “Starfish” and his party had a good time on Sunday when they found themselves in the midst of a school of spinner sharks which were jumping out of the water. The sharks ranged mostly from 3-5 feet in length with a couple a little larger. They had one hooked up and brought it to the side of the boat where they estimated it at 5.5 feet long.

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

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

August 3, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Aug 3, 2015 9:16 PM Subject: Reports august 3rd pajama man

Miss Billy and Jane at the Ancient Mariner! Hit three keeper kingfish off the Sea Spray beach and a surprise monster blow fish or blow toad as they call them in the outer banks, all set free to mingle with seven thousand 12 inch dogfish caught putting smiles on all the under 3 foot children we passed them on to. Sunshine, smiles and oh yes sunburn, Love LBI… for 40 years.

~ Capt Ron R.

August 2, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Yes, we do have Bloodworms back in stock!

Jersey Coast Angler Association – JCAA’s 21st Annual Fluke Tournament – August 1, 2015

Below are the preliminary results of the JCAA fluke tournament. Please let JCAA know if any corrections need to be made. It expect to be finalized by Monday night as data is being double checked. Congratulations to the winners and thank you for supporting JCAA. It looks like Dan Nykyforuk of Manchester was the big winner, sweeping his port’s and the overall Calcuttas with his 10.72 lb. doormat. Dan will take home a total of $11,000 and a free mount of his fluke. Prizes will be presented to all the winners at our awards ceremony at the Holiday Inn in Manahawkin on Wednesday, 08/12/2015.

~ Paul Haertel, President JCAA

2015 JCAA Fluke Tournament – PRELIMINARY RESULTS for WINNERS FOR 2015

* $50. Port Calcutta Winners

** $100. Port Calcuta Winners
*** $50 AND $100. Overall Calcutta

Winner

1. Jersey City

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Mitchell, Chuck *
Wantage, NJ
15
8.48
28.00
2nd
Murphy, Thomas **
Bayonne, NJ
160
7.91
28.00
3rd
Kelly, Robert
Jersey City, NJ
137
6.70
26.00
4th
Karp, Harvey
Kearny, NJ
148
6.43
26.25
5th
Gonzales, Tony
Bayonne, NJ
279
6.34
25.75
6th
Masso, Cody
Fairview, NJ
172
5.77
24.50
7th
Cordano, Daniel
Bayonne, NJ
187
4.22
23.00
8th
Radossi, Sergio
Ridgefield Park, NJ
228
2.86
20.00
9th
None

10th
None

48.71
201.50
2. Sandy Hook

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Nykyforuk, Dan * ** ***
Manchester, NJ
195
10.72
28.75
2nd
Croker, Scott
East Hanover, NJ
267
9.17
27.50
3rd
Halley, Mike
Malvan, PA
65
6.70
26.75
4th
Zastocki, Ron
Old Bridge, NJ
136
6.50
26.00
5th
Moskal, Robert
Scotch Plains, NJ
145
5.46
25.25
6th
Porter, Robert
Hanover, NJ
93
5.15
23.50
7th
Van Winkle, Tom
Lang Horne, PA
98
4.10
22.38
8th
Swartz, Dale
Pottstown, PA
53
4.07
23.00
9th
Flood, John
Sparta, NJ
108
4.06
22.50
10th
Salerno, Frank
Jefferson, NJ
133
4.06
22.50

59.95
248.13
3. Shark River Inlet

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Kutiak, Craig * **
Jersey City, NJ
139
7.45
26.50
2nd
Henry, John
Robbinsville, NJ
58
6.52
26.00
3rd
Kwack, Steve

131
5.71
23.50
4th
Inzetta, Mike
East Brunswick, NJ
256
5.29
23.00
5th
Yaccarino, John
Jackson, NJ
264
4.80
22.25
6th
Bolz, Lenny
Bordentown, NJ
144
4.28
22.75
7th
Carr, Ed
Wall Twp, NJ
130
4.14
22.75
8th
Temple, Chuck
North Hanover, NJ
6
4.10
22.50
9th
Hoyer, Chris
Chesterfield, NJ
217
4.09
21.50
10th
Olsen, Hans
Franklin Park, NJ
28
3.98
22.00

50.36
232.75

4. Manasquan River

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Murdza, Robert * **
Wall, NJ
208
6.29
25.00
2nd
Riccio, Mario
Brick, NJ
226
6.19
24.75
3rd
Catalano, John
Manahawkin, NJ
155
6.12
24.75
4th
Eckhardt, Chuck
South Plainfield, NJ
164
6.05
24.50
5th
Soloman, Rob
Milltown, NJ
189
5.97
25.50
6th
Cunlitte, Tom
Manasquan, NJ
89
5.70
24.75
7th
Pangaldi, Dave
Hamilton, NJ
100
5.55
24.00
8th
Miktus, Jack
Brick, NJ
32
5.29
24.00
9th
Spinella, Bob
Boonton, NJ
281
5.20
24.00
10th
Kruss, Dave
Barnegat, NJ
205
5.20
23.50

57.56
244.75
5. Barnegat Bay

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Schacht, Walter *
Beachwood, NJ
20
7.56
26.00
2nd
Blackburn, James
Toms River, NJ
142
6.21
25.50
3rd
Heath, Brian
Roselle Park, NJ
62
6.06
24.50
4th
Pasko, Rich
Lanoka Harbor, NJ
46
6.05
24.00
5th
Fraser, Colin
West Orange, NJ
152
5.54
23.50
6th
Dooley, Kyren **
Forked River, NJ
97
5.14
23.00
7th
Osbourne, Bob
Springfield, NJ
109
5.05
24.50
8th
MonteForte, Mark
Barnegat, NJ
72
4.45
23.00
9th
Farrell, Jack
Burlington, NJ
101
4.29
22.25
10th
Itjen, Doug
Barnegat, NJ
60
3.45
21.00

53.79
237.25
6. Long Beach Island

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Cliver, Keven
Sellersville, PA
255
6.82
25.50
2nd
Merlino, John **
Burlington, NJ
220
5.90
25.50
3rd
Paolella, Dean *
Springfield, NJ
77
5.50
23.00
4th
Wolfberg, Jack
Fort Washington, PA
250
5.30
25.00
5th
Costanzo, Nick
Jackson, NJ
190
5.19
25.00
6th
Glover, Archie
Surf City, NJ
201
4.70
22.50
7th
Meckley, Joseph
Marlton, NJ
275
4.66
23.50
8th
McCarthy, Keith
Tuckerton, NJ
157
4.46
21.50
9th
Phillips, Richard
South Hampton, NJ
191
4.35
24.00
10th
Browne, William
Toms River, NJ
67
3.84
21.00

53.72
236.50
7. Great Bay

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Muinos, Frank
Little Egg Harbor, NJ
176
4.68
22.75
2nd
Daunoras, Joseph *
Little Egg Harbor, NJ
135
4.55
24.00
3rd
Potts, Roger
Lanoka Harbor, NJ
99
4.50
22.50
4th
Reese, Jeff
Mays Landing, NJ
265
4.28
23.00
5th
Olswfski, Tony **
Florence, NJ
178
4.12
22.50
6th
Hoffman, Pat
North Hanover, NJ
197
3.78
21.75
7th
Hiott, William
Cinnaminson, NJ
105
3.41
21.00
8th
Sullivian, Rick
Browns Mills, NJ
266
2.93
20.00
9th
Kosty, Shannon
Philadelphia, PA
125
2.13
18.50
10th
Quinlan, Larry
Linden, NJ
52
1.80
18.00

36.16
214.00
8. Ocean City

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Burgess, Richard
Avalon, NJ
22
4.15
22.38
2nd
Smith, Brian *
Sewell, NJ
90
4.01
23.00
3rd
Fitzick, Tim
Somers Point, NJ
168
3.83
21.75
4th
Sajtlava, Thomas
Monroeville, NJ
231
3.71
21.12
5th
Hare, Kevin
Broomall, PA
41
3.03
20.12
6th
Kasprzak, Francis
Collingswood, NJ
199
2.85
19.25
7th
None

8th
None

9th
None

10th
None

21.57
127.62
9. Cape May

Name
Hometown
Entry Number
Weight
Length
1st
Slobodjian, George *
Aston, PA
73
7.17
26.00
2nd
McFarland, Jason **
Palerno, NJ
210
6.71
25.12
3rd
Steinberg, Howard
, PA
111
5.98
24.75
4th
Wentz, Kain
Pennsburg, PA
219
3.87
21.88
5th
Prescott-Ezickson, Robert
Long Branch, NJ
33
3.03
20.63
6th
Skipskipee, Greg
Berlin, NJ
116
2.97
20.63
7th
Simcox, William
Northwales, PA
75
1.90
18.00
8th
None

9th
None

10th
None

31.63
157.01

Total Weight/Length-Ft

318.60
1488.26

Received: Aug 2, 2015 8:11 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters

Anglers aboard the “Reel Fantasea” continue to see light tackle action with a sporty mix of schoolie stripers, bluefish and fluke. Barnegat Bay has yet to see anything in the way of “the backbay variety” that we have grown accustomed to seeing but I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

Sea Bass is now officially closed until October 22 but should be “ripe for the picking” by then. Some of the small rock piles and wrecks are holding a mix of keeper blackfish, trigger fish and porgies to add to some of the variety of the ocean species.

I do have a Friday morning available for anyone looking to get out on the brine for some fun light tackle rod bending action.

With the calendar turning the page to August our Fall season is not in the too far distant future.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: Aug 2, 2015 4:16 PM Subject: Old Barney Charters 8/2 report

Fishing continues to remain hot in the bay channels on certain tides and along the ocean beaches. The fluke should soon begin to take up space around area wrecks and begin feeding heavily to make their trek out to their migrating grounds.

On Tuesday, Ed McGinnis of Ed’s Lead returned for another charter with wife Cheryl to celebrate their 24th wedding anniversary. Celebrate they did with a great mixed bag catch. They limited on sea bass to 18″, 2 nice tog at 16″, 2 ling, and 3 fluke to 23″.

Wednesday, Ed was back again, this time with his sons Brock and Conner and friend Mike. The group worked hard but zero wind made for tough anchoring and a poor bite. The sea bass were small and the bite was slow. They added 3 nice sea bass and a couple ling. We headed to 40 ft. of water off the bathing beach but there was zero drift. Worked the channels near the lighthouse and added 2 fluke at 19″ and 19.5″.

On Saturday, fished the Stafford Hook n’ Ladder fluke tournament with John Figaniak and Brett Taylor from Reel Reaction charters. We worked hard and ended the day with 7 keeper fluke to 21.5″. Unfortunately, this did not place us in the fluke category. We did win the bluefish division with a 3-lb. bluefish caught in the inlet.

This upcoming week I am booked solid. The 2nd and 3rd weeks of August are my last before school begins and I do have availability for fluke and hopefully some bonito at the ridge once the water cleans up. All tackle, bait, ice, and fish cleaning available. Email or call to book.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

August 1, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Jersey Coast Angler Association – JCAA’s 21st Annual Fluke Tournament – August 1, 2015
Register by 7/20/15 to have a shot at the *$25K cash prize – *Full JCAA Details at www.jcaa.org
Rules & Regs… www.jcaa.org/tourney/FlukeRules.htm
Mail-In Entry… www.jcaa.org/tourney/FlukeForm.pdf
Online Entry… www.jcaa.org/tourney/FlukeForm_EB.htm
Buy T-Shirts… www.jcaa.org/merchandise/FlukeTees.htm

Port Log: Long Beach Island – Weigh Station: Fisherman’s Headquarters…

PORT LOG – 2015 JCAA FLUKE TOURNAMENT – 08/01/2015
Port: Long Beach Island – Weigh Station: Fisherman’s Headquarters
Place
Entry Number
Registered Angler’s Name
Caught By Angler’s Name
Caught By Angler’s Hometown, State
Weight (lbs)
Length (in)
1
255
Cliver, Kevin
Cliver, Kevin
Sellersville, PA
6.82
25.50
2
220
Hiros, William
Merlino, John
Burlington, NJ
5.90
25.50
3
77
Paolella, Dean
Paolella, Dean
Springfield, NJ
5.50
23.00
4
250
Wolfberg, Jack
Wolfberg, Jack
Fort Washington, PA
5.30
25.00
5
190
Costanzo, George
Costanzo, Nick
Jackson, NJ
5.19
24.00
6
201
Glover, Archie
Glover, Archie
Surf City, NJ
4.70
22.50
7
275
Meckley, Joseph
Meckley, Joseph
Marlton, NJ
4.66
23.50
8
157
McCarty, Keith
McCarty, Keith
Tuckerton, NJ
4.46
21.50
9
191
Phillips, Richard
Phillips, Richard
South Hampton, NJ
4.35
24.00
10
67
Browne, William
Browne, William
Toms River, NJ
3.84
21.00
11
112
Rust, Edward
Rust, Brian
Moorestown, NJ
3.75
21.25
12
184
Paetzold, Jeff
Paetzold, Jeff
New Lisbon, NJ
3.58
21.00
13
132
Keple, Mark
Keple, Mark
Manahawkin, NJ
2.95
20.00
14
233
Carey, Tim
Carey, Tyler
Lincroft, NJ
2.57
18.75
2:00 PM

We received our first angler’s data for the JCAA Fluke Tournament at 12:58 PM from Kevin Cliver who weighed-in a 6.820# Fluke. Along with that he also had a 6.225# Fluke. The fish where caught on live bait while fishing Barnegat Bay areas.

Gee, I wonder if it was those live snappers that were used to land these fish… Read 12:00 Noon report below.

12:00 Noon

There are a lot shorts being caught in the ocean and back bay. They are being caught bucktailing and jigging with the bait choice being squid, spearing, gulp, or minnows. Some decent size fish being caught in the mix. Sharks are being caught off of the surf. The water temperature has dropped. Because of the cooler waters. There is not much to say in the way of Kingfish being caught. The South Jetty has produced a few Fluke and these were mostly shorts. Bucktails and teaser combo tipped with live minnows or gulp works. Some bluefish up to five pounds being caught were reported. Fisherman live lining snappers are catching nice size fluke. Cocktail blues up to two pounds being caught during first light and last light.

July 31, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Jersey Coast Angler Association – JCAA’s 21st Annual Fluke Tournament – August 1, 2015

The Jersey Coast Anglers Association’s (JCAA) fluke tournaments is this Saturday, 8/1. JCAA already has 242 entrants and have collected a total of over $16,000 for the various Calcutta’s. Those interested may register up until mid-night on 7/31. Registrations are being accepted online at www.jcaa.org or by phone. Phone the office at 732-506-6565 or our tournament director, Paul Turl on his cell at 609-709-9215. Someone should be in our office until 9PM pre tournament. Good luck and thank you for your support. Please share this post.

~ Paul Haertel President, JCAA

Received: Jul 31, 2015 9:00 PM Subject: LBI charters 7/31

We ended the spring/summer sea bass season with more of the same. Boat limit of sea bass all big blue males for Kevin, Kevin, and David. Group added 9 ling a keeper tog and and a keeper cod before targeting triggerfish where they added 9 to the box and released another 4 or 5. Was a great sea bass season hate to see the closure but we will be back on them on October 22.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: Jul 31, 2015 12:06 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

The fishing turned on this past week with a nice bite on fluke off IBSP, but there are still some fish inside. With the steady south winds we had a pocket of colder water-60F, and that turned on some of the resident striped bass on artificials. Regarding offshore, I heard from some other captains that you don’t hit clean water until about 40+ miles, so hopefully that changes to bring in some pelagic life to the Ridge.

This past week, I had Ellington Smith of Wilmington, DE and his grandson Jordan Gannon (age 10) of Las Vegas, NV on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter targeting blues and fluke. First, we worked the inlet for bluefish but only had two hookups which were lost by the rocks. We moved to some areas that have been holding fluke and fished the remaining time in these areas. The fluke were biting and I had both bucktailing with the S&S Bigeye, and young Jordan ending up putting 3 of the 4 keepers in the boat. Among the 15-20 shorts, the pair ended up with 4 keepers to 21.5 inches and 2 bluefish.

Next up, was John Cabala and his girlfriend Daidra Carsman of River Vale, NJ along with John’s son Shane for a 4hr Bay and Inlet trip. Since the trip started in the afternoon, the south wind was cranking pretty good and only gave us a few viable locations to drift. We had to work a variety of locations to find biting fluke with the recent influx of cold water. We had a lot of short fluke, probably close to 25-30 and 1 lone keeper (18 inch) caught by Daidra working one of the back channels.

I had return client Pete Aubuchon of Philadelphia, PA along with his daughter Maria on a 4hr bay/inlet trip. We worked the inlet area throwing soft plastics and both went 5 for 9 on striped bass with the biggest being 26 inches. This was both Pete and Maria’s 1st ever striped bass – awesome job!! Pete had a much larger bass (most likely keepable), but it became unbuttoned at the boat – with the lure still intact and no teeth marks (definitely bass). After the bite died out, we worked some prime spots for fluke and ending with close to 40 shorts and 3 keepers (18, 18.5, 19).

I have a 2 days open this upcoming week (Wed 8/5 & Thurs 8/6) for either bay, ocean, or can taylor the trip to suit your needs. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website (www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

July 30, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 30, 2015 10:29 AM Subject: Open Boat Tomorrow (Fri) Afternoon/Evening

Sailing Open Boat tomorrow (Fri, July 31) afternoon/evening from 2:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Pickup and dropoff at Barnegat Light on this one. I can give you specifics when you call. Targeting schoolie stripers, blackfish, and blues at the inlet jetty. We will be chumming with live grass shrimp for the bass and tog. No sinkers. Just a baited hook drifted back to the jetty with 10 pound spinning gear. If you have never tried this, it is something to see. Just about all of the stripers are 20 to 26 inches but every once in a while we find a legal one. The blackfish vary in size from 1 to 4 pounds. We can throw lures at the inlet blues while we are waiting for the tide to shape up for our shrimping. $150 person, three people max, all fish are shared.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: Jul 30, 2015 7:44 AM Subject: LBI Charters Update

Had Charlie and Yanek out on Tuesday. Started in the deep with only short sea bass and 5 ling. made a move and boat limit of 12 big sea bass and a keeper pollock were added to the box. On Wednesday had Peter, Alex, Annie, Keenan, and Nick out. Very good fishing with boat limit of 14 sea bass 2 blackfish and a keeper cod. Made a move inshore and added 4 keeper porgies and 8 triggerfish to the catch. Starting Saturday we will target fluke triggers and blackfish.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: Jul 29, 2015 11:25 PM Subject: BHCFA Weekly report

The past week proved to be a successful one for the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association with decent action both inshore and offshore.

The “Starfish” under Captains Vic Bertotti and Cark Sheppard has been catching fish on the inshore artificial reefs and wrecks. During the week Captain Vic has been catching keeper black sea bass and fluke on the reefs. Captain Carl tried trolling south through the Lobster Hole. They found the fishing slow and dropped down on a wreck for a nice load of sea bass. Another trip to a wreck resulted in 10 keeper sea bass to 17-inches.

Captain Bob Gerkens boated some world class golden tilefish on the “Hot Tuna.” A trip for inshore bluefin tuna did not produce and they headed to one of the Southern canyons experiencing an evening bite of bigeyes. His party picked up 20 mahi-mahi on light tackle near lobster pots before setting up for tile fishing on the canyon wall. The first tilefish was a nice 35-pound fish, and the second a monster 60-pounder. At dark they trolled for bigeyes and boated one fish, missing several others. The last fish of the night tired out all of the anglers until it was brought to the boat. It broke the rod and line at the boat and was estimated at 80-inches and 300-pounds.

Captain Ray Lopez had his daughter and junior mate Max Goldman out on the “Miss Liane” on a training trip to the reefs where they caught and released 75 short fish and brought home three nice fluke and a sea bass. Another day Captain Ray had the McTague party out. They managed two keeper fluke along with tons of short fish.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky had the “Reel Determined” on a reef trip and picked up six keeper fluke and many throwbacks to keep the crew busy. The next day he took the boat to the canyons looking for bigeye tuna. After a smooth trip the afternoon bite was slow, but the evening action was hot. Bob Greiss boated a 223 pound tuna after a 50 minute fight. Later Steve Burrows managed to bring in a 143 pound tuna. In addition, the crew brought an 8-foot hammerhead shark to the boat which was released.

Captain Lindsay Fuller had the Forse family out on the “June Bug” for some wreck fishing south of Little Egg Inlet. They picked up a few short fluke before heading to the northwest corner of the Garden State South reef. After catching more shorts, 7-year-old Matt Forse boated a 22-inch fluke. Another day Captain Lindsay had the Simpson party out for some inshore trip. They managed short fluke, a small brown shark, and some sea robins.

Captain George Finck of “Sparetime” Charters reports he had many trips this past week with good catches of sea bass and fluke. His anglers enjoyed the good weather and calm seas. Captain George was quick to praise his young fishermen citing 13-year-old Chris DeCarlo for outfishing the adults on his trip.

The Junior Mate Training class had an exciting class recently when US Coast Guard Petty Officer Ben Watson presented a program on water safety. Areas covered included “man overboard,” proper use of a radio in event of a problem, sea preparedness, and prevention of problems. Assisting was CG Auxiliary member Michael Cocciolillo.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~Jim Hutchinson Sr.

July 29, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 29, 2015 11:31 AM Subject: Striped Bass Bonus Program Reopens September 1

The Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP) will reopen on September 1 and the Party/Charter Boat (PCBT) facet of the SBBP will be reinstated. Applications for individuals and PCBTs are currently being accepted.

For information and to apply for a permit visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/bonusbas.htm on the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife’s web site.

July 27, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 27, 2015 8:09 PM Subject: Fishing Report from our first offshore run Saturday July 25

The Hi-Flier had a full Open Boat trip to Barnegat Ridge Saturday, July 25. We had John Mazzone from Wayne, Lenny Araneo of Barnegat, and Chris Sakoutis of Staten Island aboard. Ropes were thrown at 5 AM and we departing Bob’s Bay Marina in Barnegat and throttled up for Barnegat Ridge North. When we arrived the water was ugly green so I didn’t even put the lines out. We ran another 17 miles east to the Resor Wreck which also had poor quality water, no birds, no life, so we just kept trekking east. A few miles shy of the Atlantic Princess we saw the water turn one shade better, not great, but better. I started putting out the seven rod spread one at a time and in that short time the water turned blue. Like blue, blue! That alone raised morale and my adrenaline was through the roof. At least we were fishing now. Even if we don’t catch, we’re in the right water, dragging the right stuff. There were three scallop draggers working the area, chick birds hitting the water here and there, a few good readings, a sea turtle. A guy on the radio had just boated a good size bluefin and in an effort to help his buddy find him, he referenced the same scallop boats we were working! Things were looking good. Except, no hits. We worked the area over for a few hours without a touch. As we circled around, Lenny caught a glimpse of some surface action off the bow. We took a swing by what looked like small skippies or boohoo mackeral splashing and feeding. Just as the last lure passed the commotion, the 50W International up in my t-top holder was screaming line out. I only had two rods up there, a way back ballyhoo, and a rainbow spreader bar. From the sound of the runoff, I was sure a big bluefin had just inhaled the ballyhoo but when I went to grab the rod out of the tree it was the spreader bar that was on. Whatever, we’ll take it. John grabbed the rod from me and went to work on this fish for 25 minutes. As the fish got near, I warned him about getting the rod out of the gimbal belt, as the fish will be deep and spiraling under the boat. But that didn’t happen. Instead I saw the rainbow spreader bar streaking from one side of the boat to the other… on the surface! Now I’m thinking I’ve got to gaff this “green” (very much alive) tuna while he streaks by the boat, …except as he gets close enough, it’s not a tuna… It was a Wahoo! And not just any wahoo, it was massive. Lenny leadered him and I stuck this six foot long beast with a headshot. Lenny added gaff #2 and after a briefing with my crew about how dangerous this fish is to have onboard, a 93 pound wahoo hit the deck. One hit, one fish, turned our whole trip around.

Here’s a few minutes of video as we land him that Chris shot on her IPAD. Sorry about the language and lack of composure, but I really wasn’t expecting a Wahoo! : www.youtube.com/watch?v=iE4jl9pvXSk

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

FLUKE CUTBACKS LOOMING
The Fisherman Magazine By Jim Hutchinson, Jr.

Just when you thought fluke were going strong, significant new reductions are suddenly on the horizon.

Link to Article…
www.thefisherman.com/index.cfm?currentpage=1&fuseaction=feature.display&feature_ID=1172&ParentCat=2&start=0#sthash.MYbtU1

– Page one gives the synopsis
– Page two goes into detail on how we got here
– Page three says where we can go from here

Please visit Save The Summer Flounder Fishery Fund (SSFFF) at www.ssfff.net/ and if possible make a donation.

Please read and Pass On Info to fellow anglers – Thank you

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posting Date July 28, 2015 – “FishHead Greg from Fisherman’s Headquarters points to the lower island surf for nocturnal encounters with brown, dusky and sand tiger sharks, with browns on the bayside behind Holgate. In the mix are B-52 cownose rays. Live eels and mackerel and bunker chunks on the store’s Ghetto Shark Rig are being crushed. The Beach Haven public dock is a great access point, but Fishhead urges courtesy as it can get a bit crowded with after dark shark aficionados. Bayside fluking is spotty with keepers more prevalent in and around the inlet, and these are nailing bucktail/Gulp and jighead/Gulp presentations. Triggerfish are putting the dentition to clam and squid along the south jetty and there is the rare-but-there legal tog being derricked onto the rocks. Crabbing the bay and lagoons is very good.”

July 26, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 26, 2015 4:02 PM Subject: Old Barney Charters Report – Excellent Fluke Bite

Ocean fluke fishing is really heating up and we were in on the action along the beach this week.

On Monday had Dr. Newman, Izzy, and Max. The group managed 30+ fish in 3 hours of fishing, including a fat 23″ and 18″ fluke.

On Friday had Ed McGinnis and John Figaniak out for an open boat. We fished the ocean and had 40+ fluke, all biting bright colored Gulp!. Ended with 5 nice fluke that went 23″, 23″, 19″, 18.5″, and 18″. Also added a cocktail blue and sea bass.

On Saturday had returning charter Kyle Smith, Anthony, Dave, and Mike out for another great day. Hit a wreck for an hour and had our limit of sea bass, 7 ling, and a nice tog. Came closer to beach to get on the great fluking and ended the day with 4 fluke that went 24″, 22″, 19.5″, and 19″. Many fish were just shy of the 18″ mark.

This upcoming week I only have Wednesday available for charter and I have 2 spots left for a 5hr. open boat fluke/sea bass charter on Friday (last day for sea bass) – $100 pp. Call to reserve a spot.

Fishing looks to continue to stay good and now is time to get in on the action.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

July 25, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 25, 2015 8:01 PM Subject: LBI Charters 7/25

Had an open boat trip with Vince, Cal, David and Kevin out today. Drop and reel fishing at its finest. Many double headers and size was very good. Cal had largest sea bass close to 4 lbs with the rest of the fish that we kept pushing 3 lbs. Added 2 keeper blackfish 11 ling and a short cod to out boat limit of 12 sea bass with many other keeper sized fish released.

Running another open boat trip Monday. Already have 2 so we are going. 125 per person leaving at 6:30 AM and returning around noon.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: Jul 25, 2015 8:18 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

The fluke in the back have been very picky and you have to work a lot of areas to find a keeper, it seems most are spread out among the short fluke. I did run to two reef sites this past week, but it was extremely slow on fluke. But that could change with the winds and based on my log books these areas should be popping with fluke this time of year. I heard a sputtering of reports of Bonita at the Ridge, but no real concentration or volume.

So here is the rundown for this past week’s trips:

I had Al Bidwell of Apalachin, NY, his son Brian, and family friends Peter and Laura Holbus on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. We started working the inlet for 1-5lb bluefish on artificials and we had them instantly with multiple hookups. Unfortunately, after a few drifts one of the group members got a little green and we had to head to the backwater leaving the blues biting, We moved from spot to spot picking away at the short fluke. Brian almost struck first bucktailing a nice fluke, but unfortunately lost it at the surface prior to netting the fish. Al bucktailed a nice 19.5 incher that made it’s way to the box. The crew did a great job and had an awesome morning on Barnegat Bay. Note: We also hooked into 3 rays that couldn’t be identified – only by nearly spooling our light-tackle setups.

Next up was return client Art Diebel, his two sons Bruce and Walter, and his daughter Nell on a 5hr Ocean Charter. We started fishing closer to shore and found fish right away boxing one 19inch fluke and a bunch of short fluke and skates. As I moved offshore, we saw a few pods of dolphins, chick birds, and even a pair of fin whales (possibly – hard to identify) – lots of sea life. We hit another area that was holding sea bass and fluke and our first drift produced 3 keeper sea bass and short fluke. We had to leave them biting with sea-sickness settling into one of the crew, and headed closer to shore, but ultimately had to move to the bay. The foursome caught and saw a wide variety of marine life today: possibly fin whales, common dolphins, bluefish, sea robin, skate, fluke, sea bass, triggerfish and cow-nose rays.

Later in the week, I had return client Bob Cipolla, his son Chris, and their family friend Chuck Kreiger who was up from Florida on vacation. We jigged a variety of locations within 2 reef sites. The crew put a limit of sea bass in the box, but could only muster short fluke just below the 18inch mark. They also picked up ling, and some short sea bass. Nice job with a great day on the water.

I was able to get out and do some personal fishing, and with a day off from running a boat I could concentrate on working the bucktail for some fluke. I fished with fellow Forked River Tuna Club member Paul Lenzo on his boat, and also with FRTC member Harry Boldt. We fished two primary locations offshore of IBSP and ended the day with 9 keeper fluke up to 5+lbs and 1 lone 15inch sea bass, and over 40 short fluke. Most of the keepers were caught on the S&S Rattletail jig tipped with Gulp and minnows. Great day on the water with both and thank you Paul.

I do have a few openings in the next couple of weeks, and are available for charter 7 days a week. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709. As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

6:00 AM

There are still sharks being caught off the surf. It will continue into September so there is plenty of time left. The best bet is to pay close attention to the water temperatures. If the surf is 70 degrees or above it will be or should be good. July 19th to the 22nd we had a small up well which took the surf water temps south of 70 degrees. Recently the surf temp has came back up and yesterday was at 69-70 degrees. Expect it to stay consistent for a day or two and then it might drop Sunday/Monday with the forecast south south/westerly winds.

Both brown sharks as well as sand tigers among others like duskies and rays like warm water. The sand tigers tends to like the coolest water out of all. If the water is cool/cold I strongly suggest looking to fish the bayside on the south end of the island, unless you absolutely want to target a sand tiger (then hit surf). There are a variety of places. The easiest access which can also hold a number of anglers is the Beach Haven public dock. Located on the bay at the end of Dock road between the Boat House restaurant and the Ketch Bar/Club. Please fish with respect. Most nights there will be others there. Everyone works together and has fun. If you are going to fish the surf it is suggested fishing the south end of the island as well. Head down to Beach Haven or Holgate and fish one of the beaches preferably with a good jetty and a nice section of water.

If you need help getting geared up stop in the shop and ask for a Ghetto shark rig. All you will need in addition is some 80-100# mono leader, a sinker slide, bait and a sinker. The short shot of wire on the Ghetto rig is for tooth protection. You’ll need to tie on a 3-6′ length of heavy mono leader for skin, fin and tail chafe protection. The sinker slide need to go onto the heavy leader. As far as bait we try our best to have fresh bunker in daily as well as live eels and frozen mackerel. Some anglers catch cocktail blues or use fish carcasses.

NOTE: Both the sandbar shark (aka brown shark) and sand tiger sharks are on the prohibited species list. Anglers can not possess. Technically they cannot be removed from the water and must be released before landed.

~ FishHead.Greg

July 24, 2015 ———————————————————————–

KEEP AMERICA FISHING – MORE ETHANOL IS A MISTAKE

As you know, higher ethanol gasoline can be unsafe and make a mess of your boat engine. Now the government wants to raise the concentration of ethanol in gas even further.

Tell the Environmental Protection Agency to reduce the amount of ethanol that they proposed be used nationwide. There are only a few days left to Take Action and tell the Environmental Protection Agency that more ethanol is a mistake. The deadline is Monday, July 27 at 12pm. To send a message, simply complete the form… secure2.convio.net/asaf/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=306

Need more convincing? From Sid Dobrin of Inventive Fishing… keepamericafishing.org/action/take_action/ethanol-inventive-fishing/

…Please pass on the above information.

11:00 AM

While fluke fishing isn’t nearly what we would all like it to be right now, there are some quality fish around. Put in your time and reap the rewards. Chet puts in his fair share. Yesterday he got a good one! #FlukeFishing #FishLBI #FishermansHeadquarters… instagram.com/p/5hKmXVKxIS/?taken-by=fishermansheadquarters

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Jul 24, 2015 8:54 AM Subject: July 23rd Fishing Report

We had a great day fishing by Barnegat Inlet on Thursday Morning. Started off fishing poppers by the submerged rocks on the north jetty and caught three 2 lb bluefish and a 26 inch striper. We then headed north and fished 35 – 40 feet of water and caught 30 fluke with two of them being keepers (21 and 23 inches).

~ Jason M Wilk

July 23, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 23, 2015 9:20 PM Subject: Open Boat Barnegat Ridge

Not much to offer lately in the way of reports. The “Hi-Flier” has been laid up for repairs since Monday but I just got the phone call… she’s ready! And so am I.

I haven’t been to Barnegat Ridge yet this season and now we’re going. The forecast is light and variable from the east. That is perfection for offshore. Pushes the clean water in, gives a little surface ripple to make the lures skip better, and then we have it on our tail for the ride home. Targeting bonita but always hopeful for more. The Ridge is full of surprises this time of year. Could be bluefin tuna, mahi, albacore, mahi mahi, king mackerel, spanish mackerel, and sometimes none of the above. We are going to give it our best and then make a report. I’ve got a good feeling about this one.

Running Open Boat Barnegat Ridge this Saturday, July 25, 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM. $170 per person. 3 people max. All fish are shared.

Monday’s weather is looking good, too. I will see how we do Saturday.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: Jul 23, 2015 7:57 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Bay fluking has been hard to figure out this year. Even with that, we are approaching the time when the bay fluke start congregating in the channels and bars closer to the inlet. And let me tell you when they get there they will have plenty of forage to feast on! Small spearing are in abundance around and backside of Barnegat Inlet. The fluke will also have a good number of snapper blues to feed on. Yesterday morning 3-4” snappers where all over the east side of the dike, out into the channel and holes. Live snappers are an awesome bait when targeting bigger fluke. This time of year I’ll spend the time catching them on Sabiki rigs during a trip which increases the chance of putting fish in the box.

Ocean fluking along IBSP has been heating up. It has been a few years since we had a real good ocean fluke fishery along the beach. Let’s hope this is the year. Small bluefish continue to pop up around the inlet. I like to use the smaller ones for strip bait and the larger ones for inshore shark bait.

Oh, speaking of sharking, I had another successful “Off the Beach” shark trip this morning. In a short time we caught and released 3 brown (sand bar) and 2 dusky to about 4 and a half feet. Yes, a dusky was caught on my boat manufactured by Dusky. Dusky sharks and brown sharks look very similar. The dusky differs from a brown by having a shorter dorsal fin and the posterior (rear) portion of its pectoral fin is forward of the anterior (front) of the dorsal fin.

Crabbing remains very good in my part of the bay.

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

Received: Jul 23, 2015 9:43 AM Subject: BHCFA Weekly Report

This is the time of the year for big game fishing for boats sailing out of Beach Haven. Some of the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association have been doing well fishing offshore.

Captain Bob Gerkens of the “Hot Tuna” had a split charter of experienced anglers for a bigeye tuna evening-night troll at one of the southern canyons. They selected the night trip as the day troll has slowed. When they arrived in mid-afternoon they pulled some nice mahi-mahi from around some lobster pots on light tackle. They then geared up with the heavy tuna equipment. After a couple of hours of trolling they had a double hookup. A half hour later they had fish of 180 and 200 pounds in the boat. Capt Bob Gerkens was assisted by mate Dante Soriente and legendary bigeye fisherman Captain Mike Yocco of the boat “MJs.”

Captain Raymond Lopez and his daughter Liane of “Miss Liane Sportfishing” joined Captains Jimmy and Patrick Zavacky on the “Reel Determined” for an offshore trip to the canyons. The bite was slow in the morning but throughout the day they had three solid knockout downs. On the third one, Liane strapped on the fighting belt and took the rod. It was a team effort with Liane doing the reeling. She boated a beautiful 54-pound yellowfin tuna – her first. In addition to the tuna some small mahi were also caught.

The Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association will be holding a regatta on August 16 in memory of Captain John Koegler who passed away last winter. A caravan of boats will leave from Morrison’s Marina in Beach Haven and lay a wreath and flowers in one of John’s favorite fishing spots. Anyone wishing to participate should contact Captain Jimmy Zavacky at reeldetermined@comcast.net

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

July 22, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Yesterday, the inlet was 58 degree on the incoming tide. A customer who purchased a new fishing rod reported, “The inlet was full of schoolies cocktail bluefish. We had a blast. It was great until I snapped my old fishing rod.”

The surf temperature dropped a lot and it depressed what was a consistent shark bite. While there will be opportunity surf side (especially with sand tigers because they like slightly cooler water) those looking to get into the toothy critters should look towards the bayside.

Another customer who stopped in the shop yesterday reported that his wife and he were into to fluke pretty good. They were fishing the surf on the southern end of the island with bucktail and teaser rigs. “We had constant action, about 30 fish, 3 keepers.”

Offshore the reports have been very good. On a recent trip aboard the PEZ Machine the report was phenomenal, “…caught two monster big eyes and a mako as well as some other catches.”

Closer to home the inshore tuna bite is good too. Word is the bite turned on over the weekend at the Chicken Canyon and the waters inside of it. Forty to sixty pound class bluefin are feeding. The majority of the bite has been on the troll; however, with the amount of fish presently reported the chunk and jig/pop bite should be an option too.

~ FishHead.Greg

Date: Jul 22, 2015 7:27 AM Subject: LBI Charters Special Open Boat Trip

I don’t usually do open boats but will do one this Saturday 7/25. We will target sea bass ling and blackfish. Depending on time, may make a few drifts for fluke on way home. I have 2 confirmed already so the trip is a go. $125 per person up to 3 more people can go. 6 hour trip leaving at 7 AM. Call or text 856-264-0318.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

July 21, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posting Date July 21, 2015 – “The island beaches have been pretty good for fluke during the last of the incoming to high tide, but most are shorts with a few keepers mixed in,” informed a busy Blake from Fisherman’s Headquarters, adding that if it’s action you’re after, load up with 3/8- to 3/4-ounce jig heads, half- to 3/4-ounce bucktails and the white and chartreuse Gulp! Swimming Mullets and peruse the sands. He advises the white as the teaser 10 inches above the jighead or bucktail. Beach sharking under the stars is hot, with bunker and mackerel chunks off the sand while in the lower bay at Beach Haven a live eel is the best deal for a brown shark. Crabbing throughout the bay is very good, and around the Dutchman’s there are schoolie stripers to 26 inches whacking and smacking slowly worked 1/4- and 3/8-ounce bucktails.

Received: Jul 21, 2015 4:51 PM Subject: 7/22 LBI Charters Updaye

Had Jeff, Tanya, Chris, JJ, and Keenan out today. Headed back offshore in a swell and dead still ocean. Group counted and caught over 200 fish putting boat limit of 12 large sea bass 11 ling and a nice keeper cod in the box. Open this weekend and all next week so give a buzz or shoot an email and let’s go fishing.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: Jul 21, 2015 3:06 PM Subject: Fwd: 7/20 Old Barney Charters report

Had Dr. Seth Newman, daughter Izzy and son Max out for an ocean fluke trip today. In 3 hours of fishing the trio managed 30+ fish including a fat 23″ and an 18″ fluke. Fish wanted a variety today – minnows, squid, and all colors of Gulp! worked. Availability Thursday, Friday, and Sunday of this week for charter.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

July 20, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 20, 2015 4:13 PM Subject: Notice of Rule Proposal: Marine Fisheries

The NJ Department of Environmental Protection is proposing amendments to the rules governing the commercial blue crab fishery, the issuance of commercial crab pot and trot line licenses, the revocation and suspension of those licenses, and the nullification of reporting violations in limited circumstances with regard to suspension and revocation of those licenses. Proposed amendments also address various aspects of the blue crab, tautog, bluefish, black sea bass, and summer flounder fisheries.

For more information, including how to submit comments on the proposed changes, visit www.nj.gov/dep/rules/notices/20150720a.html on the DEP Rules web site.

July 19, 2015 ———————————————————————–

4:30 PM

Nick Quinn sent us this report, “I fished the north end surf this morning. Caught around two dozen fluke in a two hour session. Managed two keepers at 19″ and 23″ all catches were on on bucktails.”

We had a couple customers in the shop who were just in the from the Edge and also others gearing up to head off soon. Word is still strong with reports of big eyes at the southern canyons. The Wilmington has offered plenty big eye tuna in the dark this season. Lots of boats are enjoying the daytime hours loading up on tilefish.

Yesterday we got word from our bunker boat captain that there are a couple bonita mixed in with the bunker schools. He said most days the bunker have been way off the beach, usually 5-10 miles out.

There are resident schoolie bass (15-24″) and small blues chewing on spearing. Use small lures (slender metals) and bucktails to fool them to chew. Store staffer Nick said the inlet was boiling with bait. He has been getting in on the fun before swinging into work.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Jul 19, 2015 3:54 PM Subject: 7/18 LBI charters update

Had John, Steve, Pat and bachelor Shane out for a 4 hour trip today. Weeded through shorts and put boat limit of sea bass and 2 ling in the box. Plenty of bites but limits slow us down.

Give a buzz while we can still keep some sea bass before temporary closure on 08/01/15 until reopening 12/22/15.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

July 17, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Yes, Green Crabs are back in stock.

Received: Jul 17, 2015 5:32 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

We had some weather midweek, but we were able to make it out prior and got into some fluke action in the back. The bite has been slightly off this year, you need to work a lot of areas to find some keepers. It seems that the ocean bite is starting to take off and we might start probing some of our local snags for big doormats. The 2-5 lb bluefish have moved into the inlet area, and the sharking from the beach to the Ridge is off the hook.

This past week I had Steve Danastorg of Newtown PA, his son Ryan, and friends Nick Logue, Mike Reilly, and Chris Mahle on a 4 hr Bay and Inlet charter. Again, we had to work a variety of spots with the tide and finally we had very little wind to contend with. The group ended with 3 keeper fluke and one lone cocktail bluefish, among the short fluke and crabs. We had quite a few that were just shy of the 18 inch mark – hopefully anglers give them a chance to grow. Great job by the teenagers to get up early and fish!

Next up was return client Matt Bailey, his son Jay, daughter Madison, and their friend Damien Szlachta on a 4 hr bay and inlet charter. We started throwing artificials for bluefish and striped bass. We had all three kids hooked up on a bluefish a few times, and moved around to find a striper. We had one hook up most likely on a striper due to the soft plastic being untouched, but it became unbuttoned in the current. The crew kept some blues for surf shark bait and we left them biting as we moved to the back for fluke. Again, you had to move from spot to spot and had to weed through short fluke. The foursome ended up boating 2 keeper fluke. We had wind, sun, rain and the kids did a great job!

I do have a few openings in the next few weeks for bay or ocean fluking, inshore sharking, or Barnegat Ridge troll. We are available for charter 7 days a week. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com) or call 609-290-7709. As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

July 16, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:00 PM

Nick Garcia (12 years old) from Montclair, NJ stroked 2 Short Fluke and 1 Croaker this morning around 9:00a.m. They hit the bayside hard mid-island. The Fluke were CHOMPING on Canadian Spearing.

Received: Jul 16, 2015 4:20 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Today’s trip was cancelled due to wind so I had time to edit my video from the off the beach shark trip on Monday. Had Derek Bonk from Toms River on board for some exciting action with brown sharks, aka sandbar sharks, just a few miles off of Loveladies. Once the sharks were lured to our chum the action was non-stop! We were able to get four boat side for quick releases. The largest one was about 6’. Not going to try to estimate the weight since I do my best to quickly release them. Video link attached with some of the action. Water temperature off the beach was 75-76 deg and very clear. Also, good news is that there are 1-5 pound blues around the inlet. Seems like they feeding mostly on incoming tide, but as you know that can change tomorrow. View… youtu.be/6hMUNFrbQek

On the nature side: fall shorebird migration is right on time. Several species of shorebirds are already leaving for their journey to far away breeding grounds for the fall/winter. Kind of a hard concept to grasp when some have not even had their summer vacations yet. No calendar for Mother Nature 😉

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

10:00 AM

On the front beach; rays, sharks and fluke have been the main action off the surf. Also receiving a few reports of cocktail Bluefish (1-2 lbs) showing up. When these bluefish are in a feeding frenzy you may need to consider wire leader surf rigs for these toothy critters. We do have Tide Rite rigs with floats that can help bring in these little brutes. Once caught, keep on ice immediately, then as soon as possible clean and cook (don’t over cook) and you’ll be surprised how tasty these fish can be.

Striper reports have been quiet with most local action being from the bayside on schoolie size fish.

In his report below notice that Captain Lindsay Fuller of the “June Bug” was shark fishing around the Barnegat Ridge ridge area and also had bonito in his chum slick. These bonito are good eating and fun to catch. When chumming, if you are targeting these bonito (or smaller bluefish) you may need to consider lighter mono leaders and go down on your hook size using small spearing for bait. With the mono leader and smaller hooks you might be cut off often and miss a few hits but the more natural presentation should increase the level of action on these sometimes very line shy fish.

Received: Jul 16, 2015 7:09 AM Subject: BHCFA Weekly Report

The captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association have been putting most of their attention on summer flounder and offshore game fish in the past week.

The “Miss Liane” with Captain Ray Lopez headed out to the canyons for her first offshore trip of the year. They left the dock shortly after midnight and had lines in the water by 5am. Two yellowfin tuna were caught within the first 45 minutes. They then picked up three nice mahi- mahi around some lobster pots and missed out on a big one. Later they had a white marlin in the spread but it would not take a bait. They observed many signs of life in the canyons including sharks and porpoises.

Captain Bob Gerkens and mate Dante Soriente had the “Hot Tuna” out on a split charter to the mid-canyons. The bite was a bit slow. A white marlin attacked three of the baits but did not hook up. Most of the action came late in the day during the return in at approximately 15 miles inside the canyon. A large school of skipjack tuna with small yellowfin tuna under them was moving quickly towards a northern canyon. The party threw plugs and jigs on light equipment each time the Hot Tuna reached the school which resulted in numerous fun hookups.

Captain Lindsay Fuller had the “June Bug” out for several inshore trips recently looking for bluefish, fluke, and black sea bass. The Durcalec party worked hard for some bluefish but had trouble finding any other than some cocktail blues. They even traveled to the Barnegat Ridge where they tried chumming but only managed some bonito in the slick along with a big brown shark. The Bourakas family fished the Little Egg Reef hard and found action on short sea bass and fluke and some sea robins. They also brought a big brown shark to the boat. They fished with fluke rigs and Ava jigs tipped with various baits, but spearing seemed to work the best.

Captain George Finck of “Sparetime Charters” has been out several times this week. Tuesday he had the Spencer party out in the bay and inlet due to the threat of thunderstorms. They had a nice catch of fluke and lots of fun with a 20-pound bull nose ray

Captain Fran Verdi has been putting the hours on the “Francesca Marie” chasing fish. Captain Fran has had several fluke trips fishing wrecks and reefs close to shore and some in deeper water. The action has decent, but most of the fish have been throwbacks. He tried closer to home with the Pickert party and they put three keepers in the box. He made a trip on Sunday to the canyons looking for tuna. Leaving at 2 am, they had lines in the water at gray light. He saw signs of tuna and had a couple of big ones on but was unable to get the fish to the boat. They did hook up with a nice white marlin which they released. Captain Fran expects the ocean fluke bite to improve as the fish leave the bay waters on their annual migration.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~Jim Hutchinson Sr.

Received: Jul 16, 2015 7:17 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – 1 spot open for Friday 17th

I have one spot available for tomorrow Friday 17th, we will be targeting – black fish, stripers [schoolies] bluefish and fluke.
All bait and tackle included – $150.00 6 hrs – 7am – 1pm. Call only to reserve – 609-290-1217.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

July 15, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 15, 2015 9:18 AM Subject: Pez Machine Sportfishing — Big Fish Happen

Just a quick note to get the blood pumping with info on recent trips to the canyons.

Bigeye fishing and bottom fishing have been outstanding (17 boated bigeyes in last 7 trips!) and more yellowfins are starting to show up every day. It won’t long until great catches are put together on the chunk.

If you’re waiting to put a trip together in August you may have waited too long. We have the following available in August:

8/14-15 Overnighter
2 spots on our 8/10-11 Overnighter

September is filling up fast so reserve your trip now before your catch of a lifetime swims away!

~ Capt. Stew Hitchner Pez Machine Sportfishing 609.287.5136

July 14, 2015 ———————————————————————–

8:00 PM

Matt Polito tagged us in an Instagram post showing a handful of bluefish. His caption, ” Bluefish blitz on LBI by Beach Haven.” T he hash tags let is know he was fishing in the bay via boat.

4:00 PM

Austin Pounds gave us this solid report…

“Another great night… 3 sand tigers on the beach, 2 caught on the brand new Shimano and Penn Squall rod and reel setup I purchased and you spooled up for me. We got a 7′ weighing about 180, an 8′ weighing about 230-240 and then hooked into a massive 9’2″ well over a respective 270 pounds. Had a 56 inch girth… Teeth were about 2-1/2 inches longs. The bluefish you gave me was the hot bait. Used a whole carcass and it worked wonders. I really appreciate it, made my night. Thanks!” View… www.facebook.com/fishermans.headquarters/posts/1447178418923663:0

~ FishHead.Greg

July 13, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posting Date to be July 14, 2015 – “Greg from the Fisherman’s Headquarters told us fluke fishing off the beaches is starting to pick up on killie-squid combos fished on the top of the tide, especially when that tide occurs at sun up or in the early evening. Fluke fishing has also been good at Barnegat Inlet but you have to get through the shorts. Nick DeGennaro had a good pick of flatties off the beach on Saturday. As with most shops in the middle and lower part of the state we were told that brown and sand bar sharks are supplying some good fishing in the evenings off the beaches.”

Received: Jul 13, 2015 9:25 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters

Sorry for the missing reports but I have been busy getting caught up on some maintenance and running trips in between. Presently we are in the mix of summer fishing with a normal cast of characters .

Bluefish, stripers and fluke are making up the bulk of our catches. Yes, a few stripers are still hitting the cooler. Bluefish ranging in sizes of 2-7 lbs have been bending the rods and testing the light tackle. Fluke have been mostly short but the numbers of catch and release have added to the variety.

Blackfish/tog reopens this Friday [17th] which will be added to our target species. I have this Friday AM and PM available for anyone looking to get out and get in on the action.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: Jul 13, 2015 9:42 PM Subject: Old Barney Charters Report

We had a couple charters last week, one bay and one ocean. On Wednesday, 3rd year returning Pat St. George charter fished for fluke in the bay. Twins Rogan and Owen (8) and cousin Kira (7) worked for their fish and managed 1 keeper at 18.5″. They also saw their uncle John fight a cow nose ray in the inlet for some time before releasing him boat side.

Saturday had returning Losey and Pullar charter out in the ocean for sea bass and fluke. Fishing was fast and Ben (10), Jack (8), and Julia (8) were reeling within seconds of being anchored up. We had many short sea bass in the mix but caught our limit of quality sea bass in no time and then decided to fluke (against the kids’ advice because of how much fun they were having catching sea bass). We added a fat 22″ fluke to the box and called it a day. We had several other shorts but overall fluking on GSN was a little slow.

On a side note, with the flat calm seas Sunday, I took my wife and boys (3 and 5) on a trip up to NYC to see the Statue of Liberty up close. Awesome ride along the beach and a memorable experience aboard The Bonnie Anne.

We are out a couple times this week with no remaining charter availability until next week. Call or email to book a trip. All tackle, bait, fish cleaning, and ice provided.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

Received: Jul 13, 2015 12:34 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Bay temperature has risen into its typical summer setting of the low 80s while the ocean is holding around the 70s. Fluking remains the same. You have to work at putting a catch together and the best results have been the end of incoming to the beginning of outgoing.

In between several charters last week I instructed a class of Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs to a bunch of 1st to 5th graders though the Barnegat Township Recreation Department. On the last day we fished a local lake and I am proud to say every young angler caught a fish! Since this is Barnegat I do depart slightly from the national curriculum in that I spend part of the time teaching about crabs and how to crab. Speaking about crabbing, it is good to very good. A 6 hour soak on my two crab pots yesterday yield 15 keeper jimmies.

This week I have scheduled my first Off the Beach Sharking Trip. What this involves is light tackle sharking for 40 pound plus sharks just outside the surf line to a few miles off the beach. As far as I know I am the only guide in the area presently offering this exciting fishing adventure. So contact me for details if this is something that interests you.

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

July 12, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 12, 2015 11:14 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

We had some wind after the Independence Day Holiday weekend. which with the lessening of the full moon tides, made for some challenging drifting and fishing conditions. It was a busy week with mostly bay trips targeting fluke. The blowfish are not here in good quantities and also the blues are too small to target, so as far as bay fishing – fluke are the best game in town. We will start targeting fluke in the ocean as the waters have warmed up enough and they should be hanging around my favorite areas.

This past week, I had John Laub of New York, NY, his 2 daughters Haley and Lindsay, and their Pop-Pop Pete Risolo on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. Again, the full moon’s effects had a negative impact on the bite, but the 3 generations team was able to box to 2 keepers (18 and 19.5 inches). We had to work a lot of spots to finally find some fish that were cooperative. It’s amazing how they can change from bait to bait in a given day. Great job on a tough day fishing.

Next up, was Tim and Lisa Frasier of Grosse Point, MI along with their teenage sons Jack and Anthony on a 4hr Bay & Inlet charter. Well, it was windy with the South blowing at 10-15 knots with gusts to 21 knots. We did manage a pick of fish and boxed a nice, fat 20 inch fluke within the shadows of Old Barney. The family foursome did a great job in tough conditions.

Towards the end of the week I had Bob Rokas of Toms River and his two step-sons John and Jay Lewis of Waretown on a 4hr Bay & Inlet Charter. With the tide, we started towards the west side of the bay and picked at the fish using the S&S Roundhead jig tipped with Gulp and fresh bait. After working one of the channel edges, Jay scored on a beautiful 28 inch fluke which weighed close to 8 lbs. We make two more drifts over the same area, and Jay picks up a 29 inch fluke weighing over 9 lbs. We worked a few more areas and picked at the shorts and ending up picking up one more keeper at 19 inches. What an awesome day. Nice job!!

Last, I had returning client Andy Ead of Loveladies his son Jaiden, and Jaiden’s friend Aaron Shih on an afternoon 4 hr Bay & Inlet Charter. After the 1st trip in the morning, I expected we would have some fish on the incoming in the afternoon. Unfortunately, I had to work hard just to find some fish that would bite. We worked close to 8 different areas, but all we could muster were short fluke, a few sea robins, crabs, and a cow-nose ray that nearing spooled the line. Great job by boys for catching their first fluke by jigging bucktails.

I do have a few openings this week and the following week for either bay or ocean fluking. We are available for charter 7 days a week. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

Received: Jul 12, 2015 4:16 PM Subject: LBI charters weekend update

On Saturday had Stacey, Amy, Mike along with help from Jen and Kev out. Headed deeper than we’ve been fishing looking for ling to supplement out limited sea bass limit. We did find a dozen ling to go with out boat limit of 12 sea bass but the size of the sea bass made this trip. We were releasing 3 lb sea bass. Headed back out for a shark trip on Sunday with Dave Alex along with Kev. Had a small mako grab a bait twice but didn’t connect. No other bites.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

July 10, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 9, 2015 8:17 PM Subject: Stripers or Barnegat Ridge

Room on our Saturday afternoon trip for one angler. Two people already signed up. We will be chumming with live grass shrimp for stripers. Most are under 28 inches but a few are taping out on the legal side. All are a blast on the 10 pound spinning gear with no sinkers or terminal tackle, just a baited hook. Noon to 5 PM. $150.

Sunday and Monday, July 12 and 13, are available for charter or Open Boat. Forecast looks great. Light wind and calm seas. Storms have all blown through. We could scout out Barnegat Ridge for any of the bluewater fish. There could be bonita or school bluefin tuna there but I haven’t been there yet and I don’t have any reports to go on. We would be going in blind but that’s how reports are made. We could also stay inshore and chum the inlet jetty with shrimp for schoolie stripers.

Please call for more info.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

July 9, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 9, 2015 10:40 AM Subject: 58th Annual Fluke Tournament

58th Annual Forked River Tuna Club (FRTC) Fluke Tournament
August 15th – 22nd, 2015 – $10K High Stakes Grand Prize
$50 Entry Fee, Junior Anglers fish FREE with an Adult Entry

Captain’s Meeting: Friday, August 04th at 7:30 PM
Location: FRTC Clubhouse, 18 Bay Ave, Forked River
Door Prizes, Calcatta’s, 50/50, Sandwitches, Cash Bar

Awards Ceremony: Sunday, August 23, 2015 at 1:00 PM

Visit FRTC website www.forkedrivertunaclub.com for more details and information on upcoming tournaments, seminars, and fishing related events in our area.

Sign up online with a credit card at www.forkedrivertunaclub.com/annual.html
or mail a check or pay at the captain’s meeting on August 14th.

~ Forked River Tuna Club, Tournament Committee

Received: Jul 9, 2015 12:18 PM Subject: BHCFA Weekly Report

The Fourth of July has passed, in Beach Haven the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are operating at full speed ahead with trips both inshore and offshore.

On the Fourth, the “Reel Determined” with Captains Jimmy Zavacky and Ray Lopez headed out to Little Egg Reef with two fathers and sons. They found good action on the reef and the inlet where they caught two keeper fluke in addition to over 20 shorts. The next day the “Reel Determined” fished a wreck 8 miles out where they picked up some keeper fluke and sea bass.

Captain Ray Lopez had his boat the “Miss Liane” out with model Ashley Hass and her father Bob for his birthday. There was non-stop action on fluke and a big sand shark.

Captain Fran Verdi also did some fluke fishing on the “Francesca Marie.” He found lots of short fluke in addition to a couple for the box each trip. Most of the keepers were in the 18-19 inch Captain Fran is expecting an uptick in the fluke action on the inshore reefs in the near future.

Captain Gary Dugan of “Irish Jig Sportfishing” reports finding big, out of season, blackfish on the wrecks in addition to some nice sea bass. He has been fishing in Great Bay and the Garden State South and Little Egg Reefs. One trip in Great Bay resulted in five keeper fluke and one bluefish.

Captain Carl Sheppard has been running up to two trips a day to the inshore reefs and finding a wide variety of fish. Besides the expected fluke and black sea bass, he has been finding a good number of triggerfish and even a 17-inch porgy. He reports seeing many signs of life including porpoises and sharks. One giant thresher leaped next to the boat with a sea bass in its mouth with a sinker hanging from it. Captain Carl had a shark fishing trip where they caught some good sized brown sharks. After catching the sharks the anglers picked up some keeper sea bass.

Captain George Finck of “Sparetime Charters” has been reef fishing for fluke and sea bass. One day his trip with the Clearwater party was driven back into the inlet by some strong winds where they had a nice catch of fluke.

The “Hot Tuna” with Captain Bob Gerkens did a tuna run to a southern canyon where there had been a good bite of big eye tuna. Despite all signs of life, the tuna bite had slowed with over 60 boats fishing the area. Chris Martin of Trenton brought a white marlin to the boat and Scott Damiano picked up a mahi-mahi.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

July 8, 2015 ———————————————————————–

9:00 PM

Store staffer Nick D. had some fun this morning off the surf. He reported catching a few fluke and some blues bucktailing with Gulp!

We got another report from Austin Pounds, ” Fluke are everywhere in the surf. I fished along the jetties and even just random holes on the beach and pulled keepers out of both. Limited out with biggest being a fat 23 along with 30 plus fish.”

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Jul 8, 2015 12:02 PM Subject: JCAA Fluke Tournament – WIN $25K!!!

JCAA’s 21st Annual Fluke Tournament – August 1, 2015

Help Jersey Coast Anglers Association (JCAA), by please sharing this event invitation on your Facebook pages and on any groups that you belong to. Also please view and “Like” the JCAA Facebook . The JCAA thanks you for your support.

Register by 7/20/15 to have a shot at the $25K cash prize for the largest fluke over 12 lbs. Also new this year are port and overall Calcuttas. Enter online or print an application at www.jcaa.org

Early Entry Fee $125 per Boat (up to 6 anglers) Late Entry Fee $150 (if postmarked after July 20th, 2015)

For additional info, call the JCAA Office at 732-506-6565
For entry forms, rules and details on more prizes, go to www.JCAA.org
Completed entry forms can be faxed to the JCAA office 732-506-6975 or Snail Mailed to JCAA, 1201 Route 37 East, Suite9, Toms River NJ 08753 (Watch those postmarks)

Awards Ceremony – Wednesday August 12 – Starts at 7pm – Registration at 5pm
Awards Presentations at Holiday Inn, Rte. 72 East, Manahawkin, NJ
Grand Prize 14′ G3 Boat Motor & Trailer

Rules & Regs… www.jcaa.org/tourney/FlukeRules.htm
Mail-In Entry… www.jcaa.org/tourney/FlukeForm.pdf
Online Entry… www.jcaa.org/tourney/FlukeForm_EB.htm
Buy T-Shirts… www.jcaa.org/merchandise/FlukeTees.htm

Your support is what keeps JCAA working for you. Thank you.

~ Paul Haertel, President, JCAA

July 7, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 7, 2015 4:23 PM Subject: LBI Charters July 4th

Started off the weekend on Friday shark fishing with Kevin, fellow charter captain Mark and his son babe. Fished for sea bass on the way offshore and had 8 fish in no time. Later 5 shark bites ended with landing two makos and one brown shark. Lost a bigger mako close to the boat.

Didn’t fish Saturday or Sunday.

Headed out Monday AM with Aiden, Paul, Mark, Brian and Jerry along with Kevin. Boat limit of sea bass in 25 minutes. Played catch and release with short and keeper sized sea bass and added 2 ling. Made a move and added 4 triggers to the box. In the afternoon had Don, Dave, and Bob out. Well our boat limit was quick to say the least and then the bite died when a boiling northerly current picked up. Added a single porgy inshore to the box before calling it a day.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: Jul 7, 2015 10:52 AM Subject: Laura Sportfishing

Last two days have been a blast!

Sunday, Dan and his 7-year old son Jake out and I couldn’t get the hooks baited fasted enough kept 14 nice triggerfish and let some small ones go along with 6 keeper sea bass. We caught tons of short fluke, sea bass, and porgy’s that were released.

Monday, Grace, Brian and Alex were out for more of the same… 10 triggers and 2 sea bass were kept and again we let a ton of small fish go. We used fresh clam and small hooks for these guys.

~ Capt. Mark Finelli Laura Sportfishing 856-341-6562

July 6, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posting Date to be July 7, 2015 – “The shark fishing along the beaches is on and I’ve had reports of good catching and releasing of sandbar sharks,” reported FishHead Greg at Fisherman’s Headquarters. Fluke fishing is good along the jetty at Barnegat Inlet with a few keepers in the mix with a lot of throwbacks. Store staffer Rob has been hammering away at the flatfish from his boat and from terra firm and reports good results with a bucktail teamed with a white Gulp! Swimming Mullet. The keeper to toss ’em ratio is 1:5. Rob says the outgoing tide is the best time. Bill B. and friend fluke fished the bay and caught keepers from 18-1/2 inches to 25-1/2 inches.”

Received: Jul 6, 2015 9:32 PM Subject: Old Barney Charters 7/6 report

Fished with my family today and wanted to keep the action going so we hit a wreck. We had a great sea bass bite and put quality fish in the box, along with porgy, blues, and snagged some bunker for the crab traps. My nephew caught his first tog today – a 9lb. white chin! After explaining how it was out of season, we snapped a pic and back he went.

With school out and family vacation over, I will be back to trips 7 days a week. I made some upgrades to The Bonnie Anne this year, adding a custom starboard tackle station and adding Lowrance radar. All tackle, bait, and ice are included, all fish are cleaned, and trips can be customized however you would like.

Only remaining days this week for charter are Friday and Sunday. Check out our website and give us a call or send an email to book a trip.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

July 5, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:00 PM

Lenny just stopped in the shop with some Rita’s Water Ice for the crew. He said, “They are catching ’em in the inlet. Charley got a nice keeper and I got a pair of fish (one keeper). There are a lot of shorts being caught too.”

I enjoyed my morning scoring some great surfing waves. Super warm water and it was nice and clear. While up there I spoke to two anglers casting bucktails with Gulp. They each pulled a handful of shorts but no keepers.

Received: Jul 5, 2015 10:52 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Very busy week. Started off the week clamming with my wife and two friends. For those that don’t know, I was commercial clammer during summers while in college. Also did some tonging during the winter time. It is always great to jump back in the water and pull up a few dozen hard clams for dinner.

Wednesday, I had Tim Massett and his 10 year old son Jake out fluking. After a slow start we had a steady pick of fluke in Oyster Creek on the last of incoming tide. The team boxed three keepers all of which came within a few minutes of each other.

Thursday evening, regular Chris Doran was on board with his son Evan and friend Matt. We started the trip off fishing around the Waretown flats and Research Buoy for fluke. Fluking was slow on the last of outgoing tide but they managed to box one keeper. After that we switched over to try for bass and blues around the inlet. The crew worked hard in real nice conditions (end of flood, sun set, and white water) throwing BKDs, Savage plugs and fresh bait but could only connect with one blue. Great effort but even greater was having a father and son spending quality time together on the water.

Friday, I had on young 11-yr old Alex and Justin Switaj from Ohio for their third summer trip in a row with me. They usually come out with their granddad but this time their mom and dad joined them. Showing their parents they knew how to catch fluke they had fun catching and releasing shorts taking home one for dinner.

Saturday, the Galiardo party Rick and his son Harry, and his brother Chris with his two boys Gavin and Luke were out. The first half of the trip we tried for blowfish first on the west side of the bay with no success. Our clams baits were continually chewed apart by 2-3” puffers. Off the hook we fluked the last hour of incoming and found the bite was on. Although all but one were shorts the action was fast paced for brief period of time ending the trip with bang. Oh, that’s right it was the 4th of July.

This week I have Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons open as well as Saturday. The good thing is the tide is perfect for these afternoon / evening trips.

On the nature side: Have you ever seen a clam swim? I have and no it was not during the 70’s. It was in the 80’s while study invertebrate zoology. Our local hard clams are actually free swimmers equipped with cilia for prolusion for a very brief part of their life. And I mean very brief like a few days to maybe two weeks of a clams life. After that stage it metamorphoses into a juvenile clam at which time it settles to hopefully suitable bottom for what will be home the rest of its life.

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

Received: Jul 5, 2015 11:51 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

We have officially entered into summer with the July 4th weekend and it was nice to see a lot of people on the water fishing, especially when there are young ones enjoying our waters. This past week we had the first July full moon (July 1st) and we will have the second one July 31st, we will not see another 2 full moon month until May 2016. Unfortunately, the stronger than normal tidal currents caused by the full moon affect the fishing and it was evident this past week. You had to work really hard to find keepers that were biting. With the upcoming quarter moon and less current, it should put the fish on the feed.

Towards the beginning of the week, I had Eric Hanlon of Minnesota, his two sons Zack and Sam, and daughter Hannah on a 4-hr Bay & Inlet charter. Amazingly we worked a lot of the same areas that we worked on my previous trips with the same tide, bait, and drifts, but the keepers were less uncooperative – more releasing than keeping. We bucktailed a decent amount of fish, but the family foursome could only muster 1 keeper to 22 inches. This was the family’s first saltwater fluke excursion.

Next up was Erika Szell of California, Alex Szell of Bensalem, PA and his buddy Jake D’Arcy of Bensalem also on a 4-hr Bay & Inlet charter. Erika booked the trip for the two 15-yr olds. This was their first-ever trip jigging bucktails for fluke. At first, it was a lot of strikes and missed attempts, but Alex and Jake gained confidence and started connecting on the strikes. The two caught close to 25 fluke, but only managed a lone 19-1/2 incher while jigging the S&S Bigeye bucktail tipped with live-bait.

Later in the week, I had Dennis Blondo II of Monroe, NJ and his 10yr old son Noah on a 4-hr Bay & Inlet charter with the target being fluke. We worked a variety of spots from the Barnegat Light inlet to the backwaters of Barnegat Bay and the duo caught close to 30 fluke with 2 keepers (19 in, 18 in). Great job by the father and son team.

On July 4th I had Doug Conn of Connecticut with his wife Paige, and two daughters Elena and Allison. This was the family’s first time fishing for fluke. The bite was definitely off today with the stronger than normal tidal currents and steady 10-15knot winds – we had a pick of shorts with 1 keeper. We had a 2nd keeper boatside, but it became unhooked prior to netting, due to a brief moment of slack line. So it gets to live another day. Great job by the family.

This upcoming week I’m booked pretty solid, but I do have a few openings the following week. We are available for charter 7 days a week. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website (www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

July 4, 2015 ———————————————————————–

We wish everyone a Safe and Happy 4th of July!
Enjoy your entire Independence Day Weekend Holiday

Sonny Shepanski stopped in the shop this evening. He reported a great trip to the edge yesterday. He said the bite was on at the Wilmington. “We pushed off late in the day and pulled in about 8pm. We had a bite right away. Then another an hour later. Then another about an hour later. Headed in by midnight. All of the bites were on Joe Shute.”

Plenty of fluke around so go get ’em!!!

Store staffer Rob Vallone has bee on the flatties. Some days he is fishing the ocean in the boat and other days targeting them from land. Rod reported doing well this morning. He fished the Inlet with white Gulp! on a bucktail. He mentioned other anglers catching on live and cut bait. Rob said, “It has been a 1:5 ration (keeper:shorts) with quality flatties in the mix. Outgoing tide has been best for me!

Bill B. reported fishing with his girl friend in BL yesterday. They caught about 15 short fluke. Bill said, “We ended up with 3 keepers. She caught one 18-1/2″ fish and I ended up catching my personal best at 25-1/2″ 7-lbs even. We also had one at 5-lbs too!”

July 2, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jul 2, 2015 12:06 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

The boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are getting into their summer fishing routines chasing fluke inshore and tuna and sharks further out.

The “Starfish” with Captains Carl Sheppard and Vic Bertotti has been fishing in the ocean looking for fluke and black sea bass. With the daily limit on sea bass dropping to 2 per day, the attention will now be on fluke. Adding to the action lately has been a large number of sand sharks on the bottom.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky had the “Starfish” out with a crew of 8 on a sea safari. After a couple hours of slow action trolling they went to the 28 mile wreck and had 9 keeper sea bass with the largest at 15-inches.

Captain George Finck of “Sparetime” Charters had his son Bill and grandson Will out for a day of bonding and fishing on the inshore reefs. In addition to a good time, they put together a good catch of sea bass and fluke.

Captain Gary Dugan of the “Irish Jig” has found the fluke action in Great Bay to be hot and cold. One day his anglers catch mostly shorts while other days they have been putting several keepers into the box. He also had a trip for some ocean bottom fishing where they picked up some large porgies and blackfish which had to be returned to the water. They managed to take home some sea bass fillets for dinner.

Captain Fran Verdi has been fishing the “Francesca Marie” in the ocean looking for a fluke bite. He found some small fluke along with some sea bass. He is hoping for the water temperatures to rise to spark the fluke bite. He is also planning some tuna runs.

Although weather kept Captain Bob Gerkens and the “Hot Tuna” from getting offshore this week, Captain Bob says he has some reliable reports that the bluefish tuna are in their usual spots. He plans some trips in the near future to troll up some of these fish.

Captain John Lewis reports his new “Insatiable” is now in the water and ready for action. He plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with friends and family and then be open for charters.

The Junior Mates Class began last week with 13 eager teenagers looking to learn more about fishing. This week’s class will feature Captain Michael Yocco of the tournament winning “MJ’S” speaking about canyon fishing. There are still a couple of openings in the class. Information and application forms can be obtained at the Association’s website www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

June 29, 2015 ———————————————————————–

1:45 PM

Richie Weisz asked in recent email, “How’s fishing at the Inlet been lately?” Reply…

The fluke fishing has been very good. Both land based anglers and boaters are and have been putting together good trips with some quality keepers. Last week we heard of (and reported) a couple of 4-lb+ fluke. There’s bluefish as well as herring chasing small spearing. I’m sure the fluke are eating the same. There’s still bass present too. The local free-divers/spear-fisherman recently reported striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, big tog (toutog/blackfish are out of season), small sea bass, triggerfish and sheepshead. I’d say the Inlet has been a smorgasbord of fishing opportunity.

Off the beach the fluke fishing has been good too. Store staffer Bucktail Blake headed out yesterday evening after closing up the shop. This morning on he way back out he reported catching a bunch of flatties before dark. They were hitting like mad dogs!

The shark fishing is on. We had numerous reports over the weekend of quality sandbar sharks being caught/released.

~ FishHead.Greg

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posting Date to be June 30, 2015 – “Actually, some pretty good fluke fishing going on along the South Jetty up at Barnegat Inlet with fish to 5 pounds being caught,” observes Lou at Fisherman’s Headquarters, advising the utilization of the bucktail/squid strip combination if keepers are part of the plan. Bayside, the calamari/killie combo and bucktail/Gulp! Swimming Mullet duo are scoring on throwback and legal length flatfish at the BB and BB buoys and also around the Fish Factory in Great Bay. Stripers? “Oh, there are a few still around,” he says, and Ryan Sherwood from Manahawkin soaked a bunker chunk off a mid-island Beach Saturday morning to corral a 47-pound, 2-ounce cow. He was part of a linesider specialist cadre that released four more over 42 pounds. Bluefish out front and in the bay have been very spotty, but whenever and wherever they show, they eat… ravenously. These are from 2 pounds to 5 pounds and are all over metals and fresh bunker chunks. Blowfish are back and are putting the dentition to clam and squid strips. Heavy chumming is the rule. Along the South Jetty at Barnegat Inlet, the triggerfish have appeared, some at sizes to 3 pounds and over. Clam and squid are both making them happy.

Received: Jun 29, 2015 15:57 PM Subject: Wed and Thurs Afternoon are Mixed Bag Fishing

We will be sailing Open Boat or charter this Wed and Thurs afternoons, July 1 and 2, Noon to 5 PM. Ocean, bay, or inlet, whatever it takes. Fluke and blues. We could also try for some schoolie bass. Light tackle action. $150 person. Call to reserve a spot.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: Jun 29, 2015 1:29 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Believe it or not I was out both Saturday and Sunday.

Saturday morning there was a weather window which I took advantage off with my friend Dave Werner. With the NE wind and top of the tide we thought for sure we would have a great opportunity for some late June bass around the inlet. Water was clear, 68 degrees and the bass did not cooperated. At slack tide Dave jumped overboard with spear gun in hand to see if he could nail a bass for dinner. He worked both jetties hard but did not score. He saw tons of tog around both jettys and only a few 30” bass around the south jetty. Interesting how I caught bass a few days earlier at the same location but in which Dave did not see any. There was a big school of 3-5 pound blues tearing up small sand eels just outside the inlet.

Sunday I had the Mairo clan out from Cranford, NJ we started the trip out fluking the west side of the bay. On the first drift Deirdre landed a short which had us thinking the bite was on. We were wrong, after that the wind came up making drifting difficult and was only to scratch out a half dozen shorts. Switching over to fresh bunker chunks on the hook for bluefish the clan kept busy with clear nose skates and smooth dogfish but no bluefish. Fishermen always look for a reason as to why fishing is good one day and not the other. Saturday’s 3 inches of rain may have been the cause. Barnegat Bay being part of a watershed is sensitive to runoff from not only towns that are on the bay but places like Lakewood and Jackson. The amount of rain surely dropped the salinity of bay which is likely the cause for the fish not chewing. If not that it is luck, and being a scientist I don’t usually believe in luck.

On the nature side: Saturday I saw 3 Ruddy Turnstones (type of shorebird) on the south jetty. These birds nest during the summer in the artic and winter for the most part on the Caribbean Islands, as well the Central and South American coasts. So I am scratching my head as to why are they here on June 27. The answer could be they are early southerly migrants, late to their breeding grounds, or decided to stay on LBI for the summer.

Screaming Drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

June 28, 2015 ———————————————————————–

2015 Simply Bassing Tournament ended today at 12 Noon – Click here for the Simply Bassing (Results may not be final yet)

Received: Jun 28, 2015 7:19 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

The back bay waters have a nice concentration of fish but they are spread out and you have to work multiple areas to put some fish in the box. The water temperatures make all the difference to getting keepers compared to getting shorts.
We have been targeting fluke in the back and have been coming up with some nice fish to 5 lbs. There are still grill-sized bluefish in the inlet area and can be easily caught with artificials. I know it has been a slightly slower pick in the ocean, but that should start heating up especially with the recent East winds. Blowfish are around, but I haven’t heard enough to targeting them – but that could change any day.

First, I had Art Diebel of Allentown, NJ and his 10yr old son Bruce on a 4hr Bay/Inlet Charter looking for some fluke for Bruce’s 1st time on a boat. Since we hit the water so early we tried one area for a stray weakfish, but struck out so we went back to the original plan. Well, they always say the “newbie” gets the good bite and Bruce was no exception. We worked a variety of spots early morning using S&S bucktails tipped with either Berkley Gulp or bait. The father & son team ended up with 6 keeper fluke with the biggest close to 4lbs.

Next, I had Bryan Ingraham of Colorado and his two boys Emerson and Rowan along with family friend Rebecca Resnick and her two daughters Aviva and Talia out on a 4hr Bay/Inlet charter. The Colorado families have been booking with my the last three years and it’s neat to see the kids get older. We fished either our custom-tied rigs and S&S Bucktails jigs tipped with Gulp and/or fresh bait. After working a few areas, the crew did a great job by putting 7 keepers in the box with the biggest close to 5 lbs at 23.5in. The kids beat the adults by catching 4 keepers – great job and look forward to seeing them next year.

With school out, we are available for charter 7 days a week for the rest of the season until September 1st. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709 . As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

June 26, 2015 ———————————————————————–

11: 00 AM

The trigger fish are here! Matt A. from Ship Bottom stopped by the shop right before we closed on Thursday and weighed in a 3.35-lb trigger fish that he speared this afternoon. Matt said there were a couple bass present and another diver speared a nice fluke and a weakfish.

Lots of sharks and some big rays. Austin Pounds got into some of the toothy ones and a a monster ray! He shared this report, “I’ve been into ’em. Yesterday (Thursday) and the previous night (Wednesday) were good. Plenty of brown sharks up to 75-lbs. I also had an epic two hour fight with a big ray. I caught a monster butterfly ray that tapped out a 7′ wingspan. It weighed about 200-lbs.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Jun 26, 2015 6:19 AM Subject: 6/25 LBI Charters

In the AM had Justin, Tim, Scott and Rich out. Plenty of bites but loads of shorts. Ended day with 54 sea bass 11 ling and a 3 lb fluke. Headed back out for a quick 4 hour afternoon trip with Jacob, Jared, Chris and Ron.
More of the same with double headers flying but a ton of shorts. Ended with 40 sea bass a ling and a keeper codfish.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

June 25, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 25, 2015 8:25 AM Subject: Adjusted BHCFA Report

The captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association (BHCFA) have been busy on the water this past week.

Captain Dave Kreines of “Byte Me” Sportfishing had some spare time on his hands recently so he did a little drifting on the ICW behind Beach Haven and picked up a pair of short fluke and a 4-pounder. The next day he had a cancellation and drifted behind Holgate and boated a 4.5-pound fluke. Both days’ fishing was a total of 3 hours.

Captain Carl Sheppard on the “Starfish” has been doing well reef fishing for sea bass and some small fluke. His best catches have been south of the inlet. One day he had a crew of 12 from Bensalem, Pa., out and they totaled about 125 black sea bass along with a couple of short fluke. Jigs outperformed bait. Another day he had the Zinn family out and they picked up some sea bass and short fluke. When large swells made ocean fishing tough for the youngsters, he got them into calmer bay waters where they had fun with smooth dogfish.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky had a full crew on the “Reel Determined” which left the dock at midnight last Friday night for some offshore fishing. Offshore mate in training, Liane Lopez, was getting instruction from Captain Jimmy and Pat Zavacky. At first the bite was slow but eventually they found some yellowfin along with a missed big eye and a white marlin in the baits. Thirteen year old Teddy Janice picked up a very nice 17-pound mahi-mahi, and he and Liane caught their first yellowfin tuna. They reported plenty of life spotted in the canyon.

Captain Ray Lopez had the “Miss Liane” out last week for a day of fishing on the Barnegat Light Reef. They picked up three keeper fluke, one jumbo sea bass, and some feisty 2-4 pound bluefish near the inlet. The largest fluke was almost 24 inches and the sea bass was about 4.5 pounds.

Captain Bob Gerkens had his initial fishing run of the season on the “Hot Tuna” fishing the shark tournament at the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club last Saturday. Although they caught no mako sharks they picked up a blue shark and hammerhead. Bob says he plans to start focusing on tuna the rest of the month.

Captain Fran Verdi on the “Francesca Marie” was scheduled to have a fluke charter recently but it was canceled at the last minute. When he could find no one to fill the slot, he got up early and headed out on his own to the wrecks and fished in 80 feet of water, looking for Sea Bass. He got set up and had some nice action right away. He was able to put a Father’s Day dinner for eight in the box in no time. He plans to target sea bass one more weekend before switching over to ocean fluke fishing.

It is not too late to sign up for the Junior Mate’s Program conducted by the BHCFA. It begins Thursday, June 25, at 7pm at the Maritime Museum in Beach Haven. Additional information on the Junior Mate’s Program and on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.BHCFA.net.

~ Jim Hutchinson

June 24, 2015 ———————————————————————–

8:00 PM

Chet B. just stopped in the shop. He reported fishing last night after the storm passed. He caught on nice brown shark and also had one run off. While here Chet mentioned that the fluke fishing up off the North-end of the Island has been great.

Today while fishing along the Barnegat Inlet area he caught a 4-lb fluke and the other day his buddy Charley got two beautiful doormats!

~ FishHead.Greg

2:30 PM

Don’t have all the details but Gary Garafalo caught a 7-lb Fluke around the area of Barnegat Light.

Received: Jun 24, 2015 11:41 AM Subject: Pez Machine Sportfishing

Just a quick update. We only have 3 trips available.

July has an afternoon half-day trip on the 5th, and overnighters on July 15-16 and July 16-17.

August is booked up as well but we do still have the following dates available for overnighters: August: 9-10, 10-11, 11-12, 14-15, 24-25, 25-26, 26-27

That’s it before September — Don’t miss out!

We landed a beautiful Bluefin inshore of the canyons. Having some great tile fishing when the weather is right. On the shark scene many makos being caught along with a 150 pound thresher.

We look forward to fishing with you soon and, remember, Big Fish Happen!

~ Capt. Stew Hitchner Pez Machine Sportfishing 609.287.5136

Received: Wednesday, June 24, 2015 11:01 AM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

With school out my 10 week temporary retirement started. Been on the water 3 of the last four mornings. Fluking is settling into the start of summer pattern with fish spread out on bottom without structure on the west side of Barnegat Bay and maintaining ambush positions in and around the channels and bars. Shorts are definitely outnumbering keepers. The bay is in the mid 70’s + and the ocean was in the upper the upper 60s up until yesterday (Tuesday) when the brief south wind dropped it to 64. Taking advantage of this, I was out before sun up today fishing the beginning of outgoing tide behind and around the inlet. The inlet still has some monster blues around. I taped one out @ 36” before releasing the beast. Once away from them I did find some bass and boated three over 28” keeping a 34” fish for dinner and was back at the dock by 8.

This summer will be my 12th year guiding. I always look forward to my summer trips with returning families, some of which have been going out with me for close to a decade. Seeing little fishermen go from wearing a PDF on board to graduating high school is awesome. Speaking of little fisherman, I will be instructing Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs again this summer through the Barnegat Recreation Department. Classes are for K-5 and 6-8 grade. If interested in signing up your
child here is a link with the information…
www.barnegat.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Fishing-Camp.pdf

Here is a link to my latest fishing video…

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

Received: Wednesday, June 24, 2015 7:26 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

What a great time of year, school’s out so let the fishing begin. We still have some blues around especially the sod banks and inlet area, while the striper word has been nonexistent. The fluke are spread out in the back and it seems you either find them or you find mostly shorts. The usual spots have had fluke but not in the normal numbers as experienced in past years. One thing is for sure, you have to have the right tide and wind to make it happen – otherwise it’s tough fishing.

This week I had Stan Balewitz of Edison, Hector Caraballo of Edison, and Michael Siessel of Bordentown, NJ out on a bay fluke charter. We worked spot after spot looking fluke and trying to find good water with the trio jigging bucktails the entire trip. Stan Balewitz picked up a thick 23″ fluke weighing close to 5lbs, but unfortunately that was the only keeper fluke among over 30 short fluke, a lone bluefish, and a few sea robins. The rain may have played a factor in the bite being slightly off and it seems that the fluke are spread out. Overall, nice job by the guys.

I usually don’t get to do a lot of personal fishing during the season, but I did find time to sneak out with my son Luke to spend some quality father & son time. For a few hours Luke and I worked a couple different spots, and released close to 25 shorts with 2 keepers. The keepers were caught on bucktails fished with minnows and Gulp. Luke was happy as he caught dinner for us that night.

A few days later I had returning charter clients Bryan Ingraham, wife Rachel, and their sons 9yr old Emerson and 7yr old Rowan on a 4hr bay & inlet charter. We started off working the inlet for some grillin’ sized bluefish, but the inlet/ocean conditions became somewhat hazardous with the steady 15-20 knot winds and the ripping outgoing tide. We moved to the back working a variety of areas trying to find cleaner water with tough wind and tidal current conditions. The family had a great time in the tough fishing conditions with Emerson and Rowan catching their own bluefish and fluke. Unfortunately, the keeper fluke weren’t cooperative. Great job by the family and kids!

With school out, we are available for charter 7 days a week for the rest of the season until September 1st. If interested in booking a charter, book through the website ( www.reelreactioncharters.com ) or call 609-290-7709. As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – it’s “no worries” fishing. Just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

June 22, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:30 PM

Yesterday a customer (Lou) stopped in the shop and weighed in a 20-lb 15-oz striper. He caught it off of the mid-island surf on bunker. Lou said that he had a couple run offs and a few bluefish too.

We got word today from an angler sharking the surf. Both brown sharks and baby bull sharks are chewing.

~ FishHead.Greg

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

Posting Date to be June 23, 2015 – “A nice striper is being weighed in right now,” said a Sunday morning Scott at Fisherman’s Headquarters, and store staffer Joe yelled that the weight of the Ship Bottom beach bass was 21 pounds. “Lou the Local” soaked meat o’ menhaden to sand a First Day of Summer linesider. Overall the island suds have been spotty, with picks at metal molesting bluefish to 4 pounds, toss ’em and a few keeper fluke that are grabbing bucktail/Gulp!, short bass and the occasional legal length linesider. The inlet is alive with cocktail blues, with bucktail picking off the here-and-there flatfish. Bayside the crabbing is still only fair, but blowfish action is pretty good at the BB and BI buoys. “Get the chum going,” he advises.

2015 Simply Bassing Leader Board – Final Results
1st
47 lbs 02 oz
Ryan Sherwood
$960
2nd
42 lbs 01 oz
Martin Supsie
$480
3rd
37 lbs 03 oz
Patrick Olson
$288
4th
36 lbs 08 oz
Robert Vallone
$192
Totals
96 Anglers
@ $20 each =
$1,920
June 21, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Happy Father’s day to all the dad’s.

Mark Guenther of Forked River weighed in a 9-lb sheepshead yesterday that he caught spearfishing.

Yesterday I got back from a great trip out fishing the edge (Wilmington Canyon). I got the invite from Captain Jeff aboard the No Limit (Bluerunner Sportfishing) and we pushed out of Barnegat Light on Wednesday afternoon. Each night we picked up one bigeye tuna at sunset and during the day time we were covered up in football size yellowfin tuna. We also had the occasional mahi when on the troll. We dedicated most of the daytime to bottom fishing and we hammered the tilefish (both grey and golden). I broke off a beast of a fish which we assume could have been a swordfish. All in all, I had a great time. We went three for three on bigeye and filled the boat with tilefish.

This is kinda old but better late then never… Tuesday, the night before I left Blake (store staffer) and I got into some great fishing. We both caught a quality bass (20-lbs+) as well as a few schoolies fishing plugs.

Now back I hear there were some quality bass here the past four of five days. Catching up talking to store staffer Rob Vallone he said that it was best around the new moon but there are a few quality bass still here. Rob mentioned, “There are a lot of dogfish here too. You have to weed through them to find the bass. Bring lots of bait because the dogs will tare you up! ”

Fluke fishing in the bay has been good and there are also fluke in the Inlet. There was a 7 pounder caught by an angler fishing off of the jetty. Other fishing talk I have heard… More fluke off of the surf, occasional weakfish (two by anglers bucktailing the surf in search of fluke) and the brown sharks are in! John P. and his daughter Gabby got into ’em good off of the surf this weekend. With the surf water temp in the mid 60’s and the bay in the mid 70’s expect them to hang around all summer. This is great hard pulling (catch and release only) fishing fun.

~ FishHead.Greg

June 20, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Another Big Striper came in again today. Ryan Sherwood of Manahawkin weighed-in a 47-lb 2-oz (28″ x 52″) Striped Bass that was caught Saturday in North Beach at 2:30 AM using bunker. The fish was weighed-in for the Simply Bassing Tournament and the Fish Head Calcutta.

Received: Jun 20, 2015 7:01 PM Subject: Harvey Cedars Fishing report

Caught a lot of dogfish on bunker in the surf last night around 11pm. Managed to hook one around 5ft.

~ Jake Poston

June 19, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 19, 2015 5:24 PM Subject: 6/19 LBI Charters

Had Joe, Buzzy and Doug out today. Little swell to start the day and not greatest anchoring conditions but the boys picked away at keepers and shorts on their way to a boat limit of 60 sea bass and 9 ling.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: Jun 19, 2015 3:42 PM Subject: Surf Fishing Report

Did well today on the high tide with 6-8 pound bluefish and one striped bass at 30 inches on the front beach.Cut bunker was the choice.Will be back at it early tomorrow morning.

~ John Mury, Waretown

Received: Jun 19, 2015 11:00 AM Subject: Boaters Encouraged to Be Aware of Ecologically Sensitive Areas of Barnegat Bay

The NJDEP is reminding boaters to use caution while navigating ecologically sensitive areas of Barnegat Bay. The reduction of impacts from boats and personal watercraft within the bay’s critical ecosystems is part of the Christie Administration’s comprehensive plan to protect and restore the bay.

For more information on this important issue please see the DEP news release at www.nj.gov/dep/newsrel/2015/15_0058.htm.

~ NJDEP

8:45 AM

More Big Stripers caught last night…

Patrick Olson of Philadelphia weighed-in a 37-lb 3-oz (25″ x 45″) Striped Bass for the Simply Bassing Tournament and The Fish Head Calcutta. He caught the fish last night at about 9:30 PM while fishing Loveladies using bunker.

Peter Kelly of Cedar Run weighed-in a 26-lb 3-oz (22-3/4″ x 40-1/4″) Striped Bass for the Simply Bassing Tournament. This fish was caught last night at 9:00 PM in Barnegat Light using bunker.

June 18, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 18, 2015 7:03 PM Subject: Mayday! West Wind Striper Hunt Tomorrow!

New plan for tomorrow’s (Friday’s) Open Boat trip. They revamped the marine forecast to a mild west. One last shot at the ocean tomorrow before that south wind kicks in for the weekend. Departing at Noon and returning around 6 pm (maybe later). Out the inlet, making a left and running north. They have bass on bunker up there so we’re headed up for an afternoon of snagging and live lining. Targeting big stripers. I always have the trolling gear on board too… only if we have to. Call me up to 10 pm tonight (Thurs) or up until “go time” tomorrow to grab a spot on board.

BTW: The forecast has the wind blowing west again for Monday so we’re running morning and afternoon departures.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

12:00 Noon

Some Big Striped Bass are being caught in the Long Beach Island Surf.

There is a new leader in the Simply Bassing Tournament…
Martin Supsie from Forked River weighed-in a Striped Bass that was 42-lb 1-oz with 46″ x 27-1/2″ dimensions. He caught the fish this morning at around 10:00 AM while fishing a bunker bait in Barnegat Light.

Received: Jun 18, 2015 11:38 AM Subject: 46.45lb Striped Bass

Tried to send this report to Greg’s phone but I know he’s out tuna fishing so here you guys go…
“Caught a cow last night around 10 PM down on the South-side of the island on bunker. She gave me one heck of a fight. Every time she saw the beach she would take off. Twenty-five minute battle before she was on the beach. This is my personal best off the surf. Weighted it in at the Fish Head shop this morning when you guys first opened, and it was 46.45-lbs with a length of 48″ and girth of 27”. This is the one Spring I don’t sign up for the Simply Bassin Tournament and I get this cow. Oops!

~ Ryan Dellane

Received: Jun 18, 2015 6:42 AM Subject: BHCFA Weekly Report

The theme this week for the boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association is variety. The captains are scoring and getting excited about the fishing in the bay, in the ocean not too far from the inlet, and offshore.

Captain Fran Verdi on the “Francesca Marie” made his first offshore trip of the year Sunday to the Wilmington Canyon. He arrived at 5am and had lines in the water 15 minutes later. He worked the East wall, the Tip, and the West Wall for about 4 hours with not even a touch. He made the decision to troll north looking in the flats and had the first bite of the day which turned into a nice 30-pound yellowfin tuna. He then trolled the 40 and 50 line where he found one more tuna in the 30-pound class. They then headed in and ended the day with a 40-pounder.

Another day Captain Fran fished wrecks in 80-feet of water and had steady action on black sea bass, blackfish, and ling. He moved to a wreck in 65-feet of water but most of the fish were out of season blackfish and short sea bass. He returned to deeper water and better action. The “Francesca Marie” ended the day with 22 sea bass and 4 big ling in the cooler. He estimates they threw back another 40 sea bass and all of the blackfish.

Captain George Finck had a crew out on the “Sparetime” fishing the reef. They had good action but all were shorts. He moved into the bay where they had a nice catch of bluefish. The next day he had the Rotelle family out to the reef with great weather and good action on fluke and sea bass. The boys were out fished by the female anglers, and the family went home with dinner.

Meanwhile, Captain Gary Dugan of Irish Jig Sportfishing reports fishing in the waters of Great Bay with loads of action on the fluke along with some very nice fish ending up in the box.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr

June 17, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 17, 2015 9:26 PM Subject: Blues, Fluke, and Stripers

Still hammering away at the bluefish in the bay. Anything from 2 to 10 pounders on topwater lures in shallow water. Closest thing to flats fishing for us Jersey guys. Oyster Creek Channel and the inlet have been producing every day, both tides. Fluke fishing has been pretty good. Nice size fish are in the mix. We are jigging leadheads tipped with Gulp. White or chartreuse are both catching. We’re catching some short stripers behind the sod banks, but not on every visit. I’m doing an equal number of strikeouts as I am connecting with those fish. I keep stocking the sandworms on board, though, because when we connect it is awesome. 20 to 24 inch fish on 10 pound spinning tackle. I keep threatening to anchor up and try the blowfish but I still haven’t. Maybe this weekend.

Sailing Open Boat Friday and Saturday afternoons, June 19 and 20, 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Also Sunday, (be careful it’s Fathers Day) June 21 we will run 6AM to 11AM to get you guys back in time to be celebrated. Monday, June 22 is an interesting day to watch according to the forecast. It’s supposed to start with a west wind Sunday night and stay west all the way through Monday. That could be the day to go bunker hunting and looking for the big stripers. Started hearing some rumblings on that front from the boats to the north of us and that is well within our range. If the fish are there, we’re going! Monday sailing 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM (or later if we wander north). Also again Monday afternoon 1PM to 7PM. 5 hour bay trips are $150 person. 6 hour ocean or ocean/bay combos are $165 person. All fish are shared. Charters also available for any of these days and times.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

10:00 AM

Here is a report from Austin Pounds, “Limited out with fluke yesterday night, biggest being 20-inches and the smallest being 18-inches. Numerous shorts and all were caught on the white bucktail with a teaser tipped with white gulp, fish are in the surf, gear up with the half ounce white bucktails and go!”

~ FishHead.Greg

June 16, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 16, 2015 6:13 PM Subject: Laura Sportfishing

Had Chuck, Joe and Sean out today. The fog kept us locked in the bay at first where we had 20 shorts and 1 keeper fluke on Gulp. Around 8am the fog started to clear out and after hitting two wrecks we had 26 keeper seabass to add to the box!

~ Capt. Mark Finelli Laura Sportfishing 856-341-6562

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

“June 16, 2015 – Joe from Fisherman’s Headquarters has word of good to excellent blowfish action at the BI and BB buoys, but expect to chum heavily to get them in close. Squid strips and Fishbites are the deflators. Area lagoons and creeks and the bay’s western side in particular are the blue claw boil. Bayside fluke are jumping ugly at bucktails tipped with the white or chartreuse Gulp! Swimming Mullet and also squid/killie and bucktail/squid. The cocktail blues racing through Barnegat Inlet are being sobered by metals and poppers. The island beachfront is surrendering some surprisingly big stripers. Robert Braack from Atco dragged in a linesider that put the mark at 35 pounds 13 ounces, and bass boss Rob Vallone brought in a Loveladies cow weighing 36-1/2 pounds.”

Received: Jun 15, 2015 9:29 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Well the water temperatures finally started to settle down from last week’s wild swings. Ocean is in the low 60s and the bay is in the low 70s. There are still BIG bluefish hanging around the inlet as well as the backside of the inlet. I had the Anthony Conti crew from Ridgewood, NJ get into some of the action. My mission was to get Anthony’s 21-year old son, Matthew, his first fish. With the crew boxing two tasty fluke to 22” we then concentrated on bluefish. The bluefish did not let us down as the gang caught several that went from 7-11 pounds. There are still lots of schoolie stripers to play around with when the tide is right. Bucktails, BKDs, clam and sandworms have all been effective. Some days they are feeding even when the sun is bright. Sunday morning my wife Deb and I fluked off of Waretown. With absolutely no drift we power drifted and had steady action with shorts and one keeper for fish tacos. School ends this week so I will be guiding all week long through the summer. Trips are available anytime of the day. If you want to try something different this summer I will be doing off the beach sharking trips targeting brown sharks on light tackle. Talk about fun!

On the nature side: diamond back terrapins have been very active since the bay water warmed up. They are the only species of turtle worldwide that lives in brackish water, like Barnegat Bay.

Screaming Drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

June 15, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 15, 2015 6:51 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters

During the last couple of weeks we have spent most of our time mixing it up between bay/inlet and ocean trips. The bay has offered up a mix of mostly bluefish, schoolie stripers and fluke, while the ocean has provided a good bounty of sea bass with a 50/50 keeper ratio . Cod , ling and catch and release tog have also spiced the catches.

At times the back bay has been stacked with schoolie bass but conditions must align ie, tide, temp and boat traffic to connect with these sporty light tackle dragsters.

This week started with a limit of quality sea bass for the Jay Simmons party who also scored a mix of blackfish [ catch and release] and bluefish that we ended the day with.

Next up was Joe Kinlin and son Tom who braved through stiff SW winds to score a mix of blue fish and a nice 34″ striper in the back bay/inlet “Happy Hour” 3hr special.

Next up was the Ken Greenwald crew who scored another sweet catch of delicious quality sea bass and ling as well as catch and release cod and blackfish .

Remember to join us on Facebook to view photos and latest reports and “like us” !

WIshing everyone fair winds and calm seas.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

June 14, 2015 ———————————————————————–

3:00 PM

Another fluke report off of the surf… Rob Vallone caught a handful of fluke off of the south end surf. All healthy fish but no keepers.

Kristi Reillo Cooper posted on our Facebook page, “Thank you boys (staffers) for the help today with my sunglass purchase you rock!” She then posted two photos from the surf on bunker, one of a bluefish and one of a dog shark.

Dan Bush aboard the Sea Creature out of Tuckerton got a 11-lb fluke this morning. Dan got it on a bucktail tipped with squid drifting the bay area near Little Egg Inlet. He mentioned catching a 6 pound flatty yesterday as well as couple other keepers.

2:00 PM

Jason Marti from the High Point Vol. Fire Company gave us heads up that yesterday’s Striper Shoot out was another great success! He reported, “Weighed-in a total of ten fish. These being five striped bass and five bluefish. There were a couple nice fish weighed-in and then we crushed it at the after party.” Here are the results…

1st Place: $2000 – 52.2-lbs – Sweet Fox w/ Captain Mark Haley
2nd Place: $1000 – 50.1-lbs – Miss D3 w/ Captain Joe Ryan
3rd Place: $500 – 34.8-lbs – Get Reel w/ Captain John Martinelli

High Hook: Two heaviest combined striped bass, 70/30 Split
70% $1750 – Angler Management
30% $750 – Sweet Fox

HPVFC Calcutta: Closest to 19.37 (over or under)
$1250 – 22.6-lbs – Angler Management

Yellow Eye Bluefish Calcutta:
$1550 – 13.7-lbs – Anthracite

~ FishHead.Greg

11:00 AM

Another good size striped bass came yesterday afternoon from the surf. Peter Kapanzhi caught a 24-lb 10-oz bass off of the south-end surf on bunker at about 10am.

Fluke fishing is strong in the bay. We got some positive report from the back bay for the past couple of days. Shamong Joe and his son Clayton smoked the fluke yesterday. They found a nice body of good size ones, catching 14 total with 6 being keeper size. Joe said, “Last hour of outgoing was good with a bucktail and killie.

There are some fluke off of the surf too. Austin Pounds gave us a report yesterday evening. He fished with Jason Craig and they got into the flatties on white Gulp/bucktail and teaser. Two keepers up to 24″ and ten shorts from 6pm to sunset on the south-end surf.

We had a ton of anglers in the shop yesterday gearing up to head offshore in search of sharks and tuna. The buckets of chum, flats of bait and packs of ballyhoo were running out of the freezer! The weather and seas finally let up and the reports have been great! Tuna reports from the Toms, Lindy and Spencer have been good. One customer in the shop reported hammering the yellowfin on the troll. He also mentioned a very good tilefish bite. Sharks reports have been good from the various sharking areas 5-30 miles out. Some customers are reporting lots of blue sharks but many are also getting into some good size makos and threshers. Sean Kenny hooked a 200-lb mako yesterday morning.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Jun 13, 2015 9:04 PM Subject: 6/13 LBI charters.

Has Chris and 13 year old Eric out today. Stayed local with plenty of bites. Boys put 33 keeper sea bass and a ling on a flat calm ocean.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

June 13, 2015 ———————————————————————–

9:15 AM

The Big Striped Bass are around and we have Bunker and plenty of Daiwa SP Minnows for those of you that what to try and catch one. Read below…

8:10 AM Weigh-in

We now have a new Big Striped Bass weigh-in for the 2nd Place Position in the Simply Bassing Tournament and the FHQ Calcutta. This morning at about 6:15 AM, Robert Braack from Atco caught a 35-lb 13-oz 45″ 24″ Striped Bass while fishing Harvey Cedars using a lure.

7:08 AM Weigh-in

Robert Vallone from Little Egg Harbor did it again… this morning, another Big Striped Bass was weigh-in for the Simply Bassing Tournament. Last night at around 11:00 PM while fishing in Loveladies and using bunker Rob landed a 36-lb 8-oz 45-3/4″ x 26-1/4” Striped Bass. That keeps him in 1st Place in the Simple Bassing and the FHQ Calcutta with this even bigger new fish. Very interesting is that as of very early this morning, if Rob could rank all the Striped Bass that he caught for this Spring’s tournament he would have 1st, 2nd and 3rd Places. Rob puts a lot of time in fishing and his catches are showing that he knows what he’s doing. Congratulation to Rob.

Received: Jun 13, 2015 7:30 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

The winds have finally let up and the waters have begun to warm back up especially with the heat and sun this past week. The fluke in the back are much more active then the past couple of weeks, but you still have to pick through the fish to find the ones over 18 in. The bay/inlet are still offering limited shots at bluefish and smaller sized stripers. Recently, I had Mike Sicilia and his three sons (Brian, James, and Michael) out on their 3rd annual father & son charter. The group usually does the ocean, but opted for a 4hr Bay/Inlet charter due to the colder ocean temps. We worked 5 different areas and ended up 4 keeper fluke up to 4 1/2lbs. The throwback to keeper ratio was probably around 7 to 1. James who swung & missed most of the trip finally connected with a grillin’ sized bluefish on our last drift. The bigger fluke were caught on the Pearl White BigEye bucktails tipped with Berkley Gulp. Nice job by the crew. One of our drifts took us by an Osprey nest with the parent perched close to the nest – pretty cool

I have an one afternoon opening next week on Friday (June 19th), and we officially start running trips 7 days a week for the rest of the season until Sept 1st. If interested in a charter, book through the website (www.reelreactioncharters.com) or call 609-290-7709. As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – you just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

June 12, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 12, 2015 6:26 PM Subject: LBI Charters Update

Had Andy and Chris out Wednesday bottom fishing. Ash helped the boys pick away all day at nice fish ending with boat limit of 60 keeper sea bass, 18 ling and a cod. Had Eric, Eric, and Bob out Friday for more of the same. Slow pick with more keepers than throwbacks. Along with help from Kev the boys boxed 58 sea bass, 4 ling and a cod.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

1:00 PM

Captain Mike Greene of the Lucky Stripes reported, “We lit it up today! Bass up to 44-lbs” Mike was fishing live bunker in the boat off of the beach.

Jim Perkins just gave us heads up he got in another successful offshore fishing trip. He fished with some friend out at the Lindy and got into the yellowfin tuna (12 up to 45-lbs) and some tilefish. They also caught a mako.

Reminder the High Point Tournament is tomorrow.

~ FishHead.Greg
June 11, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 11, 2015 4:43 PM Subject: BHCFA Report

The captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are smiling again as warm, decent weather has returned to Beach Haven. The winds have abated, the water temperatures are rising, and the fishing is on the upswing. Currently leading the hit parade are nice sized fluke in the bay waters and black sea bass on the inshore wrecks and artificial reefs. In addition, there is still a good population of bluefish ranging from 1-10 pounds in the bay through the inlet and out into the ocean.

Captain Carl Sheppard had Mark Giunta of Somerdale and three friends out on the “Star Fish” in the face of a northeaster that never materialized. Two of the original party cancelled because of the forecast but the day proved to be beautiful. The black sea bass were present at a number of wrecks. The four anglers boated over 120 fish with a goodly number of keepers in the catch including a 21-inch fluke and the largest black bass of the year, an eighteen incher.

On another trip Captain Carl had 10 members of a local fishing club out looking for black sea bass on the “Star Fish.” Serving as mates were Liane and Nicholas from the BHCFA Junior Mates program along with Captain Vic Bertotti who finally returned from Florida. After a run to the south, they were fortunate to find wrecks loaded with sea bass. While their catch was over 160, only 18 qualified to end up in the cooler. The larger fish were all over 16″. The best bait seemed to be bucktails with a long squid trailer. The water temperature finally registered over 60 degrees, and that seemed to have finally turned on the bite. There were a number of large sharks in the vicinity, and they saw one blue shark which must have been fully seven feet long swimming between schools of bunker.

Captain Jim Hutchinson Sr. fished his boat the “Clam Chaser” in the Recreational Fishing Alliance’s Fluke Fishing Tournament last weekend with his son Jim Jr. and grandson Alex Harris. Although they finished out of the money, they weighed in four nice fluke caught on yellow Gulp swimming mullets in the Middle Grounds off Beach Haven.

Additional information on the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.bhcfa.net.

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

Received: Jun 11, 2015 6:30 AM Subject: Pez Machine Canyon Reports – Hot Fishing!!

Two friends just called from the edge between midnight and 4am and said, “Get your yourself out here!”

Between the two boats they had 52 yellowfin and 2 bigeyes! Insane fishing.

Between now and the 15th of July “Pez Machine” will have very charter days open but we do have the following:

June 17th — available for canyon day troll or sharking
June 25th-26th — 3 spots available on open boat canyon overnighter
June 30th — available for day troll or sharking
July 2nd-5th — wide open
July 13th — available for canyon day troll or inshore fluking

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

~ Capt. Stew Hitchner Pez Machine Sportfishing 609.287.5136

June 10, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Shimano America has some new products coming soon.

A New Shimano Stradic is arriving this Summer… it’s the Stradic ST-FK! For more details click… goo.gl/Uevr1G

Shimano also has new high end jigging and popping rods as well as other reels. One of those new reels coming to the USA market is one that I really like. It has been available only in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) for a while. This reel is basically a step-up from a Saragosa and more affordable than the Stella. Sorry can’t drop the name or more details yet. Still another reel is a re-designed existing smaller model series. It’s going to be a sweet affordable spinning reel that will be great for Barnegat Bay fishing.

G.Loomis has a new inshore rod series coming and some really nice technical apparel.

Yes, New things are coming from Shimano America…. Keep your eyes and ears alert.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Jun 10, 2015 9:56 PM Subject: Todays Report

We ran north to the Seaside Piers for today’s Open Boat trip with Bill Buckham and his daughter Liz of Lansdale, PA . We put out a pair of Maja bunker spoons and about an hour and a half into the troll, the green spoon got hammered. Liz grabbed the rod and 15 minutes later we decked a 38-1/2 pound striper. An hour later the center rod goes off hard and we dropped that fish after a short battle. Seemed to be another good fish considering how much line it dumped off the reel. We were in 60 to 65 feet of water. Good single fish marks. A few pods of bunker on the surface. Some more on the machine. Whales and porpoise throughout. Nice clean water, 61 degrees. We came back into the bay and added a 19 inch fluke on the drift along with a few shorts before we hit the dock.

Have one guy for tomorrow (Thurs) afternoon’s trip, need at least one more to sail, can take up to two more. Short notice is OK. Have two people signed on for Friday afternoon, room for one more. Also running Sunday and Monday.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

June 8, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

“June 9, 2015 – Matt from Fisherman’s Headquarters reported a sporadic striper bite along the Island sands, with fresh bunker chunks catching shorts and a few keepers along with a smattering of bluefish. From dusk into dark there are some bass being picked off with plugs from the jetty at Barnegat Light. Fluking in the bay is so-so with the squid/killie combo and bucktail/Gulp! putting some keepers in the coolers. Crabbing is just starting to get going in area lagoons and the bay.”

Received: Jun 8, 2015 5:22 PM Subject: Back Bay or Ocean

We fished the bay the last few days as the ocean forecast did not look great. As it turned out, the sea condition was not as bad as predicted, but the big stripers didn’t cooperate for those who tried. The only fish I even heard of was trolled by Brian Ewan from my marina, trolling spoons off of Island Beach State Park on Sunday. Is it winding down, or over? Did they pass us up because of the arctic-like water temperature all last week? I doubt it. We still have plenty of time. June has always been a great month for snag and drop fishing as well as trolling spoons. We might not have them in our backyard as we would always hope but I’m ready to run. The plan is as always: Out the inlet, make a left and keep going until you find the bunker with the fish. Sometimes Island Beach, sometimes Lavallette, last year I had to run to Asbury Park and Deal some days to get into fish. Oh well! I have no north to south limits, only east. Topped off, we can run for two days. If you want to catch these big stripers… be ready. That wind is going W, SW, and NW. Going to be some flat ocean conditions coming up. Good bunker spotting water.

We did alright in Barnegat Bay over the weekend. Wasn’t great, but we caught some fish. Saturday we had a bunch of short fluke and some bluefish on poppers. Sunday I had my old friends and Fisherman Magazine alumni on board, Mike Brullo, Nick Honachefsky, and Austin Perilli. After catching a lot of short fluke Austin Perilli of Brooklyn, NY asked for the net, I grabbed it and freaked when I saw what he so calmly called a “good fish” laying along the side of the boat, an 8.5-pounder that was caught on a jig in Barnegat Bay! Austin also added a 19″ just to keep us in our place. Had a blast with those guys. Added a 20 inch fluke later in the afternoon along with some blues on poppers.

Sailing Open Boat or charter Wed, Thurs, Fri, June 10, 11, and 12. Noon to 6PM. Ocean or bay. Whatever you guys want to do. We have the weather finally. We could target the blues and fluke in the bay or go hunting for the big bass out front, or some of each.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: Jun 8, 2015 7:11 AM Subject: Old Barney Charters Weekend Report

Saturday, had the Kyle Smith charter out fluke fishing. They caught 40+ fish with 4 keepers to 21″. All fish caught on the North-end drifting channel edges.

Sunday, had George Smajda charter. Fishing was a bit slower than Saturday but the group managed to catch a couple dozen fluke. The only keeper turned out to be the biggest fish of the weekend at 22″.

All fish were caught using Gulp! that was matched with the lightest bucktail we could hold bottom with, or on a teaser above the bucktail.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt “Bonnie Anne” 25′ Steiger Craft, Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

June 7, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:30 PM

We had two nice bass weighed in this morning.

Riley Harris of Shamong weighed in a 37-1/2″ 19-lb 3-oz bass. He caught it off of the Harvey Cedars surf on bunker at about 7:15 AM.

Chris Bender of Manahawkin weighed in a 42-1/4″ 27-lb 9-oz bass. He caught it off of the Holgate surf using clam last night about 10:30 PM. Bender moved into second place in our side-bet.

Last night store staffer Blake found some bass on the chew. He reported catching more than a handful, “Most were schoolies, but one hit felt like a bigger class.”

Captain Jeff Warford was out sharking again today. He had a great trip yesterday and an even better time today. Jeff reported, “Another great trip today with a great group of guys! This was a WaterProof/BlueRunner tutorial trip on a 25′ Sea Hunt. We had lines in at 9am and we were cleaning the boat by 10:30. Got one 85” mako that was about 250+ pounder.

~ FishHead.Greg

Received: Jun 7, 2015 10:45 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Even though the end of last week’s weather did not cooperate the fish did. Thursday and Friday were magic hour trips with Brian Farmer from Hotlanta, GA.

Thursday, we found somewhat places out of the wind to fish and scored big blues on poppers. Video link youtu.be/U3oKSrs-PdU tell the story. After that we found some schoolie bass willing to take worms and BKDs for some light tackle action.

Friday evening after the fog rolled in the Debbie M went stealthy to find the sounder lite up with schoolie bass. The action was all on worms. It is nice to see a good number of shorts bass hanging out around the inlet and back this time of year.

Sunday I flew solo and departed from the expertise zone (some may call it conformity zone) and went looking the put a few sea bass on ice. With the wind and current light a few miles off the beach I drifted over some rough patches any put three nice fish in the cooler before heading in. During my travels I did read some schools of bunker in 50-60 feet of water. They were scattered and not very big.

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

Received: Jun 7, 2015 2:58 PM Subject: LBI Charters Weekend Recap

Had Andrew and boys out in miserable weather Friday morning. Wind rain and cold. Fished a bluefish bite and we called it a day.

Next up had Chad, Ken, Dan and Jake out on Saturday. Weather ended up being better than predicted and group went to work putting 56 sea bass and a ling in the boat.

Sunday, had Jamie, Shannon, Scott and Brian out. Headed back offshore picked away at one location and found what we were looking for. Ended with 67 sea bass, a cod and a ling.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

11:20 AM

Ryan Dellane was on the bay today and shared this report, “Another successful day of fluking but a rainy morning to start. Fished the incoming tide and had to search for the warmer water. Found some warmer water in channels away from the inlet. Fished both bucktails with the white gulp swimming mullet and live minnows. Live big bait was the ticket and ended up with 14 shorts and one keeper at 19-inches.

Dan DiPasquale tagged us in a post on Instagram. The photo showed a quality summer flounder with a caption, “solid day of back bay angling #fluke, lbi #bucktails.” Looks like Dan found some flatties in the bay and they were chewing jigs.

We got a report of some quality thresher sharks about 10 miles outside Barnegat Light. One of our bunker guys was in the shop today purchasing some new Dexter Knives. While here he reported his catching as well as another boat in the area.

Jeff Warford gave us a call at closing time and reported a very good day on the water. He reported 6 makos up to 150-lbs and five blue sharks. He fished 60-degree water about 35-miles out of Barnegat Inlet. It’s go time. Look for a window and run.

We also got a report from a customer who sharked inshore/offshore Saturday. He reported getting into the makos. More details as we get them.

~ FishHead.Greg

June 6, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Jun 6, 2015 11:47 PM Subject: Fishing report

I caught a 28-inch striped bass in the surf in Harvey Cedars Saturday evening using bunker.

~ Rob Solomon

Received: Jun 6, 2015 9:31 AM Subject: Last night catch

Last night’s catches; 40″ Striped Bass, 18″ Summer Flounder. Caught in mid-island surf using bunker chunks on the incoming high tide.

~ Mike Commisso

June 5, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: June 5, 2015 2:32 PM Subject: Blowout Weekend! … still fishing though

Wow. Be careful what you wish for. We needed some easterly winds to correct all the damage a week of southerly winds did to our coastline, and man are we getting it. We are on day four of a heavy NE wind and there is no end in sight through the weekend. The bad news is all that wind is going to keep me and a lot of other captains from getting out the inlet. That ocean is very rough already and without some reciprocal direction of wind to knock it down it’s going to stay jacked up for a few days at least. The good news is that this is exactly what we needed. The water temp should get back to the high 50’s or higher and hopefully the bunker pods and big stripers will be up and down the coast. Keep an eye on the forecast for this week coming up. The long range has some W and NW coming our way. This could be our shot at an explosive few weeks of the big bass before they move on.

In the mean time, the Hi Flier will be fishing all weekend and Monday. Last week’s bay effort turned up a bunch of 3 to 7 pound blues on poppers, some short and keeper fluke, and quite a few short stripers on light tackle. Not much for the cooler, I know, but good action. Running Open Boat trips tomorrow (Sat), Sun, and Mon, June 6, 7, and 8. Going to anchor up and try some blowfish, too. I’m loaded up with fresh clams, live sandworms, and Gulp! Let the wind blow, we’ll go catch what we can. Sailing 6AM to 11AM, Noon to 6PM, each day, $130 per person. My cell is the best way to reach me 732.330.5674.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

11:00 AM

Yesterday evening Jason Delpalazzo weighed in a 23-lb 5-oz bass he caught off the surf chunking bunker. Jason now sits in third place in Simply Bassing and our side-bet.

Simply Bassing Live Results

Fisherman’s Headquarters Spring Striper Side-Bet Standings:
1st 31-lb 02-oz Rob Vallone
2nd 24-lb 12-oz Steve Wolfschmidt
3rd 23-lb 05-oz Jason Delpalazzo

Received: June 5, 2015 10:48 AM Subject: Press Release – Barnegat High School Fishing Club

Thursday’s conditions were rough with steady 10-15kt Northeast winds and some higher gusts, but four ocean county schools (Barnegat, Lacey, MATES, Southern Regional) participated in their annual surf fishing competition. The schools were led by fishing club advisors: Brett Taylor-Barnegat, Bob McMaster-Southern, Dave Werner-MATES, and Jason Muermann-Lacey. This is the seventh year for the competition which originally started between Barnegat and Southern in 2009. Village Harbor Fishing club donated a trophy for the 1st competition, and it is given and held by the winner each year, similar to the Stanley Cup in the NHL.

This year’s competition was tough with only 1 fish amongst 40 participants (10 per team). Freshman Taylor Swisstack caught the tournament winning fish, a 29.5 inch Bluefish, putting Barnegat HS on the board. With the rough surf conditions (10-20mph winds and rain), it was the only fish caught and secured the victory. Final score: Barnegat-29.5, Southern-0, MATES-0, Lacey-0. This was Barnegat High School’s second victory (2011, 2015) and the team will retain the trophy until next year’s competition. Great job by all the kids and advisors in the tournament. A scholarship was also donated by the Long Beach Island Foundation to the winning team in the tournament.

Lastly, a huge thank you to Fisherman’s Headquarters for donating bait for the tournament and also to the Barnegat Light Heavers for officiating the event.

Thanks, Advisor Brett Taylor

June 4, 2015 ———————————————————————–

1:00 PM

After the long battle with the frigid upwelling, our local water temperature finally bounced back and stabilized over the past couple of days. Thanks to the persistent north/north-easterly flow that pushed the ocean’s surface water on to the beach. It subsequently put the chilly upwelled water back where it belongs in the deep. What were 20+ degree water temperature swings with the tides are now about 5 degree fluxuations. At the transition from May to June the Barnegat Bay Bouy recorded outgoing (bay temperature) water north of 70 degree and incoming tide (ocean temperatures) well below 50 degrees. That’s a drastic swing!

Once things stabilized. The fishing picked up right where it left off. There were some great reports off of the surf Wednesday night and Thursday. The night’s cloud covered “Strawberry” full moon offered some quality bass and better yet, the day time was productive too. A number of anglers reported a good northeast wind in your face and beautiful clean white water (no grass). Best of all active bass on bunker chunks! The bass were on the chew.

Some recent weigh-ins…Robbie Vallone’s (in yesterday morning’s report) 31-lb 2-oz, Patrick Olson’s 22-lb 14-oz and Jason DelPalazzo’s 20-lb 8-oz. All caught chunking bunker. Reports of other bass caught too. Nick A. caught a pair of bass in the mid 30″ range last night. FYI there are bluefish and doggies in the mix to keep things interesting.

Positive report of schoolies off the bayside docks! Over the past few days some customers have looked to the ba side and found life. Store staffer Kevin has been plugging up some nice linesiders on the bayside. He reported recently catching a monster 36″ bluefish. “I’m having a blast on light tackle. The Quantum Smoke has been singing!”

Last night I put in a couple hours and found some healthy bass chewing on plugs. I had a slow pick at ’em at the top of the tide. As soon as it slacked the bite died. I fished through the slack and called it a night. Not sure how many others were out, cause I didn’t see any other lights. But for those that were, did you see a ton of horseshoe crabs? I lost count at 25 mating pairs. Horseshoe crabs gone wild! Must be the moon. I’ve never seen such an abundance of the ancient creatures. I guess it’s a good sign.

~FishHead.Greg

June 3, 2015 ———————————————————————–

4:00 PM

Fresh bunker just arrived!

Received: June 3, 2015 10:44 AM Subject: BHCFA Report

Strong winds have been prevalent in the Beach Haven area for well over a week. First the winds were pretty much from the southwest and now they are howling from the northeast. When the captains of the Beach Haven Charter fishing Association are able to get some fishing in, they are finding a decent assortment of fish.

Captain Fran Verdi ran an “open boat” trip recently for his first wreck fishing trip of the season on the “Francesca Marie.” Sean Carey and Randy Ritz fished on wrecks in 65-80 feet of water. They found some outstanding blackfish action with many of the fish keeper-sized. Unfortunately, with the season closed, all of the blackfish went back in. They also found a decent bite on black sea bass and managed a nice amount of them. Captain Fran had the Mannix party out another day looking for striped bass to the north. He located some bait up in Ortley Beach but found no bass under them. Unless the bass make a sudden comeback, he plans on focusing on sea bass as well as fluke and tuna.

Captain Carl Sheppard had Irv and Muriel Stoops of Palmyra, NJ, out on the “Starfish” for a wreck fishing trip looking for black sea bass. He learned that the wrecks either had very few fish or were loaded with the sea bass. In just a couple hours of the fishing the pair of anglers caught over 40 bass, of which 15 were large blue backed fish.

Captain Gary Dugan of “Irish Jig” Sportfishing braved the winds a couple of days seeking fluke in Great Bay waters. He reports that they had steady action with plenty of throwbacks and a few nice flatties making it to the cooler for dinner. There was also a mix of bluefish and smooth dogfish to keep the rods bent most of the time.

The renowned Junior Mate Program of the BHCFA is now accepting applications for its 2015 class. The first class will be on Thursday, June 25, at the Beach Haven Maritime Museum. This program is for teenagers looking to learn more about fishing and become competent to serve as mates on fishing boats. Captain John Lewis says there are some changes in the program this year that will make for some enjoyable evenings. One big night will be Thursday, July 2, when Captain Michael Yocco of the championship boat “MJ’s” will speak on canyon fishing. Complete information on the Junior Mates Program as well as the BHCFA can be found at www.BHCFA.net

Additional information on the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.BHCFA.net ~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

8:00 AM

Rob Vallone weighed in a 43.5″ 31-lb 2-oz bass this morning. He caught it last night on bunker fishing Harvey Cedars. Rob currently holds the lead in the Simply Bassing Surf Tournament. Click here for the live results page.

June 2, 2015 ———————————————————————–

12:45 PM

Fresh Bunker Is Here!

10:30 AM

Fresh bunker is expected about 12-1pm today.

Store staffer Blake enjoyed his day off yesterday. He reported catching a couple bass off of the surf on Super Strike lures.

Store staffer Kevin was having fun hooking schoolie bass in the bay until he hooked himself. Nothing a trip to the ER can’t fix.

Sean Kenny gave us a boat report, “Went out sharking on Saturday looking for mako but got covered up in bluesharks. Caught nine all together. It was frustrating.”

Received: June 2, 2015 7:18 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters Weekly Report

Last weeks sustain Southerly winds have wreak havoc on ocean temps dropping them from an ideal “bass” temp of 57-60 to a steep polar plunge of 46 degrees in the matter of a few days. With a more favorable Easterly wind pattern change forecasted over the next few days let’s hope that’ll get things back on track.

The Mike Burkhardt party started their day with more fun and exciting top water light tackle bluefish action . The guys were fast into an exciting visual early morning blitz when the sun’s early morning rays had the schools of bluefish all lit up ! Within minutes of the dock we had rolling 5-10lbs bluefish on a shallow 3-4ft flat, drags screaming and rods bending from these brutes. Moving on we worked our way out to the striper grounds only to find ocean temps in the mid forties in close to the beach, moving out to the three mile line we found better water temps but no love . Back to the bay we ended the day fluking with only a few shorts before trips end.

The Tim McWilliams crew was up next opting to stick it out in the bay mixing it up with more fun light tackle action The guys had a solid morning not only with those big burly bluefish but also had solid action with stripers in the 22-26″ range. At times we had multiple stripers on through the morning before the cold incoming tide shut the bite down.

I have this Friday afternoon 5pm-8pm happy hour special available for both striper and bluefish light tackle action. Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

June 1, 2015 ———————————————————————–

11:45 AM

The 8th Annual “Striper Shootout” hosted by the High Point Vol. Fire Co. is Saturday, June 13, 2015. The all boat striped bass fishing tournament and fish fry is a great community event. Don’t miss out on a great time! Captain’s meeting is at the High Point Vol. Fire Company (West 80th Street in Harvey Cedars) on Friday, June 12, 2015 at 7pm. For more information: www.hpvfc.com

Received: May 31, 2015 10:38 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Typical for this time of year is when it gets hot on land the water temperature plummets as it did this week. As hot air over land rises it is displaced by cooler air sitting over the ocean. This is what causes our southerlies. While that is happening the surface of the ocean water is moving perpendicular, towards the east, of the wind. This causes the warmer surface water to be displaced (upwelled) by colder bottom water. Well this week this pattern caused to ocean to drop to sub 50 in some locations. Barnegat Bay has warmed up big time and is holding in the low 70s for the most part, maybe warmer in some places. What this means for fishing is that depending on where you fish you have to keep this in mind. Friday night’s Magic Hour Trip for Dereck Bonk of Toms River proved to be just that, magic. Sandworms dragged in the right place at the right time was effective for schoolie bass on light rods. After that I moved up onto the flats at dusk where blues in the 4 -10 pound range started rolling and splashing as they fed. Working poppers drew great visual strikes even with the sun long gone as our eyes adjusted on a glass calm night. Here is a picture of one of the many fish landed that night. Do you think you can figure out where I was fishing 😉

Sunday I took some time on the water to plot a bunch of changes that occurred during the winter. As this season progresses these will be some key areas I take my clients to get not only away from the crowds but on the fish! While doing that I came across an all-out drop and reel BIG bluefish (10 pound plus) assault at the mouth of Barnegat inlet. With the inland temps so high and ocean cold it was pretty foggy. The blues where feeding in the warmer bay water that was pouring out on tide’s ebbs. It was crazy fishing. Even the Miss BL was in on the action. Screaming Drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

May 31, 2015 ———————————————————————–

1:30 PM

The hot topic is back again! Paul Haertel of the Jersey Coast Angler’s Association posted on our Facebook page…

Stop New Jersey’s Fishing Grounds from Getting Blasted!!! A proposed Rutgers University Seismic Study will sweep the ocean just off Long Beach Island. With blasts 250 decibels (100,000 times louder than a jet at take-off) every 5 seconds, 24 hours a day for 30 days fishing will be affected. Studies show that fish can be injured or scared off by seismic blasts. The study area and the affected fishing grounds: all inshore and offshore wrecks, the Fingers, Barnegat Ridge, the Lillian Wreck, 28 Mile Wreck and over 230 square miles of ocean will be directly impacted. The LOUD blasts will travel far beyond study impact zone. Everyone from Surfcasters to Back Bay Anglers to Offshore Fishermen will be impacted!

YOU CAN HELP!!! CONTACT RUTGERS PRESIDENT ROBERT BARCHI: 848-932-7454 and email the President today president.rutgers.edu/contact/send-message-president-barchi

TELL HIM TO STOP THIS SUMMER’S STUDY!!! For more information: CleanOceanAction.org

May 30, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:30 PM

Joseph Kieffer post on our Facebook page… Last night after hitting you guys up for some bunker and mullet, finally my first legal striper this year. In between all the sharks and skates we managed two blues and one bass.

Received: May 30, 2015 1:32 PM Subject: Topwater Blues and Light Tackle Stripers

Excellent morning of fishing today. Birds and blues breaking water. We threw poppers at 5 to 10 pound bluefish for two hours before changing things up. Switched our focus to stripers and after striking out on the clams for an hour we switched over to the drift with worms and clobbered them. They were all 20 to 24 inch fish, but big enough to burn some drag on our 10 pound outfits. All in Oyster Creek.

Running Open Boat or Charter the next two days (Sun and Mon). They’ll still be there and so will we. Boat is iced up, fueled up, cooler is loaded with bait.

Call to reserve a spot. ~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

1:00 PM

Adam Aguiar weighed in a 37″ 18-lb 5-oz striped bass today. He caught it early this morning off of the surf.

11:45 AM

Lenny was in the shop last night when we were closing preparing for a night surf session. He was back in this morning gearing up for another session. He reported nothing but garbage fish and blues last night.

Received: May 30, 2015 6:27 AM Subject: 5/29 LBI Charters

After strong winds the first 2 days of sea bass season kept us at the dock we had a beautiful day on Friday. The fish cooperated too. Not lock and load fishing but good enough. Had our boat limit of 60 sea bass 5 keeper cod 2 ling another 10 or so throwback cod and some nice blackfish that had to go back. Taking today off to go pick up new boat.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

May 29, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:00 PM

Captain Mike Greene of Lucky Stripes Charters was on the water this morning and went three for four on big bass. His biggest was a 48 pounder!!! Mike said the water temp where he was fishing was 48-51 degrees. He mentioned that he has a lot of days booked but still has a couple prime dates available. Anyone looking to fish with Capt. Greene should give him a call as soon as possible. ~ Capt. Mike Greene Lucky Stripes Charters 718.644.6087

Austin Pounds weighed in a 3-lb 3-oz sea bass for the Beach and Boat Tournament today. The fish was 19.5″ long with a 13″ girth.

Hop Sauce is tomorrow Saturday May 30 from 11 am-7pm at the Taylor Ave Waterfront in Beach Haven (between 9th Street and Taylor Ave west of Bay Village). $10 Entry Fee or $40 Beer Sampling Bracelets. Hop Sauce – A gathering of craft beer and spice enthusiasts! The second annual festival is open to all ages, inviting you to pair local fare with regional hot sauces, listen to original music and wash it down with a sampling from a variety of 20+ craft beers. Must be 21+ to sample craft beers/ ID checked at gate.

Here is some info from the NJDEP Fish and Wildlife: New Record Cunner Certified – For the second time this week and third time this month, the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife has officially certified a new state record saltwater fish. Jorge Antonio Costa of Philadelphia reeled in the newest record, a Cunner weighing 3 pounds, 2.4 ounces at 16.5″ in length. For more information, including a photo of the new record fish, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2015/reccunner15.htm on the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife web site.

11:00 AM

Edward W. Cherry was born in Bridgeport, CT on March 12, 1935 to Thomas and Helen Cherry. Ed spent his childhood in Fairfield CT where he developed his lifelong passion for fishing. Ed moved with his family to Clifton in 1948 and attended high school at St. Peters Prep in Jersey City NJ where he played Varsity Football. Ed later studied at Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI where he earned a Bachelor of Science in 1956 and then Fairleigh Dickinson University where he earned a DDS.

At Marquette, he met Marilyn Puetz of Skokie, Illinois and they married in 1959 in Evanston, Il. Ed practiced dentistry in Oak Ridge (Milton), NJ from 1964 until his retirement in 1996. Ed served on the Board of Health for Jefferson Township and was a devoted fan of the Jefferson Township Falcon Football and Track teams for many years.

Ed spent his retirement in Manahawkin and then Waretown, NJ as well as winters in Englewood Florida. During his retirement he became known as one of the best weakfish fisherman in Barnegat Bay. He was a championship caliber recreational fisherman, winning or placing in numerous fishing tournaments during his retirement. Ed was a multiple honoree of the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife Skillful Angler Award Winners. Ed helped form the Village Harbor Fishing Club, was a Board Member of the Jersey Coast Anglers Association, Chairman JCAA striped bass committee, and advised on fishery conservation issues by representing New Jersey on the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, Atlantic Menhaden Advisory Panel, amongst others.

Ed is survived by his wife of 55 years, Marilyn and their four sons and wives and children; Christopher and Carolyn Cherry of Chatham; James and Christina Cherry of Hillsborough; Timothy and Elin Cherry of Westfield; and Joseph and Ali Cherry of Metuchen; and 9 grandchildren, Lauren, T.J., Marissa, Madison, Margo, Andrew, Hannah, Jakob, Alex and Clifford Cherry, his brother, of Vero Beach, Fl.

A memorial service will be held 10:30 AM on Wednesday, June 3, 2015 at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 502 Raritan Avenue, Highland Park, NJ 08904. Arrangements are by Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 East Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Edward Cherry to the Stripers Forever, PO BOX 2781, South Portland, ME 04116.

Received: May 29, 2015 9:05 AM Subject: Plan B… Barnegat Bay!

What a mess! This south wind is relentless. After a long holiday weekend camping in VA, I was anxious to get out bass fishing. I ran out on Tuesday cruising the shoreline for bunker and trolling bunker spoons in the deeper water from IBSP to Mantaloking……nothing. The water temp was 44 degrees. We need some wind from the east, north, northeast, …….anything without an “s” in it to repair this situation. It doesn’t take long either. Just a few days of easterly will get us back to where we need to be. Hopefully the striper fishing will pickup where it left off once the temp is right.

The good news is we can still go fishing. The bay is 64/65 degrees on the west side and the east side fluctuates with the tide. Here’s the plan: I ordered a flat of sandworms to try drifting for weakfish in the local haunts where they could be. Are they here? I have no idea, but I know where to try. I also ordered a bushel of fresh clams to go anchor up in Double Creek and try my favorite tide for stripers. Also don’t know if they are in the bay, as like most, I have been way too distracted with the bluefish run early in the season and more recently the big bass along the coast. I’m going to anchor up in my favorite spot on the high water slack, and sling clams until we get something going. We could also drift and jig for fluke as that season is now open. Some of the early season fish are good size. I always have the popper rods ready to throw at the small blues that have now replaced the gator blues in the bay.

I”ll tell you what, that’s not a bad Plan B. Thank God for Barnegat Bay! We are going to try for weakfish, stripers, fluke, and blues and never break the inlet. Running Open Boat or charter starting tomorrow, Friday, May 29, 1PM to 7PM. Sat, Sun, and Mon, May, 30, 31 and June 1, 6AM to Noon. $150 per person. 3 people max. 1PM to 7PM charters also available Sat, Sun, and Mon.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

May 28, 2015 ———————————————————————–

10:30 AM

The persistent southerly winds have upwelled large body of cold deep ocean water onto our beaches. The surf water temps were stable in the high 50’s for quite some time. Now they have plummeted into the low 50’s and keep creeping lower. The Barnegat Bay buoy (located at the BL Coast Gaurd Station) recorded a low of 48-49 degrees on this mornings incoming tide. This bouy shows ocean water temperatures during the incoming tide and bay water temperatures on the outgoing. The last outgoing tide last night was still above the 65 degree mark.

As a result, the fishing has suffered. The phenomenal bluefish bite and the striped bass action has shut down. We are still in the prime time spring fishing season/migration so the fish aren’t gone completely. There’s still lots more great fishing to be had. Hopefully the weather pattern will change and the southerly flow will let up. In the meantime, look around for the warmer water temperatures where fish will be much more active. The other night Blake and I smoked the bass fishing the bay. We caught ’em on bucktails and rubber shads. The bass ranged from schoolie to mid-thirty inch range. We both dropped quality fish too.

~FishHead.Greg

May 27, 2015 ———————————————————————–

1:00 PM

It is with deep regret that we inform of the passing of Dr. Edward Cherry this evening. He was the greatest of men. Ed was a friend of anglers and of the fisheries as he represented so many, so well, so may years. Not may know of the time and hard work that he put into starting and supporting clubs and fisheries management. The fishing community has lost a valuable supporter.

On a personal level Ed was more than a friend. Perhaps brother is a better way to describe our relationship. Dear Ed, you have worked so hard to create so much that you can be proud of. May you rest in rest in peace knowing that you have done so much so well. I am so thankful for your friendship. You will be sadly missed.

~ Stan, Fisherman’s Headquarters

Received: May 27, 2015 10:53 AM Subject: BHCFA Weekly Report

Memorial Weekend has come and gone on Long Beach Island, with the boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association experiencing no difficulty finding an abundance and variety of fish for their anglers. Once again big bluefish dominated the action.

The “Star Fish” with Captain Carl Sheppard fished multiple days over the weekend and found big blues both days. Sometimes they just looked for screaming bird play, and other days they scored trolling blind. These blues are real tackle busters with the smallest around 10-pounds and the largest checking in at 16.5-pounds. One day Captain Carl tried the back bay waters looking for fluke but managed to find only one 20-inch keeper along with two shorts. He is looking for some spectacular fishing when the black sea bass opens this week.

Captain George Finck of “Sparetime Charters” had Dane and Denise Hartmann along with Al Meyer in the ocean looking for some of those big yellow-eyed bluefish. They trolled up as many blues as they wanted to reel in. All of the action was trolling a variety of lures.

Captain Gary Dugan of Irish Jig Sportfishing” had a group out Saturday looking for a catch of fluke in Great Bay. The conditions of wind against the tide most of the day made establishing good drifts very difficult if not impossible. They managed a few shorts along with one 19-inch keeper. Captain Gary took his group to the inlet where they had a good time bailing monster bluefish that were feeding on peanut bunker. The blues were an exciting way to end the day.

It has been difficult to pinpoint exactly where the striped bass will be, but boats fishing in the ocean have been finding bass from Wreck Inlet to Seaside both by live lining snagged bunker and trolling bunker spoons. In addition, the opening of black sea bass season will spark wreck and reef fishing. The early bite for sea bass should be very strong.

Additional information on the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association can be found at www.BHCFA.net ~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

May 26, 2015 ———————————————————————–

4:00 PM

Bill Bousant reported fishing the surf yesterday. He caught 7 fluke up to 20″ (the one keeper) and missed a handful in a short period of time. Bill said, “With the wind it was brutal up there but it was a good start to the season!”

Dave Werner posted a nice photo of a fluke with a caption “5 pounder flounder, first fluke of the season”.

Lots of shark anglers got amped seeing Mary Lee cruise up the coast and hang around our local waters. Now it’s time to go. Finally we got our first shark report. Marty Anderson was out fishing the 30 line in 60 degree water a few days ago. He reported lots of blue sharks. They managed to hook up with some feisty thresher sharks which went airing out. Marty said they broke off two and boated a 200+ pounder.Check out this photo of an acrobatic thresher!

I guess it is official!!! We just saw the email press release from the NJ DEP Fish and Wildlife on the NEW NJ STATE RECORD GRAY TILEFISH!!!

“Mark Milici of Doylestown, PA, made his way onto the NJ state record fish list recently by landing a 23 pound, 4 ounce Gray Tilefish. Mark was fishing off a boat when he reeled in the fish, eclipsing the previous record caught last year by 4 ounces.” For those interested in more details you can scroll down and see the weigh-in report which was posted on the 9pm update on May 15th or click here for more information Just a heads up, all of the paperwork has been complied and will be submitted soon to the IGFA. We will all have to wait and see how it goes.

9:30 AM

Lee and Steve from the Berkely Striper Club weighed in a pair of nice bass this morning. Steve checked in a 46.5″ 36.5-lber that he caught on bunker and Lee had a 45″ 34.6-lber that he caught on a Mag Darter.

Gary G. caught a 6-lb weakfish and a couple cocktail blues fishing the mid-island bay this past weekend.

Received: May 25, 2015 8:13 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

The bass are definitely here with narrow windows for snag-n-drop fishing, and a bunch caught trolling Maja’s, but we will have to see how this week’s south winds affect the bite. Meanwhile, the fluke season has officially began with the backwaters holding biting fluke on the right tide. It’s always about finding the right water temp his time of year for a decent fluke bite.

Aside from some family obligations, I was able to get out for an afternoon 4-hr bay charter on Saturday. I had Patrick Scholes and his 6-yr old son Henry from Westchester, NY in the back for some flukin’. We did have the start of the outgoing tide, but stiff south-east winds made for several wind against tide scenarios. Henry was first to strike with a few throwbacks, but we found ourselves contending with a lot of snot grass. After a few moves, we finally found an area that showed signs of life, clean water, and higher water temps. Although the conditions were far less than optimal, Patrick connected on a nice 4-lb fluke that measured 22 inches on a S&S Bucktails Big Eye tipped with Gulp bait. There is nothing like jigging fluke in skinny water. Nice job by the father and son team.

I do have this Friday afternoon available (2:30 to 6:30pm OR 2:30 to 7:30pm), and Saturday morning available – if interested give me a ring or book through the website. Once the school year ends (June 19th), we will be running 7 days a week. As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ICE – you just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing Charters 609.290.7709

Received: May 25, 2015 7:49 AM Subject: Memorial Day Weekend

Spent the weekend with family. Fished for stripers a couple hours Sunday morning with no takers on spoons trolling off Lavallette. Decided to move to double creek for fluke. Managed 2 keepers with largest 24″. Most fish were caught on minnows, some on gulp!, and many were spitting up grass shrimp. Trips booked next couple weekends with only open date 6/7.

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

May 25, 2015 ———————————————————————–

11:30 AM

Jim Perkins just got back from the edge. He reported no tuna at the Lindy for him and his buddies. Jim said they switched gear and targeted tilefish. They limited out with tiles up to 30-lbs.

Ryan Sherwood of Manahawkin weighed in 47″ 43.05-lb bass this morning. He caught it off of the south end surf in the early morning hours on a Super Strike.

Received: May 25, 2015 10:03 AM Subject: LBI Charters Memorial Day Report

Started off Friday in lots of wind with Eric and Eric Sr. Started off catching large blues in the inlet. Then tried snag and drop south of inlet. No bites. With the howling winds decided to try Fluking. Caught around 25 fish with 2 keepers to 4 lbs. Next up Kack and Andrew. Tried trolling spoons no good. Came back to inlet for every cast bluefishing. Last up Chris and Eric. Started catching blues but the boys wanted to try for a bass so made call to leave the fish and unfortunately the bass didn’t bite well Sunday. Sea bass opens Wednesday and new boat will be here Saturday so shoot an email.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: May 25, 2015 9:27 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Blues, Bass & Special Guest… George Poveromo!!!

Pretty exciting week on many fronts beginning with the highlight of having the great opportunity and privilege to fish with Mr. Salt Water Sportsman contributing editor and TV host of George Poveromo”s World Of Saltwater Fishing, Mr. George Poveromo!! Fishing with George was a fantastic experience in many ways but mostly to find he is truly the real deal when it comes to fishing and just an all around great guy to fish with. He’s enthusiasm and drive for fishing is second to none! Although the weather was challenging at times for both camera crew and anglers [ I and George] with dense fog, windy/bumpy conditions and rain we put together a solid show targeting topwater bluefish and then topped that off with George scoring a solid 30+lbs bass on the snag and drop! The TV shoot should air sometime in 2016 on NBC sports!! I don’t want to give to much away so we’ll just leave it at that.

Finding schools of bunker thick enough to snag have been key to success with some days they seem everywhere while the next day they are hard to come by. But the real key to success is not only finding the bunker but finding the “right school” with active feeding bass. Early morning or late afternoon seem to be the best window of opportunity to connect. Regulars Jay Simmons, Shawn Hawthorne, Ernie Rosenberg and Karl Steffan were out hoping to get in on the snag and drop bass action , unfortunately the schools of bunker were sparse at best with Ernie being the only one to put a nice 34lbs class bass into the cooler , a stop in the back bay had all on board scoring some fun top water action with 5- 10lbs blues before trips end. Next up was Ken Greenwald and crew who went 2 for 5 on the snag and drop putting a sweet 24lbs and 34lbs bass into the cooler before the bite shut down. Unfortunately we did end the week disappointingly for the Andy Peszka crew with only one knock down on the troll that came unbutton after the snag and drop produced no opportunities. Even the ever present and cooperative bluefish flipped us the fin seemingly no where to be found before heading for the barn.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: May 24, 2015 10:35 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

It’s that time of year when you don’t know which species you want to target. Big bass are showing on bunker schools along the beach along with big blues. There are still bass and blues in the bay to keep the rods bent and fluke season just opened on Friday. After a late cancellation for Saturday, I found my self trying to decide which species I wanted to target so I went with the one I wanted for dinner J, fluke. Worked some channels along flats the last of the outgoing tide to use the rise in temperature to my advantage. Ocean temperature is around 58 while Barnegat Bay is 64. That 6 degree temperature change often means a lot when it comes to early season fluke. Oh did I catch anything? During the last half hour of outgoing tide I boxed my 5 fish limit (attached picture). I also released 2 dozen shorts during the last two hours of outgoing. Biggest fish was 22” at 3.6 pounds. Not a bad Memorial Day meal. Crabbing is starting to pick up on the west side of the bay and some of the Jimmies are nice size. I like my crabs steamed but my wife likes garlic crabs. So garlic crabs it was. Sunday I took my wife fluking for the end of the outgoing tide. We did limit out like I did yesterday but we a lot of action and some keepers for the freezer.

On the nature side of thing: right now, thousands of Red Knots are gorging themselves on horseshoe crabs eggs along the NJ Delaware Bay shore. They just got here from an eight day flight from Argentina. Spending about two weeks to fatten up they will then fly north to the tundra to breed. There riming of their journey has coevolved with the reproduction of horseshoe crabs. Overharvesting of horseshoe crabs for eel bait and for their blue blood used in medicine has crashed their population by 70% over the last few years. These birds are being closely monitored as to their health and population size. Some of the tagged birds have flown the distance to the moon in their lifetime. Kind of crazy when you think about it as the average Red Knot weighs 4.8 ounces.

If you are looking to catch some fish but don’t know what to fish for give me a call as I still have days open.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

May 24, 2015 ———————————————————————–

12:30 PM

This morning Jon Leshko caught a 21-lb 7-oz bass at sunrise. He was fishing bunker off of the mid-island surf.

Al Asplint sent us a photo and quick fluke report yesterday, “Caught these guys off Tuckerton on Gulp!”

May 23, 2015 ———————————————————————–

4:30 PM

This after noon Dan P. check in a 30-lb bass for the On The Water Striper Cup. He was fishing off of IBSP trolling spoons this morning. Dan reported a couple bunker pods were present.

John P. stopped in the shop and restocked with fresh bunker. He reported a slow night last night; however, during the day today he got into the blues when the wind shifted onshore.

Linda Harris weighed in a bass last night, 11.5-lbs on bunker mid-island surf. She also caught a good size bluefish.

We weighed one fluke (4.1-lbs) in yesterday on opening day. The angler reported catching it down south near the Stink House. We also got a report from our long time friend Wilbor. He reported catching one short, “The wind was honkin’ and the wave action was rough. One guy I talked to had seven shorts and one keeper.” Another customer stopped in to buy some Gulp and reported, “During the week I was occasionally catching a fluke off of the surf fishing small pieces of bunker for blues. One day I had two. Now that the season is open, I’m going to target them.”

May 22, 2015 ———————————————————————–

3:00 PM – It went off today!!!

Lots of bass and even more bluefish. Too many weigh ins to list ’em all.

Pete U. checked in a 44-lb monster that inhaled a Super Strike Black/Purple Darter. Pete said, “I released two nice fish in the 20-lb range and then BOOM!!! Epic battle! It was hung up deep in the gills and the the fish had no chance. I tried for over an hour to revive it but it was hurt.

James Carriero of Garfield stopped by with a lively 37.25-lb 45-1/2” bass. He reported, “I wasn’t on the beach for more than 15 minutes. On my third cast I was hooked up on a metal (Deadly Dick)! I lost my father about a month and a half ago… he sent this one my way!”

Larry O’Brian and Jimmy T. from Berline stopped in the shop and then were back a couple hours later with a 22-lb bass. Larry reported hooking up on clam fishing the mid-island surf, not far from the shop. Larry said I wish I got the next fish but it was too big. Right after landing the 22# another fish was hooked up but spooled ’em in no time.

Now is the time!!!

8:00 AM

Just had a pair of weigh-ins from the surf.

Steve George weighed in a 42-3/4″ 29.25-lb bass that he caught on a plug. Lenny weighed in a 43″ 29 pounder that he caught on a bunker chunk. Lenny said this morning at sunrise he dropped a fish on a bunker head and then stuck the one with a chunk.

It’s officially fluke season and we already got a photo of a fluke!

After working all day on my birthday yesterday, I decided to pull an all nighter to get some fishing in. I tied up loose ends and headed out at about midnight. It wasn’t long and I was in. I released a small bass about 10-12 pounds. A couple casts later I had another bite and this one felt like a much better size fish. Unfortunately after a couple runs the hook pulled. Major bummer! There was a lull for a half hour or so and then the bluefish invaded. It wasn’t every cast but just about. It was a fun filled night ~FishHead.Greg

May 21, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:00 PM

Just a short while ago we got a batch of some primo bunker, fresh off of the boat. We expect deliveries daily all weekend. Stop in for some primos!

Store staffer Steve Wolfschmidt weighed in a 41″ 24-lb 12-oz bass today. He caught it chunking bunker last night off of the surf. Steve-o is currently in second place for the Simply Bassing Surf Tournament.Click here for live results.

Rick W. from Ship Bottom was in the shop gearing up. He left and then was back about an hour later with a 40″ 21-lb 12-oz bass that he caught off of surf on bunker.

Pete U. chunked the beach last night and got into the bluefish. He also plugged up two bass about 15-lbs.

Austin Pounds gave us heads up he was trolling today off of LBI. He released 6 fish up to 40-lbs all over 25-lbs and killed one for the table. He stopped in the shop with the 47.5″ 39.60-lb and also checked it into the Beach and Boat Fishing Tournament.

Received: May 21, 2015 11:58 AM Subject: BHCFA Report

The story this week for the boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association is variety. Right now the captains are catching bluefish, striped bass, tuna, and drumfish while expecting fluke and black sea bass to be on the scene very shortly.

Captain Carl Sheppard had another bachelor party out fishing on the “Starfish” last weekend that maxed out the cooler on big bluefish. Captain Carl says the blues are being caught best slow trolling using Clark spoons and pony tails, although old fashioned rag mops worked well also Their big catch was snagging a line that resulted in an umbrella rig with 4 bluefish attached, all over 15-pounds. Both a net and a gaff were needed to bring the unusual catch into the boat. Captain Carl is looking forward to the start of fluke season as first indications are that they are around the bay and inlet in good numbers.

Captain Fran Verdi had the “Francesca Marie” out recently north of Barnegat Inlet trolling bunker spoons and managed to boat a 39-inch striper in addition to two other knockdowns that did not come tight. He too is looking forward to the start of fluke season as well as the upcoming sea bass segment next week. Captain Fran is also planning a trip to the tuna grounds in the very near future. With the number of bluefish and drumfish in the bay, he expects a very exciting month of June.

Captain Ray Lopez on the “Miss Liane” had Karl and son Pauli out catching bluefish all day in the bay, ocean, and inlet. Despite looking all over, no striped bass could be enticed to bite through the bluefish. Bob Stewart of Forked River changed the “Miss Liane’s” luck on another day as he reeled in a 42-inch bass. Once the bluefish slow down a little, Captain Ray expects his striper catches to increase.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky on the “Reel Determined” made a trip offshore and found a good temperature break. In addition to non-stop action on false albacore, his crew caught 6 bluefin tuna, tagging and releasing 4 while keeping 2 along with a nice yellowfin tuna.

Captain Tim Knorr reports that he has just about completed his upgrade projects on the “William Knorr.” He has added new AC in addition to an addition to the tuna tower to elevate the radar and VHF antennas, and to relocate the raft up onto the roof of the boat for better visibility and safety. He regrets his late start to the season, but is excited about the new upgrades. He will be on the water very shortly.

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

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

10:30 AM

We got a report this morning from a customer who said he trolled up some big bass off of the south end of LBI. The bite is still very good off of IBSP. Expect bumper boats this weekend.

Ryan S. stopped in the shop on his way out to fish. He posted a night time photo of a linesider with a caption, “Small 16-lber and some blues… good start to this weekend!”

Yesterday Anthony and Jacob Laurence and Noah Graham stopped by geared up and hit the beach. On their way off they stopped back to give a report and weigh one in. Anthony caught a 16-lb 4-oz bass off of the mid-island surf on bunker. He is currently in third place in the Simply Bassing Surf Fishing Tournament and the Fisherman’s Hq Side-Bet.

Kristi Reillo Cooper posted on our Facebook page, “A big thank you to the staffer this morning who helped me with my set up. I was flying solo and this girl caught a bluefish. South end on bunker two hours after high tide. It was a stunning day on the beach!”

Received: May 20, 2015 10:46 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

I fished Sunday with my wife and son and had blues on poppers and we probed some areas for fluke. Fluke season officially opens this Friday (May 22).

Midweek I had Executive Director of the American Fisheries Society, Dr. Doug Austen, with fellow industry experts’ James Vasslides and John Balletts on a 5hr bay charter. We had the start of the outgoing tide with a heavy NW wind and fished the flats with Tsunami poppers in 4ft of water – definitely was not as “fishy” as the week prior. After moving to a clamming location and getting situated on the hook, we started clamming for striped bass, but became inundated with 3-8lb blues. The guys had a ball catching the blue bruisers on both clam and throwing S&S rock hoppers in the slick. The guys ended throwing poppers at a few different locations and had a couple of hook ups.

I have Sunday (May 24) available for Striped Bass (Ocean) or Fluke (Bay) charters – if interested give me a ring or book through the website. As always we use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ice – you just come and FISH.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing Charters 609.290.7709

May 20, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:30 PM

I killed the blues in the Brant Beach surf. Ran out of bunker and then switched to metal. Landed 6 more. I could of had as many as I wanted. ~ Stan

Steve Thompson and Maria Pardo landed a 52″, 76.5 lb black drum! They were fishing out of Little Egg Inlet targeting striped bass with bunker. They were catching blues like crazy and then the monster. They reported it took both of them to bring it up to the boat. 20 minutes each and then finally gaff it and got it over the side! We weighed it in at the Beach Haven Marlin Tuna Club and then used a saw-zall to assist in filleting. Steve and Maria said the ugly sea monster had scales the size of a potato chip. Largest fish we ever caught! What a rush!”

Capt Ken Nutt aboard the Striper out of Barnegat Light gave us a short report… “We were into the bass again today! The Chris Eastburn charter today went 10 for 10 spooning off of Island Beach.” One of the angler Steve McClintock stopped by with his 44-lb 11-oz bass to weigh it in for the Fisherman Magazine Dream Boat Challenge.

9:30 AM – Live Minnows & Eels Are Here!

Robbie Vallone weighed in a 41.5″ 29-lb 12-oz bass. He caught it last night on bunker. He currently hold the lead in the Simply Bassing Surf Tournament and the Fishermans Hq Side-Bet.

We saw a photo post by Tyler Christensen of a nice bass on the beach with a caption, “First keeper of the season.”

May 19, 2015 ———————————————————————–

9:00 AM

We had a bass weighed in this morning. Nick Sabatino of Manahawkin weighed in a 38″ 22-lb 10-oz striper for the the Simply Bassing Surf Tournament and the Fishermans Hq Side-Bet. He caught it last night on bunker.

I headed out this morning for a quick bass trip with Captain Adam and Dane Nugent. We headed up the beach but didn’t find any life. Decided to head out into 60′ of water and that’s where we deployed the Maja spoons. Minutes into trolling one rod was doubled over. Shortly after another and then another. While the day was still young, we called it a day at 7am and headed into the dock. You couldn’t tell from the pea soup fog, but there were other boats out and also catching. We spoke to Capt Ken Nutt and he had five bass at the time we were heading in. I’m sure he pulled some more after.

~FishHead.Greg

May 18, 2015 ———————————————————————–

7:00 PM

Earlier today Phil and Christian from Manahawkin stopped in the shop with a pair of bass. They were pulling spoons off of IBSP and landed four bass from 26-32-lbs.

Capt. Ken Nutt was in the shop today. While here he reported quality bass fishing over the weekend. He said, “I fished Friday, Saturday and Sunday and plan to fish everyday this week. Friday we lost a good one, but managed to hammer the blues. Saturday we got a 25-lb bass snagging bunker and again had the blues. Sunday we went 2 for 3. Both were quality bass… one was 40 inches and the other was 45 inches. They are here and now is the time. If you want to go fishing give me a call.” ~ Capt. Ken Nutt, STRIPER 609.618.0658

Received: May 18, 2015 3:04 PM Subject: Open Boat Stripers and Blues Tomorrow (Tues) Afternoon

Bass fishing is starting to heat up. 25 to 40 pound fish in 55 to 65 feet of water from the Bathing Beach to Lavallette. Trolling bunker spoons is the best bet right now but we always bring the snagging rods just in case we happen upon some pods of bunker. Running Open Boat tomorrow (Tues) May 19. Departing at 1 PM, returning at 7 PM. $165 per person. 3 People max. All fish are shared. Going to run outside, make a left, head for the 60 foot range off of Island Beach State Park and put the spoons out. I will also bring the 10 pound spinning rods in case we feel like ending with an hour of blues on topwater lures in the bay. I like to be inside the inlet while it is still light out.

My next available day for charter or Open Boat would be Tues, May 26 (the day after Memorial Day) 12:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Also Thurs and Fri afternoons, May 28 and 29. Rates and details the same as above.

Here is a video one of my customers from Saturday shot with his cell phone, the fish was a 48″, 35 pounder.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: May 18, 2015 11:56 AM Subject: Blues, Blues, Blues

Went to the jetty down by the light yesterday (5/17), in Barnegat. Got there 2 hours before high tide and everyone said no hits for the previous hour plus. Did not even see a hit until an hour before high tide. Somebody turned on the switch. Everyone caught blues! And there were no small ones! ~ Cal

11:00 AM

Fresh Clams just arrive!

9:30 AM

Fishing on LBI is great! The bay, inlet, surf, inshore and offshore are all productive. See reports below for more details.

Trolling spoons along the beaches has been the best method for targeting the quality bass that are here. Expect the bunker pod fishing to tee off soon. It has already happened but not on a consistent basis.

Rich Rolenc weighed in a 32-lb 2-oz bass yesterday. He caught in trolling a #4 Maja bunker sppon outside of Barnegat Inlet. It was his only fish of the day.

We had a customer in the shop this morning purchasing a new extra large bass landing net. He said that he folded his last one over the weekend catching quality bass.

Received: May 17, 2015 10:31 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

Last day out was Saturday with the Galiardo boys from North Jersey. Knowing the blues were still around I decided to change it up and target bass in the bay. Kicking it semi-old school we went clamming for bass. Fishing away from the snot grass we picked through the blues to 10 pounds until it was 11 year old Harry’s turn. And wouldn’t you know after the drag started screaming he picked up the rod with a nice bass on the other side. He worked hard to land this 33 inch linesider (attached). The bass’ stomach contained a couple small winter flounder. These winter flounder are the young of the fish that spawned in the bay a few months ago. Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

May 17, 2015 ———————————————————————–

10:45 AM

Matt Perilli caught a keeper striper on bunker this morning fishing the mid-island surf. He reported holding with 5-6oz of lead.

John P. gave us a report from the surf last night… “Bluefish bite was incredible tonight in Holgate. 16 blues up to 18-lbs. I hope the Guppy Pencil Popper Lure order shows up soon. I’m running low haha. This is nuts!!!”

We saw some nice photos on Instagram. Alyse Droge had a monster bluefish with a caption, “Might be the biggest blue I’ve had on the surf!” Ryan Curtis had a surf photo of a blue too, “First harvest of the year in Jersey.” Kristi Reillo Cooper posted a photo of her son on our Facebook page, “One of 6!!! Epic, Crazy, Making up for last year.”

May 16, 2015 ———————————————————————–

7:45 PM

More reports off of the surf!!! One angler who we outfitted yesterday with a new surf rod and reel came back today and showed us a photo. He said, “Thanks for everything! I’m back for more. The blues took everything I had. Cleaned me out!”

A customer Scott and his daughter caught an fished the mid-island surf this afternoon. They caught this 18.85-lb striper that went for bunker.

Here is a photo of Mark Milici’s pending NJ State Record blueline tilefish that he weighed in last night.

Received: May 16, 2015 7:07 PM Subject: LBI Charters 5/15 & 5/16

It continues… The Best Bay Bluefishing Ever!!! Fished for an hour and a half Friday night, over 30 fish. Fished early Saturday morning, 15 fish in less than an hour. Had Audrey, Eric and young Rachael out mid morning and not so good. Only 3 fish and lost the same. Back at it this evening. Back to visual strikes fish jumping and 4 on at a time.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

3:00 PM

Greene (Mike Greene) of Lucky Stripes Fishing Charters and his buddy stopped by the shop this afternoon with a pair of quality bass, both over thirty. Mike weighed one in for the On the Water Striper Cup, 36.95-lbs. Mike said yesterday and today was good fishing. It has begun!

Joe from Shamong gave us heads up that he caught fish off of the mid-island surf this morning. He said that he lost a good one in the wash, but nailed shorts and blues at the top of the tide.

The phenomenal reports from offshore keep trickling in. Still not many boats in the water but those that have went scored. Perkins (Jim) and Flagpole (Jim) fished with Johnny-O and absolutely smoked em!. The story goes like this.. They got out to the Spencer about 6pm last night. There was lots life in the cold water about 10-12 miles short. They tied up to a pot in 69-70 degree water and got on the chunk. There were lots of tinker mackerel. Released a two blue shark and killed a 150-lb mako. At sunrise they got up on the troll and picked up four yellowfin tune and one mahi. They took a short ride to the Lindy and found the mother load in 63-65 degree water…Bluefin crashing skippies on top!!! They pulled out the popping rods and destroyed em going 17 for 18 on aggressive 40-50-lb class bluefin. Epic Jersey bluefin popping!

1:30 PM

Sorry we didn’t get a report up earlier. The shop was rocking. Words out that the fish are chewing! The bluefish are still around in great numbers and the striped bass fishing is getting better everyday.

Lenny gave us a repiort that he caught a couple fish off of the mid-island surf on bunker.

Tanek stopped by and reported saucing the bass and bluefish on big wood lures. He said the bite was on!

We are basically at the new moon phase for May (17th) and the next moon will be full June 2nd. Expect the year’s biggest striped bass now and for the next four weeks. If you want your chance at a trophy get on the water and stay on it!

~FishHead.Greg

May 15, 2015 ———————————————————————–

9:00 PM

The south end surf went off today. As reported earlier our bunker boat said there were blues pushing bait on the south end. This same story was reiterated by numerous customers in the shop today while scrabbling for tackle and fresh bait. There were both blues and striped bass in the mix.

Right at closing time Mark Milici of Doylestown, PA stopped in the shop to check weight on a tilefish. It turns out Mark’s 23-lb 4-oz blueline tilefish (grey tile) is a pending NJ State Record (23-lb 1-oz, Cheol Min Park, 2014) and possible an All Tackle IGFA Record (20-lb 8-oz, David Cohn, 2013). Mark reported having a great day fishing out at the Lindenkohl Canyon with his buddy aboard the Last Hooray. They had 40-lb class yellowfin on the troll and also were covered up in large skip jack for most of the day. Mark said that boats fishing the cold water were into lots of small bluefin tuna. They reported spending some time bottom fishing getting four golden tiles and eight bluelines, the largest being the one he brought to the shop. Mark said, “Thanks for the squid. The tilefish loved it!”

7:00 PM

Our bunker boat captain stopped in and delivered some fresh bunker this afternoon. He said this morning the bass had the bunker pushed right up on the beach. Finally what we have all waited for…. the spring bunker and bass bonanza!!! He reported that as the morning progressed they slid off into deeper water, 30-60′. He also said that the big blues were crashing bait on the south end off of the Red Tower (Beach Haven).

Dan D. of New Egypt stopped in the shop and weighed in a nice 38-lb 03-oz striper for the On The Water Magazine Striper Cup. He caught it on a green Tony Maja #4 bunker spoon trolling off of IBSP. They also caught a couple other bass too. Dan mentioned, “There wasn’t much bait around. Also on the way in we stopped in the Inlet and had some fun with the blues. They were crashing on top!”

Received: May 15, 2015 5:50 PM Subject: Laura Sportfishing 5/15

I had Ron and Paul out today. It was pretty slow on the troll but Ron got a nice 40lb striper on the snag and drop. I have some weekday evenings available for anyone trying to get out after work.

~ Capt. Mark Finelli Laura Sportfishing 856-341-6562

11:30 AM

Not sure if you say yesterdays post about the push of weakfish. The visual “eyes on” report was verified. The proof is in the pudding. Lee from Manahawkin stopped by with a 27″ 7-lb 4-oz weakfish. He caught it off of the surf on a bucktail.

The bluefish bite is still going strong. Some days are better than others. Instagramer ProDiver86 shared a photo of some blues with a caption “Slayed ’em Plugging in High Bar!”

Dan D. sent us a message that he caught a 47″ bass in the boat this morning spooning.

Received: May 14, 2015 10:34 PM Subject: Great White Passing Through

A 16 foot 3400 pound adult female Great White that has a transmitter tag passed LBI close inshore yesterday on her way to NY. Her name is Mary Lee and they have been tracking her for a longtime now. My guess is she is enjoying a daily feast of gator blues… Don’t wade out too far into the surf for that next cast!!! ~ Bernard J. Hyland, Capt, Mad Ludwig

Last Firday May 8th she stopped by the south end of LBI (who invited her to FishHead.Greg’s wedding) and then took a ride north. Then yesterday she was back in town not far from the shop. As of 5:42am this morning Mary Lee was right off of the Cape May Beaches. Anyone looking to view the “Shark Tracker” should download the Ocearch app on your smartphone.

May 14, 2015 ———————————————————————–

4:30 PM

The clams that came in earlier today went fast. Unfortunately we are sold out until tomorrow. We expect a delivery around mid-day.

11:00 AM – Live Eels & Surf Clams just arrived!

Still lots of great fishing here on LBI. The spring fishing kicked off with a bang and the historic bluefish bite continues; however, the other fisheries which are lurking in the shadows should not be forgotten. There are plenty of striped bass as well as weakfish and drum in our local waters. Yesterday we got word from a spearfisherman who report pods of schoolie bass and a massive push of weakfish!

Home Depot Rick was in the shop recently and reported lots of bluefish off of the mid-island surf. He said while targeting bass chunking he caught a 17″ fluke!

May 13, 2015 ———————————————————————–

10:30 AM

Hi Guys. Needlefish here. I came down on Thursday night in hopes to go fishing on my 21 foot sailfish but that did not happen since the lettering of my boat did not get finished up until that Wednesday. It was ok though I have my secondary Boat which is a 1986 Fisher. 15-1/2 foot bass boat that I renovated. I packed up my fishing gear and trolled around Surf City in the fog in the morning thinking the big blues were half way up the bay. No Luck so I packed up and went home for lunch, still itching to catch my first fish for the season. The real reason I went home was that my wife was due down by 12:00 . I off coerce called her to see were her TOA was. Thank God she told me that she was held up and won’t be down until about five. Hooray. I packed up and went down to Barnegat. I was a little nervous due to the dense fog and POS is a little small for that water but I have done it before. Thank God I did. The fishing was absolutely fabulous. I stayed away from the other boats and fished Myers’s Hole. I tied on a Buck tail Hopkins and through it out. BANG I got a hit. It was so fast that I did not expect it. The rest of the afternoon is history. I caught at least 10 Big blues. I release them all since I don’t eat Blue fish . What a great way to start the season. ~ Joseph Farrington

Received: May 12, 2015 10:16 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

The song remains the same with screaming drag slammer blues in the shallow water of Barnegat Bay. We found the fish Sunday morning in the fog. Big 8-15 lb blues were finning in 4-5’. It was so cool. After beating a few on my with my Mojo stick I busted out the fly rod. It was flats style fishing as I targeted fining fish with the fly rod. After a couple technical difficulties 😉 I hooked and landed a 10 pounder on the fly that I just tied the night before. This kind of action is every saltwater fly fishers dream. Here is a video of two of the blues I caught. Unfortunately I did not get to film the one of the fly, remember about those technical difficulties. Fluke season opens Friday, May 22nd. I am almost afraid to target them with so many BIG blues in the bay. It is that crazy. If you want to get in on the amazing run, call to book a trip. Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

Received: May 12, 2015 6:43 PM Subject: BHCFA Fishing Report

Spring like weather has arrived in Beach Haven, and the fish are cooperating. The boats of the Bach Haven Charter Fishing Association are making their mark already.

Late April and May have been marked by one of the hottest bluefish runs in recent history. Huge “yellow eyes” are racing around the bay and Little Egg Inlet as well as just off the shores of Long Beach Island. The spring’s striped bass run has slacked off a bit as the stripers have retreated in the face of the bluefish. There are small bass to be found and larger fish will be arriving shortly. In addition, there has been a decent run of black drum fish in the waters of Great Bay.

Captain Carl Sheppard recently had a group of ladies out for a Friday evening sunset cruise on the “Starfish” with cocktails and snacks enjoying a crisp spring evening a beautiful setting sun.

On Saturday, the Starfish had the George Sodden party out on a fishing trip to celebrate the upcoming nuptials of one of their group. The boat headed due south for the bluefish blitz near the inlet. In 55-degree water their lures were attached by hungry blues. For several hours they had non-stop action on 10-15 pound bluefish. They left those bluefish looking for stripers but could not locate any keepers. They ended up with a few pan-sized bluefish for dinner.

Captain Gary Dugan of the “Irish Jig” has been scoring on a few small bass along with some nice 25-pound black drum. Whenever he wants, he anchors up for torrid bluefish action in the Great Bay area.

Captain Jimmy Zavacky and the “Reel Determined” are in the water and ready to go. Captain Jimmy has plans for the big bluefish in the area as well as some solid striper action.
First mate Liane Lopez reports that the Miss Liane Sportfishing Charters and Captain Ray Lopez are in the water and ready for action. They too are looking forward to the bluefish and stripers while also thinking about the upcoming fluke season.

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

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

May 12, 2015 ———————————————————————–

1:00 PM

Captain Matt Curtis and George Penna headed out this morning aboard the Get Reel! and targeted bass trolling bunker spoons off the beach. They stopped in at about noon with a 38-lb bass. Their report was good! Three quality bass (released two) and consistent bluefish bite.

“The Blues were in town, mid island fishing was a blast beginning with Friday mid day at peak high tide & after. I hooked up with a few 30 inchers, missed a pile more in the surf with torn rigs just plain out of practice.
My buddy Doug did just as well with a few more to fillet! Monday however proved to be over as I couldn’t get a bite! Great seeing the gang at the FHQ. ~ Bobby G.

May 11, 2015 ———————————————————————–

2:30 PM

The Long Beach Island surf has been producing both bass and blues! Local Austin Pounds and Glen Warfield (owner of the Holiday Snack Bar) just gave us an epic beach report, “Phenomenal day! We were into Linesiders and Chompers! We bought some SP Minnows from Fisherman’s Headquarters and hit the surf. Within 15 minutes of casting, the tide changed and the fishing turned on. One after another we drilled the bass and blues. It was an all out blitz. Biggest bass was 27 inches and the biggest bluefish was about 14 pounds. Get some lures and hit the surf!” Yesterday, Kristi Reillo Cooper posted a photo on our Facebook page of her son on the surf with a big bluefish. She wrote, “His first big blue! Beach Haven surf on bunker”

Received: May 11, 2015 6:40 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Finally!!!

The historic Barnegat Bay bluefish fishery continued it’s tirade with not only quantity but quality 5-14lbs drag burning, teeth mashing, tackle busting brutes! If that wasn’t enough to get you excited about some light tackle action well than it looks like the big striped bass just crashed the party for those who were waiting for their arrival. It is mostly a bunker spoon troll thing going on the last few days but the season is finally out of low gear and things are coming together at warp speed!

I have this Wednesday May 16th 5-8pm and Friday May 18 available for private or Open charter- afternoon 3:30pm – 8:30pm Ocean trip , we will be targeting stripers first and finishing up with blue fish on the way in. All tackle, rods, and fish cleaning included – $150.00pp for Open boat.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: May 10, 2015 11:55 AM Subject: LBI Charters 5/9

Now people may be getting tired of reading about it but in my 40 years on LBI I’ve never seen bluefishing like this in the bay and inlet. Fish are big hungry and full of bunker. Had 7 year old AJ and 6 year old Pierce and their dad out Saturday am for a quick trip. Non-stop action and back in the dock in an hour and a half with over 15 fish landed. Next up Alyssa Mike and Stephen for an afternoon trip. Slow start at slack rise but once ride started moving it was nonstop with 22 fish landed and countless lost. If you want blues go now don’t wait! Also have some prime dates open after sea bass opener on May 27.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: May 10, 2015 8:20 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

We’re finally in after the long winter. We were booked for a 5hr Barnegat Bay Assault on the Bluefish by the Matt Windover Bachelor-Party Charter. Uncle Tom Barnett, Brother Michael Windover, Larry McShane, Matt, and future-father-in-law Steve Simms had an EPIC bite on Barnegat Bay bluefish. All of the blues weighed between 10-15lbs. At one point, we had 4, and 5 guys hooked up at the SAME TIME – it made for cockpit craziness. After non-stop action on topwater poppers, S&S Eel-Z’s, and Daiwa SP Minnows, we made an 1 1/2hr attempt at clamming for some striped ones. But after two rogue bluefish run-offs, it was back to the adrenaline pumping bluefish action. The guys did one of the best jobs at managing the blues – to have 5 hooked up at once on a 23ft boat with no tangles is something to be said. We wish Matt and his bride-to-be the best of luck on their wedding day and future. To sum up the fishing right now – it is AMAZING. Recently, there has been word of big bass caught – mostly a bunker spoon trolling thing right now, until the pods and water temps hit the right mark. Hopefully, the remnants of this tropical system don’t screw things as the bass bite has just begun.

I do have a few dates available in the next coming weeks – Friday afternoon 5/15 (230-730pm), 5/16-Sat morning, and 5/17-Sunday morning. As always, we always use the highest quality gear and everything is included all gear, tackle, fish-cleaning, and ice – you just come and FISH. If interested, book though the website or call.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction Sportfishing Charters 609.290.7709

May 9, 2015 ———————————————————————–

FISHING IS ON!!! The quality bass are here! Some beautiful linesiders hit our scales today! Check out our social media pages for photos… Instagram & Facebook

Ted Schmutz fished the mid-island surf this morning with bunker. On the incoming tide, he landed a 20 pound bass.

Two other bass came in too, both from the boat bunker spooning. Walter Michitsch caught a 47” 35-lb bass and David Steinmann caught a 44.5” 39-lb 4-oz bass.

The blues are still tearing up the bay, inlet and ocean. It’s been a month now full of bluefish mayhem of epic proportion. Hopefully everyone is enjoying! If not yet, now is the time to get in on the fun, Fish LBI!

Jeff Warford and Liz said the bluefish are snapping in the inlet! Jeff report, “The inlet is stacked up with blues! We fished all top water lures and had a blast. You could see much with the fog but everyone close by was hooked up.”

Dan D.reported, “I had a good bite today in the inlet on the incoming tide. Mainly on metal and bucktails. Lots of fun with great fighting fish!”

Shop regular Howard called and said the blues are podded up and feasting like piranhas in the bay. He said, “The bluefishing is great! I remember slamming them years ago but nothing like this. It has been consistent big fish trip after trip. My son and I are having a blast. Be careful with ‘em though, I got a treble hook in the hand the other day. It wasn’t fun.”

Shauna and Ben got into them (up to 16-lbs) mid-island. Mike C. and Mateo C. got ‘em up to 12-lbs hit.

For the offshore anglers… the picture perfect eddy that spun off the stream (Toms to Spencer) has offered plentiful pelagics. We heard through the grapevine that some boats filled up on yellowfin in no time flat. Some boats are getting into some great bluefin fishing. There aren’t many boats in the water but those who have fished had stella results. Gear up and get on it!

~FishHead.Greg

May 7, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: May 7, 2015 8:25 PM Subject: Open Boat Blues Sat, Sun, Mon

The big gator bluefish are still terrorizing Barnegat Bay from Barnegat to Toms River. The fish range from 5 to 15 pounds. We are casting topwater lures like poppers and jerkbaits to get the most exciting hits. Most of the action is in 5 to 8 feet of water on the west side of the bay. Some of the most explosive surface action you have ever seen. Every day I wonder… “how much longer can they stay?” and so far the answer has been at least one more day.

Sailing Open Boat Trips Sat, Sun, and Mon, May 9, 10, and 11. $150 person, 3 people max. Two trips a day: 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM and Noon to 5PM (except Sunday is Mothers Day so only the morning trip that day). I haven’t heard of any big stripers on bunker spoons yet, and I personally haven’t tried, frankly, because this epic bluefish bite has been too good to pass up. I am going to pack the bunker spoon arsenal on board for this stretch in case we want to try a few hours of that. I’ll leave it up to the charter group each day, if it’s a nice ocean, we can try it. The water temp is right and the calendar says it’s time.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

May 6, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: May 6, 2015 10:17 PM Subject: Lighthouse Sportfishing Report

I want to emphasize how historic the Barnegat Bay bluefish bite is. Over my 35-years on the bay and I have never seen it like this. We have not had fall bluefish runs as good in a decade or possibly two-decades. Here is a short video of Debbie M on the Debbie M catching a bay monster, hmmm maybe I should start a TV show with that name J. Debbie M Bluefishing… www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xp7hRMv2oM&feature=youtu.be

Still have days open if you want to experience what may be once in lifetime bluefishing trip.

Extremely screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

Received: May 6, 2015 3:54 PM Subject: New State Record Tautog

Frank LaMorte of Mount Laurel recently reeled in the new state record Tautog. The fish weighed 25 pounds, 5.92 ounces, eclipsing the 1998 record by 5.92 ounces. The fish measured 33″ in length and had a girth of 23″.

For more information, including a photo of the new record fish, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2015/rectautog15.htm on the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife web site.

~ NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife

May 5, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: May 5, 2015 9:52 PM Subject: Open Boat Barnegat Bay Gator Blues Thursday Afternoon

Clobbered the big bluefish again today on the west side of Barnegat Bay. Big blues, 7 to 15-pounds are crushing our top water lures. Three to four fish at a time are visually competing for the lures on any given cast. Using 10-pound spinning gear. Two weeks momentum already and still going strong.

Sailing Open Boat or charter for these fish Thursday, May 7, 1 PM to 6 PM. $130 person, 3 people max. Everything provided. Call to reserve a spot.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

5:45 PM

Todd Avery just stopped back in the shop after his fishing session at the Inlet. He caught a bunch of bluefish. His biggest was 35-3/4″ a 15-pounders. All on SP Minnows and Ava jigs between 2:30 and 3:00 pm.

2:00 PM

As everyone knows the bluefish are here and have been for sometime. There are other species here too… striped bass, drum, weakfish and fluke. Trying to target them is a different story. Best of luck getting through the bluefish! At the right times fish slow and low and you’ll find ’em.

For those who did not get the news, it’s on! As per everyone (employee and customers) getting wet, “They are everywhere!” The epic yellow eye demon bluefish bonanza continues and they have us surrounded, crashing everything in our local waters. It has been a solid two weeks plus and there’s no telling how long it will go.

The bay, the surf, the inlet, the north end, the south end and everywhere in between. It has been great and the fun continues. Non-stop gators!

Here is a couple name drops!

Kristi Reillo Cooper had big bluefish from the mid-island surf.

Last night, Austin Pounds was into some sizable bluefish! He caught ’em up to 42 inches that pulled 20-lbs on the Boga Grip scale.

Yesterday, Joe from Shamong stopped in the shop with his son Clay and scooped us some metal. Wait a second, shouldn’t he be in school??? The father and son enjoyed the beautiful day on the water roping bluefish. They reported back a couple hours later. “Unreal, We beat ’em up.”

We saw some photos posted by John Ny with Megan Lewis and Eric Reed. They smashed the bluefish in the bay! They caught about 60 between ’em. “Pure insanity!”

Store staffer Blake enjoyed his day off yesterday hammering the devils. Another wild consecutive day blasting blues off the surf!

~ FishHead.Greg

12:00 Noon

The New Jersey recreational striped bass regulations in all state waters are as follows: One fish 28″ to less than 43″ AND one fish 43″ or greater.

The Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP) has changed. The Striped Bass Bonus Program is now closed and will remain closed until September 1, 2015. New permits will be automatically issued through the mail prior to that date. On September 1, 2015, the new Striped Bass Bonus Program regulations will be: One fish 24″ to less than 28″. Please note that the order of fish harvested does not matter. The Bonus fish can be the 1st, 2nd or 3rd fish.

Please continue to check the Division’s website for notice of fishing regulation changes. The following is the official report from NJDEP – Bureau of Marine Fisheries…

Received: May 5, 2015 8:44 AM Subject: Striped Bass Regulation Changes

New regulations are in effect for striped bass: one fish 28″ to less than 43″ AND one fish 43″ or greater. The Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP) closed on May 1 and will remain closed until September 1, 2015. When it reopens on September 1, the SBBP regulations will be one fish 24″ to less than 28″. The order of fish harvested does not matter.

In addition, no person may take, attempt to take, or have in possession any striped bass from the following closed waters:
January 1 – February 28: All waters closed except the Atlantic Ocean from zero to three miles offshore.
April 1 – May 31: Delaware River and Bay and their tributaries closed from the upstream side of the Calhoun Street Bridge downstream to and including the Salem River and its tributaries.

Please see the Marine Digest for more information at www.njfishandwildlife.com/digmar15.htm.
SBBP information is available at www.njfishandwildlife.com/bonusbas.htm.

The striped bass regulatory changes are the result of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Striped Bass Management Board’s requirement implementing a 25% harvest reduction from 2013 levels for 2015 recreational and commercial fisheries. After three public hearings and meetings with NJ’s Striped Bass Advisory Committee and Marine Fisheries Council, the Council considered all input and decided on the above striped bass regulations for 2015.

For more information, please contact Heather Corbett of the Bureau of Marine Fisheries at 609-748-2020.

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

“The best run I’ve seen in years. Bluefish to 10-pounds are from Barnegat Inlet down to Holgate, in the front and back, and they’re hitting anything and everything,” reported Steve from Fisherman’s Headquarters. The last two hours of the outgoing are prime for the inlet and island beaches, with the first couple of the incoming the most productive in the mid-island bay area. White perch were gone, re-appeared earlier in the week now seem to have vanished again from the tidal creeks and lagoons in Beach Haven West. The winter flounder fishery is, for all intents and purposes done, but with this week’s forecast of 70 to 80 degree temperatures, the crabs should be out and on the scramble for anything edible.

Received: Tuesday, May 05, 2015 11:13 AM Subject: Big Blues

Fished south jetty yesterday afternoon after stopping in “Fish Heads” for some gear. Nailed big blues non-stop for about two hours. If you want big bluefish from the beach or jetty, now is the time. Epic fishing indeed!

~ Jim Gardner, Lansdale PA

May 4, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: May 4, 2015 6:46 PM Subject: 32″ Striped Bass in Ship Bottom

Stephen Mohl and son Erich Mohl from West Chester, PA stopped by the shop to get bunker and clams and fished the rising tide this morning in Ship Bottom. Just about peak of high tide at around 10 am, caught a 32” striped bass – was the only fish or bite we had all day, but a nice one.

~ Steve M

Received: May 4, 2015 9:21 AM Subject: 5/2/15 “Reel Chaos” Fishing Report

Saturday we had a 4-hour bay trip with a dad and his 3 sons. What is a better day then spending time with your children on the water catching fish on the “Reel Chaos”.

Left dock at around 8am and didn’t have to go to far before we were marking fish. We were right in a bluefish blitz. Using small top water poppers we were catching bluefish in the 5 to 10 pound range. It was a blast. Most of our bigger fish were caught away from the fleet just south of Forked River. After we were done with the bluefish we went on the troll for some bass. After trolling around for a while we had two knock downs that turned out to be two small striped bass. It was a great time by all.

Bass are coming! Book now!

~ Capt. Tom Cormann Reel Chaos Charters 201.788.3223

May 3, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: May 3, 2015 5:57 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Historic Blue Fish Action!

Bluefish in the 5-15lbs range continue to be the main event in Barnegat Bay. Schools so thick they are visibly wrinkling the waters surface with their fins as far as the eye can see. In all my years fishing on the Barnegat Bay I have never witnessed such action or presents of any species!

How long will these fish stay depends on food source and water temps. Fishing is never a “sure thing or guarantee” but the last week or so must be about as good as it gets! I have always made an effort to back my fishing reports with photos but the action has been so torrid that taking pictures has been extremely difficult due to the extreme action, leaving little time to grab my camera.

Today, Sunday the action hit a new level when an angler aboard decided to experiment retrieving just a bare/plain hook “just to see”. Well it didn’t take more than a few cranks on the reel handle to find out “if it would work” within minutes everyone on board had to confirm for them selves that they too could catch these voracious yellow eyed brutes on just a plain hook!

Open boat and private charters will continue to be available for those who want to get in on this crazy action. Plus, I will be adding 3-hr evening trips 5-8pm Monday thru Thursday [$75.00 pp] and Fridays and Sundays will be available a.m. and p.m.

Remember to join us on Face Book to view photos and hopefully “like us” and “share” us

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: May 3, 2015 5:41 PM Subject: Report

Fished Barnegat Inlet this afternoon the bluefish bite was epic! Monster bluefish to 18-lbs! Saw one fish caught 44-inches that was over 20-lbs! Must have been a hundred people with hundreds of fish caught, hot spot looked to be maybe 75-yards off the concrete walkway. Stripped reels, broken rods were everywhere! Metal seemed to work best, but they were hitting everything! What a blast. Tight lines.

~ Brian Dalton

Received: May 3, 2015 4:50 PM Subject: Last few days

As others have said blue fishing is great all over. Thursday evening I fished mid-island surf with 8 blues in 90 min in the 5-8 lb range, all on bunker . Friday I tried same spot but there was a green algae slime all along the beachfront. No blues but 4 short stripers on bunker. They were all 15-17 in. At dusk headed to the fishing pier in ship bottom near the boat ramp. The pier was packed and I fished from the beach with 3 blues up to 9 lbs. Saturday off the south jetty the bite was unbelievable. Many rods were hooked all the time from when I got there at 11 until I left at 1:30 with the outgoing tide A hook up on virtually every cast on metal or plugs. People left when they got tired, maxed out, or ran out of rigs. Many broken lines. Fish ranged from 6-12 lbs. Nonstop action. Hope we have a great striper season

~ Mike Zakutansky

Received: May 3, 2015 4:49 PM Subject: Old Barney Charters 5/2-5/3 Big Blues

First time out this year and got in on the fantastic bluefish action Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Big blues in inlet providing tons of fun for the kids and wife. We are beginning trips 5/8 with blues and stripers, and will run weekends til school’s out in June, then we will run 7 days a week. Check out some of the videos on the website. Awesome opening to the season!

~ Capt. Kevin Schmidt Old Barney Charters 267-918-1746

12:00 Noon

The bluefish bite continues! Marcos Ramirez caught this 12 pound 13 ounce bluefish this morning on metal. He caught about six fish and said there are a lot of blues cruising the inlet.

FYI. Photo posted to our Facebook page. Can link from there

Received: May 3, 2015 8:58 AM Subject: It’s Finally Time To Fish!

After what seemed like one of the longest winters in memory, things are finally looking a little better around here. Leaves are sprouting and flowers are blooming; it’s time to fish!

Inshore, bluefish are thick and the main biomass of stripers won’t be too far behind. We have dates left in late May targeting these.

On the offshore scene things are looking great. Both bluefin and yellowfin tuna have been caught recently by local boats fishing a 10+ degree temperature break. We start our offshore trips the first week of June.

Reservations are off to a great start so if you’re going to book a trip, don’t delay. Weekends are hard to come by well into July.

Here are two of the more popular trips we offer in addition to spring striper trips…

– Threshers Along the Beach! (June)
“Near-Shore” Sharking targeting Thresher sharks has quickly become one of our most popular trips in June. These hard fighting sharks represent both a challenge for all ages and an introduction to big-game fishing for our younger anglers.

– Overnight Canyon Adventures!
Early season in the canyons can often bring the best action of the year! Bluefin tuna, Yellowfin tuna, Mako sharks, Blue Sharks, Bigeye Tuna, Swordfish, and more!

In June and July our standard overnight trip combines two of my favorite targets: Sharks and Tuna! This year our standard “early season overnighter” will be up to 30 hours in length. Don’t worry, if your arms are too tired from the action we’ll bring you in early!

Keep in mind it’s not everything Stripers, Fluking, Bluefins, etc… so if you don’t see what you’re looking for give me a call or shoot over an email; if we don’t have a trip that works we’ll customize for your specific needs.

Please contact me for more information.

~ Capt. Stew Hitchner Pez Machine Sportfishing 609.287.5136

May 2, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: May 2, 2015 6:48 PM Subject: LBI Charters 5/2

Sore arms on the “Kev n Ash” today. Plain and simple best bluefishing I’ve seen in 5-plus years. Big, mean, and hungry. All you want and then some. Visual strikes 15 to 20 fish following the fish that is hooked and all within a quarter mile of the dock. We will target blues and stripers until May 27.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

Received: May 2, 2015 12:34 PM Subject: Still Here….Big Bluefish in Barnegat Bay on Topwaters

This morning (Sat) was the best bluefish bite I have ever seen. 7 to 12-pound fish, actually one pushed 13-1/2 on the Boga Grip scale. They were destroying our surface lures for 5-hours! For every big bluefish that was hooked there were two or three more visually attacking the same lure. All in 5 to 7 feet of water on the west side of Barnegat Bay. Casting topwater lures on 10-pound spinning tackle. This bite is going on two weeks strong now. Insane fishing.

YouTube link from this morning’s video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rx82Oq1Q8sQ&feature=youtu.be

Sailing Open Boat tomorrow, Sunday, May 3, I have all three spots open, and Monday, May 4, I have one spot open. 5AM to 10 AM each day. $150 per person. 3 people max.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

4:00 PM

Ryan Dellane reported just minutes ago that bluefish are thick at the Barnegat Inlet area again this afternoon. The blitz is on. Ryan Dellane also reported, “Absolute mayhem last night! I had an insane night of slaying bluefish on plugs. Caught over 30 bluefish up to 15 pounds in the bay last night. I got a bunch for shark bait and am looking forward to the shark season kicking off soon”.

Instagramer Swagmattic (Matt S.) tagged us in a photo last night with the caption, “Gator bluefish in the bay, LBI”.

10:00 AM

Yesterday afternoon, Bluefish to 8-lbs were at the mid-island bayside. Tom White and Steve Wolfschmidt both caught fish after fish.

Smaller Black Drum around 10-lbs are in local bayside waters and larger Black Drum to 30-lbs at Graveling Point. Clam baits have been working effectively for these.

Bluefish were also along the front-beach. We’re surrounded by Bluefish.

May 1, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: May 1, 2015 10:16 PM Subject: Report

4 shorts on clam and bunker on the North End, around the high tide. Tons of blues.

~ DRA
April 30, 2015 ———————————————————————–

9:00 PM

The blue-dogs are still here in full force. We had a customer come in late morning with a reel in shambles. It was absolutely destroyed from blitzing bluefish mayhem. After stepping up his game and purchasing an Penn SSV he went back and strong armed them.

Cody Schmutz posted a photo this afternoon of some good size bluefish in the sand. One had a metal in its mouth. His father stopped in the shop in the evening and said, “My son put a whipping on ’em!”

With the cranking northeast blow, I hit the beach for the last couple hours of light. Sure enough… lots of white water, birds frisky and charged up bluefish on a mission. They were feasting on top water and metal. The conditions were a bit challenging but so much fun. I’m looking forward to the next few days with an onshore flow into Saturday.

~ FishHead.Greg
Received: Apr 30, 2015 6:55 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – 1 spot left for Friday 330pm-830pm

Reel Fantasea has 1 spot left for Friday afternoon 3:30pm-8:30pm Light tackle 5-hr Back bay/inlet targeting Bluefish and stripers – $120.00pp.
2 spots available for Sunday 5:30am – 10:30am for the same.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: Apr 30, 2015 1:01 AM Subject: Open Boat Gator Blues Friday Afternoon, Sun and Mon Mornings

The Hi-Flier is going to chase the big bluefish that have been tearing up Barnegat Bay. After a break in the action Monday, we had 5 fish in 4 hours, they resurfaced further north in the bay. Same size, 7 to 12-pounders, and good numbers for the last two days. We will be armed with poppers and combing the bay until we get into them. Doesn’t get much better on 10-pound spinning tackle in 5-feet of water throwing surface lures.

Sailing Open Boat Friday afternoon, May 1, 1PM to 6 PM, and also Sunday and Monday mornings, May 3 and 4, 5 AM to 10 AM. $150 per person. 3 people max. Last weekend we ran this same trip at $130 per person as the fish were only 3 miles from my marina. The last few days we’ve been running 10 to 11-miles each way so I am anticipating the extra fuel burn.

Call to reserve a spot.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

April 29, 2015 ———————————————————————–

4:45 PM

Today at around noon, Dave Cannon was fishing 16th in Street Ship Bottom and hooked 2 schoolie sized striped bass using clam for bait.

Just got word from some ladies walking the surf line combing for shells in Ship Bottom who saw a bluefish of about 6-pounds beach itself while chasing bait. There’s bait and blues in the Ship Bottom surf and no one was around to hook these bluefish on tackle.

April 28, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:00 PM

At the South-end of Long Beach Island, Little Egg Inlet is a very important inlet and getting it dredged, properly marked with buoys and maintained is vital to the areas boating community. We’ve received a bunch of inquiries asking about the poor navigation/access situation with Little Egg Inlet. Meetings were held and there’s more meetings to come. Still no answer or action. The information we have heard and dug up has been mixed. We are not the authority, so we have refrained from posting information.

Unfortunately the South-end inlet isn’t the only issue. Up on the North-end, the main thoroughfare (Oyster Creek Channel) that leads to Barnegat Inlet isn’t in great shape. Double Creek Channel was shut down leaving Oyster Creek as the only link from southern Barnegat Bay to the Barnegat Inlet. Oyster Creek was recently dredged so large equipment could easily navigate for the North Jetty repair. Since then it is in need of more maintenance at the western entrance near buoy 40.

Jay Mann long time local, fisherman, blogger and editor from the Sand Paper wrote a few days ago on his blog… “UPDATE ON 40 BUOY AT OYSTER CREEK: It’s gonna be a real tough boating summer in that part of Barnegat Bay, per the USCG, whose Aids to Navigation vessel was thoroughly grounded just trying to get in there. It never made it in. The USCG is running ongoing mariner broadcasts/warnings about the shoaling near buoy 40. The Army Corps is fully aware, and dredging might be in the offing thereabouts. I believe that is a federally recognized waterway.”

Still on the dredging topic… Equipment is on the beach up the street from the shop in Ship Bottm. The gear was recently moved in and the progress is under way for another beach replenishment on Long Beach Island. Ship Bottom is first and the work is scheduled to take all of May and hopefully not many days into June before moving south into Long Beach Township.

As far as a fishing report goes… Here’s an update. We got a report that the inlet was slow this morning. Store staffer Blake said he had a blast fishing top water lures on the bay. Yesterday, Ryan Dellane hit the surf and caught a couple linesiders. Ryan was plugging and reported, “X-Rap plugs are crushing it!” The bunker colored Rapala is what they wanted.

The Simply Bassing Spring Striped Bass surf fishing tournament is a few days away! Sign up now. Fishing begins May 2nd.

~ FishHead.Greg

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…

“The beaches at Harvey Cedars and Loveladies are loaded with blues to 8-pounds and they’re killing the school bus pattern SP Minnow, reported Steve from Fisherman’s Headquarters. Schoolie stripers are rife around the Causeway Bridge, and while most are nailing bloodworms there are a few being caught with fresh clam. Black drum are being beaten at Holgate and at Graveling Point in Great Bay, and earlier in the week reports received of a few weakfish being caught at the mouth of Oyster Creek. The white hot Mill Creek white perch action has fizzled out.”

Received: Apr 28, 2015 6:53 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters Report and Open Boat

Last week started with a bang but unfortunately an under estimation of weekend boat traffic and too late [7am] departure resulted in ending the week with a fizzle.

What only could be described as Epic Light Tackle Slammer Bluefish action which began last week with fish in the 5-12lbs range. We also continued to score schoolie stripers which have spiced our catches as well.

Sunday’s late arrival caused us to move around the bay/inlet for a meager catch of bluefish while chunking bunker.

The next open will be Friday 5:30am – 10:30am, 3:30pm-8:30pm and Sunday 5:30am -10:30am. We will be targeting stripers, blues and hoping to encounter big spring tide runner weakfish. All bait, tackle, rods and fish cleaning included – $120.00pp

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

April 27, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 27, 2015 7:34 AM Subject: LBI Charters Weekend Update

Fished for fun for a couple hours Saturday and Sunday. Ended with 4 keeper blackfish Saturday and 3 on Sunday with a dozen or so shorts each day. Too bad season closes this week as they are just starting to feed. Chasing bass and blues til sea bass opens May 27.

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856.264.0318

April 26, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:00 PM

As most know the bluefish invaded and have us surrounded! The gators showed up in full force early week and have continued through this weekend. The yellow-eyes are everywhere; bay, inlet and surf. Anglers are having a blast catching on lures and bait.

Store staffer Max hit the open bay this morning and reported slamming ’em every cast! “The bay is loaded with gators!”

Store staffer Oakley got into the blue late morning in the Inlet. He said the outgoing seemed to be the best.

Late morning, Andrew Parshall and son of Pine Beach stopped in the shop and picked up fresh bunker and clams. They headed out late morning and fished the bayside on the mainland. They reported hammering the blues on bunker chunks, “Everyone along the bank was into ’em!”

Another surf report said, “They are in the surf. I got one bass and a number of blues plugging the suds!”

Just a heads up on our bait stock. We sold out of bunker and clams. We expect fresh bunker sometime in the morning. Some whole bay clam are still in stock.

Store is closing for the day and I’m going fishing… See you out there!

~ FishHead Greg

Received: Apr 26, 2015 5:19 PM Subject: Laura Sportfishing

Had our first charter of the season today caught 8 keeper blackfish up to six pounds and about 30 shorts. Not bad for one stop we had to be back early. Think summer!

~ Capt. Mark Finelli Laura Sportfishing 856-341-6562

Received: Apr 26, 2015 4:15 PM Subject: Insane!! BIG BLUES on Surface Lures in the Bay

Hit them again this morning (Sunday) on the west side of Barnegat Bay. 7 to 12-pound gator bluefish. Teeth gnashing, head shaking, violent surface attacks on our surface lures. You see every hit. Multiple fish competing for your lure all the way to the boat. Sometimes getting you wet from the splash! Most of the morning two or three of our three anglers were all hooked up at the same time.

Nick DeGennaro had a big gator blue that all at once christened his new Van Staal, Lamiglass rod, and Verterbrae Lure, a new quadruple jointed darter .

Jude Feld of Neptune had his biggest fish ever, a slammer blue on a 10-pound spinning outfit.

Here is some video of this morning’s mayhem: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyOsW0DpLCU&feature=youtu.be

Still room for two more anglers tomorrow (Mon, Apr 27). Leaving at 4:30 AM returning at 9:30 AM.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: Apr 26, 2015 9:50 AM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Charters

The blues have invaded our local bays, but we’re still waiting for the congregation of trophy class striped bass to arrive off our beaches. Or boat should be in the water early this week (4/27-5/2), and will be looking to get out this upcoming weekend targeting blues and bass in the back. I have the weekend of May 9/10 booked, but have some openings for the next few weekends in May/June.

Also, NEW for this year until school ends – I will be running Friday afternoon trips starting at 2:30pm and running to 7:30pm. Once the school year ends (June 19th), I will be running trips 7-days a week until the start of the school (Sept).

We offer very competitive rates and as always we provide the highest quality tackle (Penn, St. Croix, Quantum, etc), ice, bait/gulp, etc. Check out our website for details: www.reelreactioncharters.com. We have totally redesigned the website for 2015 and as always provide up-to-date fishing reports. If interested in booking a trip, either book through the website (goes directly to phone) or give me a call 609-290-7709.

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

April 25, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 25, 2015 1:38 PM Subject: Big Blues!!

The Hi Flier is in the water and ready to fish. I usually target May 1 as my start date but I was able to get in a little early this season. Some good size bluefish are on the West-side of Barnegat Bay. Two anglers were out this morning to try, and Holy Smokes were the fish they big! The biggest I have ever encountered in the bay. The Bluefish ranged from 5 to 10-pounds… and that’s with no belly at all, which is the common body shape for these early season fish. They were crushing our poppers on the surface and then screaming line off our 10 pound spinning outfits. They have been there for at least 4 or 5 days now and you never know how long they will stay.

I will be running Charter or Open Boat the next two days for these fish. Sun, April 26 and Mon, April 27, 5:30 AM to 10:30 AM. $130 person, 3 people max. We will be targeting these big blues on light tackle. The best action is early and then it slows up. The action is worth the price of admission for the time it is on. This are mostly visual hookups. You see multiple fish competing and crashing your lure right at the boat.

The Hi-Flier website was upgraded during the off-season. If you would like to check it out please visit… www.hiflier.com

Hi-Flier charter rates increased this season. This is the first increase since 2007 and I was not able to hold off any longer.

CURRENT HI-FLIER RATES

5-hour Bay Vessel Charter Trip $450
6-hour Bay/Ocean Vessel Charter Trip $500
8-hour Vessel Charter Trip $700
6-hour Open Boat Trip $165 per person (When available)

Looking forward to seeing everyone on board this season.

~ Capt. Dave DeGennaro Hi Flier Sportfishing 732.330.5674

Received: Apr 25, 2015 8:21 AM Subject: Absolute bluefish inahilation! Topped off with some stripers!

Friday afternoon saw some of the best light tackle action for big bluefish that I have ever seen! All afternoon we were doubled, tripled and quaded up with drag burning big healthy bluefish while employing artificial baits, all strikes were very visible as multiple bluefish competed on almost every cast!

From there we ended the day tripling up on our first drift with striped bass and missing a few more on the next consecutive drifts!

Right now is the time for some of the best light tackle action found anywhere! One (1) more angler’s spot remains open for tomorrow’s (Sunday April 26th) 5-hr bay/inlet 7am -12pm trip. Cost is $120.00 pp, all bait and tackle and fish cleaning is is included. Call only to reserve as I won’t be near a computer.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

7:00 AM

Rick Zane stopped in the shop Friday afternoon. While here he reported lots of bass down his way in Tuckerton. He said, “The weekends are crazy busy, but on the week days catching has been fun and there’s room to stretch out.”

Here’s report from Ryan Dellane… “Quick report for you. I headed out straight from work and had a stellar evening with some friends. We slammed the bluefish for 4 hours straight. All of the fish ranged 6-12 pounds and wanted plugs over metal. We all had a blast ! The girls were into bluefish for their first time. It sure was fun. This spring is off to a great start with both bass and blues. You got’ta be willing to put the time in and find the fish. Its the most rewarding part of the game. Get out there!”

Sean Jackson reported catching a handful of blues Friday afternoon/evening. He mentioned another anglers fishing close by had a quality bass.

Simply Bassing kicks off next Saturday May 2nd, registration is underway. Make sure you ask to join the Fisherman’s Headquarters Side-Bet for an extra $10.

~ FishHead Greg

April 24, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:30 PM

Yes, In Stock…

– Fresh Bunker
– Whole Surf Clams
– Bloodworms
– Sandworms

April 23, 2015 ———————————————————————–

8:00 PM

Nolan Longstreet and his buddy Z-Man of Hamilton stopped in the shop as we were closing up. They raved on a two hour Inlet bite this evening. “Only a couple guys out on the jetty but they were all into ’em casting lures! We got over 20 of them on metal (Diamond Jig w/ Green Tail).”

~ FishHead Greg

5:00 PM

Late in the day yesterday, Ryan Dellane picked up some live bloodworms. His report, “Finally into some striped bass last night!” Ryan reported fishing the bay catching all shorts, but an angler close by caught a 33″ bass.

~ FishHead Greg

April 22, 2015 ———————————————————————–

6:00 PM

Andy Wurst from the Barnegat Animal Clinic stopped in the shop today to pick up some offshore gear. While here he gave us heads up that he recently made a trek to the edge. They had a great trip going five for five on bluefin tuna up to 100-lbs and one for one on yellowfin tuna about 35-40-lbs. All on the troll.

The bluefish are here! Earlier today Gary Naylor stopped in and reported catching one off of the mid-island surf. This afternoon, Captain Steve Purul of Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters headed out on the bay for a short session. He reported an hour filled with topwater bluefish fun! Steve said they were all health fat yellow-eyes in the 5-8lb range. Any one looking to hop on a boat give Steve a call 609-290-1217. See Capt. Steve’s previous reports below.

~ FishHead Greg

Andy Wurst also has the following boat for sale…

1989 Blackfin 32’ Combi: 11’11” beam and 2’8” draft. Second owner since April 1999.

ENGINE & PARTICULARS:
– Repowered with Cummins DR610 RX 370hp 6BTA reconditioned diesel motors October 2006. Hours: ~1575
– New transmissions, shafts, struts and props in October 2006.
– Jabsco oil change pump system
– Rebuilt port transmission and new drive plate, serviced both engines after coolers and cooling systems. Motors cleaned and re-painted January 2015.
– Avg fuel burn ~ 1 nm/gallon, Cruising ~22 kts at 2200 rpm.
– Westerbeke 5kw generator 5/2000. Hours: 460
– 330 gallon ¼” custom aluminum fuel tank 11/2010
– SSI “tuna coffin” cooler. 35+ gallon live well. Good Automatic Windlass w/ 600’ marked line, chain and Kingston quickset anchor.
SAFETY:
– Switlik 6 man life raft repacked in 5/2014.
– EPIRB
– Throwable life ring and PFDs
ELECTRONICS:
– Raymarine E120, E80 (in tower), DSM 300, 1kw transducer
– Icom 502 VHF radio, Simrad 55 VHF radio (in tower)
– Raytheon R20XX raster scan radar (independent)
– Simrad AP22 autopilot
– Furuno GP-1850DF (GPS and FF)
– Raytheon Nav 398 GPS/loran
– Sitex 525 ADF (radio direction finder)
– Battery charger
– Remote spotlight
– AM/FM radio/CD
GEAR:
Fighting chair and custom rod holder.

Very clean, well maintained, fishing machine, priced to sell; $85,000. Call Andy 609-713-6791.

Received: Apr 22, 2015 5:50 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Reels singing the blues!!

I just got back to the dock from a quick little recon trip and we had solid rod bending , reel screaming action today with big slammer blues in the 5-8lbs range today ! These were not your spring weary racer bluefish but healthy feisty powerful slammers!!

We are catching these brutes in the shallows which makes for awesome visual strikes and powerful “heading to the horizon” runs which is a light tackle enthusiast dream!

I have 2 spots available for this Friday evening 4-8 pm $100.00.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

Received: Apr 22, 2015 6:53 AM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Open Boat Friday

Last week found the action a little slower than expected with 7 Striped Bass on one trip and 2 Striped Bass on another trip. But things continue to progress as the back bay’s water temps continue to claw their way out of the polar zone with the milder weather.

The first weakfish, bluefish and more striped bass have started to show in better numbers the last couple of days and should only get better from here. The first snag and drop action has been rumored as well!

We be running another Friday afternoon special open boat 4-8 with light tackle for all the above , $100.00 pp all bait, tackle, rods… included. Come on and join in, meet new fishing enthusiasts, and have some fun. 3 spots available.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

April 21, 2015 ———————————————————————–

This week’s Fisherman’s Headquarters Fishing Report in the Fisherman Magazine…
“There has been an acceleration of Striped Bass action along the island sands, and although it’s all about schoolies right now, the bigger fish should show any day. Clams and bunker chunks are enticing the linesiders, and it was a bivalve beat for the first black drum of the season. Bayside it’s a bloodworm and plug game for the multitude of prowling shorts. The south end of the island is surrendering bloodworm-crazed winter flounder to 16 inches, and the Mill Creek white perch finally showed in force. The spineys are waxing grass shrimp, bloodworms and one inch twister grubs on a tiny jig head.”

9:00 PM

The early season spots are consistent and other areas are picking up.

The mid-island bayside has produced stripers both during the day and at night.

This evening Terry and Sal Monachello of Manahawkin enjoyed the sunset fishing the bayside. They released one short bass that went for a bloodworm.

Last night Austin Pounds reported, “Lots of bait.” He caught a 29″ striper.

~ FishHead Greg

April 20, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 20, 2015 9:51 PM Subject: Fishing Report

Finally finished my video…
2014 Fishing Highlights of Paul Haertel
… hope you enjoy it.

~ Paul Haertel

Paul is truly a “Man for All Seasons” when it comes to fishing. Plus, Paul finds so much time to work for and promote the Jersey Coast Anglers Association and the Berkeley Striper Club. (He is most likely doing even more that we don’t know about) Fisherman’s Headquarters congratulates Paul on a year well done and wish him continued success in the future.

~FishHead.Stan

1:00 PM

Yesterday, Lenny stopped in the shop and purchase a chunking rod for the spring run. While here he showed us a photo of a nice drum he caught the previous night. Lenny said the bass were chewing too.

We also had weekend reports from a Beach Haven West residents that said the perch bite was good.

Any day, if not already, we’ll have some weakfish and bluefish in our waters.

FYI…
The 14th Annual “Simply Bassing” Spring time striped bass surf fishing tournament is May 2 – June 27th.
Registration just started.
When signing up ask to join the Fisherman’s Headquarters Striper Side-Bet.
The additional $10 purchase puts you in the game for more prizes.

~ FishHead Greg

April 19, 2015 ———————————————————————–

What a SWEET day yesterday was! You could not ask for a better Saturday in April. Lots of anglers dusting off the gear and getting their line wet. We received a few reports today…

John Mendes posted had a nice Winter Flounder that he caught in the boat fishing the bay.

Jean Deery Schaum released a Striped Bass that she caught while fishing the bayside of Long Beach Island.

Store staffer Rob Vallone went fishing yesterday. He reported back, “I went 3 for 3 off the surf. All bass were in the 25-27” range. Incoming tide. On SANDWORMS!!!

~ FishHead Greg

Received: Apr 19, 2015 11:06 PM Subject: Fishing report

Went out Saturday evening on the Bayside had a little bit of action on clams no hook up. Then hit the surf and hooked into to something that felt real nice fought it for about 5 minutes then lost it in the wash due to no light to see what I was doing but plenty of fish out there. It was beginning of out going tide. It’s time to be out there!!!

~ Ken C.

April 18, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Bruce Hoagland Memorial Service
April 18th, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Bugbee-Riggs Funeral Home
12th St & Long Beach Blvd
Ship Bottom, NJ 08008
Masonic & Eastern Star Services at 2:30 PM

April 17, 2015 ———————————————————————–

5:30 PM

John Herman stopped in the shop and purchased a new Quantum Smoke to match up with one of his “80 fishing rods” for this season. While here we caught up with recent happenings. John said he just got back from another phenomenal Bahamas fishing trip. He reported, “Fishing Andros Island is world class! This trip was about my 30th or 31st Andros excursion.”

Chris Bender was in the shop loading up on whole clams. He reported, “The fishing has been great. There’s lots of small bass chewing. I released one drum, so they are here too.”

Another customer stopped in to spool up a pair of reel. While here he said, “I’ve been jammed with work but I’m looking forward to getting out this weekend. A friend of mine caught a 35″ bass last night as well as two schoolies.”

It’s time to get your fish on!

~ FishHead Greg

April 14, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Mill Creek in Beach Haven West is the place to go for White Perch. If you don’t have grass shrimp… no worries. They’ll eat bloodworms and also hit the one inch Orange or Yellow twister tail grubs or 1″ Berkley Gulp Jigging Grubs on a tiny jig head. If you want shrimp, Fisherman’s Headquarters has the Fisher’s Choice canned Shrimp which contains Shrimp enhanced with Excita-Scent. (Yea, it’s the stuff Roland Martin recommends) These are soft baits to use and make casting difficult. They require patience to use but are very productive with that addition of the Excita-Scent. A lot of shrimp in each can but many will not be whole pieces. These are Grass or Sand Shrimp size. Catching White Perch is a lot of fun on ultra-light tackle. The bite can turn on and off like a light switch.

Graveling Point has been hot when using bloodworms and/or clams for Striped Bass to about 26-inches. These same size Stripers are in the Mullica River where it has been a bloodworm bite.

Winter flounder to 14-inches are being caught at the South-end of the island, with the area behind the ACME particularly productive, especially during the outgoing tide. Chumming and then baiting with bloods or clam strips will put a limit in the bucket. The same should be the case on the Northern-end of the Island. As mentioned above, the Fisher’s Choice canned Shrimp which contains Shrimp enhanced with Excita-Scent can also be used as a hook bait.

Bay-Side Striped Bass are hitting slow moving plugs and also eating bloodworms. Along the island’s beach front sands, it has been the very occasional Schoolie Striper being caught on clam baits.

April 13, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 13, 2015 9:10 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – The season continues to progress

Looks like the season continues to pick up momentum with a mix of encouraging signs. Firstly the first blue claws albeit undersize have found their way into my crab pots which were a welcoming sight before being returned back to the bay to do a lil’ more molting.

As of today the first [that I have seen] laughing gulls have rode the warming Southerlies in today announcing their arrival with that wonder whimsical call.

Bunker are showing up in the back bay in thick schools all up and down the island. It won’t be long before we’re into the thick of things with the snag and drop [fingers crossed].

Lastly and most importantly the sonar continues to improve [and prove] it’s promising “signs of life” which have been validated by continued improving action with only 1 exception this week. The slowest day was yesterday where we were only able to score 2 stripers before trips end.

We will be fishing this Friday for back bay light tackle stripers for the light tackle enthusiasts who would like to jump aboard for an afternoon of fun. New comers and veterans welcome.
Friday 4-8pm, all bait are tackle included.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

1:00 PM

What a beautiful weekend! Hopefully everyone got out to enjoy it. The early season spots are really ramping up.

One customer loaded up on bloodworms and reported catching three striped bass. He said, “During the same tide, another angler caught ten or twelve.” All worming.

Store staffer Blake reported having a great night on Saturday releasing some chubby linesiders fishing slow moving lures.

Store staffer Robbie Vallone hit the surf after work on Sunday he caught one striped bass on bloodworm and missed another. It’s good to hear there are stripers cruising the surf. This is the third front-beach fish that I heard about in the past couple of days.

~ FishHead Greg

April 11, 2015 ———————————————————————–

We received news that Bruce Hoagland died today. He and his wife Pat were the owners of Bruce & Pat’s Bait & Tackle which is now known as Surf City Bait & Tackle. We knew Bruce as a wonderful man who knew a lot and was open to share with so many.

To the Hoagland Family, we are sorry for your loss.

April 10, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 10, 2015 9:27 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – More solid light tackle action

Looks like things are starting to solidify nicely even after this weeks bone chilling weather. The last 2 trips we have continued to connect well with catch and release stripers with both trips seeing double digit numbers on light tackle! Today again we had a couple of doubles and even close to having our first tripe header!

This Sunday we will be fishing another open boat 3-7pm with all bait , tackle, rods ….included. Call to reserve 609-290-1217

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

April 8, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 8, 2015 1:41 PM Subject: Bunker

Had bunker in the surf and on the beach on Monday and Tuesday in Surf City.

~ Annette

April 7, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Store Staffer Steve enjoyed his day off yesterday. He hooked three winter flounder up to 14″ on bloodworms.

Lenny M. was in the shop this afternoon and said he got one short Stripers today and two yesterday. He was fishing one of the early season hot spots with bait. He mentioned it was busy with other anglers but whatelse do you expect for such a beautiful day. These early season spots are the best places to look. They’ve been productive for quite some time; however, expect other areas to slowly pick up as time goes on.

This past weekend I had a great surfing session and witnessed active birds. I thought I saw sea herring. Lots of silver, but another surfer said he saw a bunker in the wash. Just today a customer in the shop mentioned there were bunker in the inlet. View Mr. Mills video attached to April 6th report below.

~ FishHead.Greg

April 6, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 6, 2015 5:52 AM Subject: Birds on Bait

Video of birds working the surf in Loveladies near Coast Easter Sunday 04/05/2015 afternoon. Stripers can’t be far behind! Birds_Loveladies_150405.MOV

~ Craig Mills

April 4, 2015 ———————————————————————–

Received: Apr 4, 2015 6:46 AM Subject: Finally! We are catching!

The moderating weather definitely appears to have helped as our catch totals have improved dramatically and the sonar was lit up all day long with fish under the boat!

Good Friday turned out to be Great Friday as we had the first solid striped bass action of the 2015 season! Regular Jay Simmons was joined by returning angler Warren Adrian to tally up a respectable double digit striper action going 13 for 17 before trips end.

Every drift produced a bite or fish with even a few “doubled up” throughout the afternoon. For those suffering from cabin fever, it’s time to get out and about and spend some time on the brine to cure what ails you!

Next Friday and Sunday I will be running more open boat spring light tackle action trips for anyone who is ready for some fun.

Happy Easter!

Remember to join us on face book to view photos and “like us”.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

March 31, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Fish Head’s Rods and Reels Promo Pricing ( Updated 03/31/2015 @ 8:00 PM )

Fish Head’s General Merchandise Promo Pricing ( Updated 3/31/2014 @ 8:00 PM )

Check Out the above two pages to see our promo prices!

Received: Mar 31, 2015 8:01 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – slow start so far but……..

With the weather appearing to be trending slightly milder hopes are high that things start to heat up on the fishing front. Continued and relentless cold temperatures have not helped waking resident striped bass from their hibernation as we have only scored 1 striped bass so far in 2 trips.

Cy Collins from PA scored our first striper of the season albeit a short sub legal bass that was released. It was hard earned and welcomed aboard for a quick photo before being returned back to the brine.

Finally this week the day temps have risen above the freezing mark and should get things moving and active.

I will be fishing this Friday April 3rd from 2:30 – 7:00 PM and looking to split time between both winter flounder and striped bass for anyone looking to enjoy some milder weather and “time on the brine” , all bait and tackle are provided . The cost is $100.00pp.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas,

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

March 27, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Received: Mar 27, 2015 8:02 PM Subject: Fishing Report – Reel Reaction Sportfishing

The prep work has begun for this upcoming season and I look to get the vessel in the water in the next few weeks. After the boat is splashed, we will start targeting striped bass in the back and eventually out front – followed by the arrival of the summer flounder (my personal favorite). We will be shooting more GoPro videos this year for our charters. We are looking forward to another great year.

On a side note, I am now an active member of the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) – thanks again to Nick Honeschefsky for sponsoring my membership and mentioning us in his April article Saltwater Sportsman magazine article. I have a few articles awaiting publication in The Fisherman Magazine and On The Water magazines for the 2015 season.

If interested in booking a charter for this upcoming season, book through the website: www.reelreactioncharters.com or give me a call or text (609-290-7709).

~ Capt. Brett Taylor Reel Reaction 609.290.7709

March 15, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Received: Mar 15, 2015 6:40 PM Subject: Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters – Season Starter this Friday March 20th

Seems like an eternity since Barnegat Bay was back in it’s more palatable liquid state but the ice has finally cleared and I am anxiously looking forward to this Friday’s March 20th Season Opener.

The off season was spent repowering the Reel Fantasea with a fresh set of Honda outboards and it will be ready about mid week to target resident schoolie stripers on light tackle. Winter flounder are also a possibly as well. This is not a cooler filling trip but possibly a way to rid yourself of cabin fever and have some early season fun.

Dress warm and meet some new friends that are fishing enthusiasts. We will be fishing 2:30- 6:30pm, all tackle, rods and bait included. $100.00 per person. The best season opener we had was a catch of over 100 stripers by four anglers!

The 2015 calendar is filling fast so don’t delay your booking. Reserve that preferred fishing date now. Stripers, Bluefish, Weakfish, Fluke, Wreck, Sea Bass, Blackfish, Inshore and Mid-Shore Pelagic.

Wishing everyone fair winds and calm seas.

~ Capt. Steve Purul Reel Fantasea Fishing Charters 609.290.1217

March 13, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Received: Mar 13, 2015 3:55 PM Subject: Spring Just Around the Corner

Getting warmer? It’s time to start thinking about fishing.

Kev n Ash We will start our 2015 season the first weekend in April, weather permitting, and will start off looking for cod and blackfish (assuming the blackfish season opens April 1). We will start the season with the Kev n Ash, but expect delivery of the Kev n Ash II, a 2015 25′ Steiger Craft (same boat, just newer) some time in mid-May (hopefully in time for opening day of sea bass season).

Contact us at www.lbicharters.com or 856-264-0318 if interested in booking a trip. Capt Greg

~ Capt Greg Carr LBI Charters 856-264-0318

March 9, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Received: Mar 9, 2015 1:59 PM

There have been several changes over the winter in the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association. The biggest change was a sad one for the Association with the passing of Captain John Koegler of the boat “Pop’s Pride.” Captain John was a founding father of the BHCFA and a fixture on the fishing scene in Beach Haven. His presence will be missed by all, especially those teenagers in the Junior Mates Program. This program had a special place in John’s heart.

Association President Captain Jimmy Zavacky reports the Association has added four new sponsors along with a new captain, Ray Lopez. Representatives of the Association have been on hand at four fishing flea markets in the area along with several boat shows including the Atlantic City Boat Show. Upcoming events include the Armed Forces Leisure and Travel Show at Lakehurst on March 17 and the Little Egg Harbor Fishing Flea Market on March 29.

Captain Fran Verdi of the “Francesca Marie” has been busy this winter speaking at the Atlantic City Boat Show and being active in the New Jersey chapter of the Recreational Fishing Alliance. He is already making plans for some early season striped bass and black drum fishing expeditions.

Captain Carl Sheppard of the “Star Fish” reports he is having a stainless steel shoe made for the boat’s keel. He is doing this as a double measure of protection for “Star Fish’s” keel. He is having the boat’s rugs replaced and the deck re-gel coated. He is utilizing the help of some of the members of the Junior Mates Program in making the boat shiny and ship-shape.

Captain Gary Dugan of the “Irish Jig” has been putting time in at several boat and fishing shows trying to pick up some new strategies and techniques to use on the water. He reports that he has been fine tuning his shark fishing skills and plans to put them to good use.

Captain John Lewis of the “Insatiable” kept busy over the winter making boat deliveries to Florida and several other locations. His next trip will be to Mexico. Captain John is excited that he will have a new boat in 2015. He has purchased the “Slammer,” a 44-foot Henriques. He is installing new electronics, improving on the amenities, and will rename her.

Captain Ray Lopez has been upgrading many of the amenities on the “Miss Liane.” He has added a new Garmin plotter/fish finder along with new outriggers, cushions and trolling equipment. He and his first mate Liane are looking forward to their first year as members of the BHCFA.

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

~ Jim Hutchinson Sr.

March 8, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Received: Mar 8, 2015 9:21 AM

Hope all made it through the worst of winter OK. Now that it looks like weather may make a turn for the better and it’s time to think fishing!

Here is a video pictorial of some of our 2014 highlights….

Thank you to all who came out with us last year. We had a lot of return clients as well as many new fisherman and fisherkids. New for 2015 is my 200 hp Envinrude HO Etec engine. The Debbie M now cruises at a faster 35 Kts while being way more fuel efficient. I will now be offering back bay fly-fishing. Knowing the back bay as well as I do, along with the target species and forage I know, this is going to be a great option for trips. I also plan on doing Off the Beach Sharking. Using light tackle, these trip will target brown sharks within sight of the beach. Brown sharks are very good fighters and can average 40 – 60 pounds. And you never know what is going to show up like last year when I caught a 4’ mako. Hope to see you back on the Debbie M this season.

On the nature side of things:

Birds like the bald eagle are already on eggs set to hatch this month. The history of the bald eagle in NJ, and the Lower 48, is not a great one. The use of DDT almost had them on the brink of extinction. Even with DDT banned in the USA in 1972 it is still is found in our environment. Because off DDT, NJ had only one pair nest from 1970 through the early 1980’s. Thanks to the DDT ban and the efforts of the NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife the population increased to 23 pairs in 2000. In 2014 the State was home to 175 known nests with 146 of them active.

Screaming drags,

~ Capt. Alex Majewski Lighthouse Sportfishing 609.548.2511

March 4, 2015 ——————————————————————-

NOTICE – Marine Fisheries Council Meeting

The March 5, 2015 Marine Fisheries Council meeting has been postponed due to the anticipated winter storm. The meeting has been rescheduled to Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 4:00 P.M. at the Stafford Twp. Municipal Building, 260 East Bay Ave., Manahawkin, NJ 08050.

For more information, including the tentative agenda, visit…
www.njfishandwildlife.com/mcnclmtg.htm#marine
…on the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife website.

Among other issues the following Regulatory Actions topics are on the agenda…

• Striped Bass Bonus Program 2015 measures – Possible Action
• Recreational Summer Flounder and Black Sea Bass 2015 measures – Possible Action

February 22, 2015 ——————————————————————-

20th Annual Berkeley Striper Club Fishing Flea Market – March 1st, 2015

Where…
Toms River North Intermediate School
150 Intermediate North Way
Toms River, NJ 08753

When…
Sunday, March 1st, 2015 Doors Open at 9 AM to 2 PM

Admission fees…
Admission $4. Children Under 10 admitted free

– Over 60 Tables of new, used, antique & custom fishing tackle
– Food & Refreshments

This will be the last show that Fisherman’s Headquarters attends for Winter 2015.

Our prices will be insane!

We hope to see you there!

~ FishHead.Greg

February 21, 2015 ——————————————————————-

2015 SURF DAY – by the Jersey Shore Surfcaster’s – February 21, 2015

“A Day Dedicated to the Surfcaster”

Where…
Brookdale Community College
765 Newman Springs Road
Lincroft, New Jersey 07738

When…
Saturday, February 21, 2015 from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Admission fees…
Adults $10.00 Entry Fee. Kids under 10 Free

Over 70 of the industry’s top vendors and over a dozen seminar speakers providing the most advanced surf fishing techniques every surfcasters needs to know. Two (2) main seminar speakers will be ‘Crazy’ Alberto Knie and author John Skinner. Both presenters will be providing 90 minute seminars with extensive live Q&A sessions.

Giveaways and door prizes will continue as part of Surf Day as they are every year. Some great takeaway for some lucky winners will include a ZeeBaas Reel, Van Staal Pliers, Custom Built Century Rod, Flatlander Surfcasting Plug Bag, Custom Built Fiberstar Rod, MAK Surfcasting Plug Bag, Pelican Cooler, with over a dozen high end plugs.

Four (4) scheduled workshops to attend that will take place in the seminar rooms in order to get the most out of each workshop and provide plenty of space for attendees. The workshops will cover rigging and loading plugs, teaser tying, rod building and Beach Buggy 101, aka driving on the beach.

A kid-focused seminar that will be hosted by two JSS members Matt and Tim Risser. They’ll be bringing their ‘Kids First’ approach to the children with some great tips on becoming a surfcaster and at the same time providing the dads and moms with pointers on how to keep the kids interested and wanting to come back for more. Between the Kids Booth and the Seminar, each child will be given a free T-shirt and ticket to a Kid’s ONLY Raffle for a rod and reel combo along with a grab bag full of goodies. Included will also be a hands-on workshop to let the kids play with the fishing gear and try on waders to get them started and interested in the sport.

Strictly Surf with great seminars from Alberto Knie, John Skinner, DJ Muller, Bill Wetzel, among others. Don’t miss out. It is well worth the $10 entry fee.

We hope to see you there!

~ FishHead.Greg

February 14, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Southern Regional High School Fishing Flea Market – Saturday, February 14th

Southern Regional’s annual fishing flea market is one of the largest fishing flea markets in Southern Ocean County

Southern Regional High School Fishing Flea Market

Where…
Southern Regional Middle School – Cafeteria
75 Cedar Bridge Rd.
Manahawkin, NJ 08050

When…
Saturday, February 14th from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Admission fees…
Adults $4 Entry Fee. Children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult

– New and used fishing gear and services will be available from vendors at over 100 tables
– All proceeds benefit the Southern Regional High School Fishing Club
– For additional show or vendor information contact Bob MacMaster, 609 597-9481 X2256, rmacmaster@srsd.net

We hope to see you there!

~ FishHead.Greg

January 23, 2015 ——————————————————————-

3:00 AM

Fisherman’s Headquarters and crew are rocking at the shop. We are very busy with the usual off season things. Lots of rod and reel repair/service in progress. Now is the time to drop off your tackle for routine maintenance. Remember Fisherman’s Headquarters is both a Penn Reels and Van Staal Reel Factory Authorized Service, Warranty and Parts Center. We have a team of full time professional and experienced reel technicians and rod craftsman here to take care of your fishing rods and reels. We service all major brands of fishing reels. For those do it yourselfers, we stock an extra large inventory of reel parts as well as cleaners and lubricants specifically designed for fishing and use in harsh saltwater environment.

We are also gearing up for some of the last few fishing tackle shows of the year. Yes TACKLE not pickles and beef jerky.

This Saturday January 24, is the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association’s Pete D’Alessio Memorial Fishing Flea Market. Stop on by the Elks Lodge 1875 at 600 Washington Street Toms River, NJ 08753… Doors open at 8am. In the past the show was held on days with light snow; however, stay tuned in case of a snow emergency cancellation.

A few more weeks down the pike will be one of the oldest and largest fishing flea markets in the area… The Southern Regional High School Fishing Flea Market is February 14th, 8am. $4 Admission. Then the following weekend…

The 9th Annual Surf Day hosted by the Jersey Shore Surfcaster is one month away! Saturday, February 21st at Brookdale Community College in Linecroft, NJ Doors open at 8:30am.
“A Day Dedicated to the Surfcaster” – Strictly Surf with great seminars from Alberto Knie, John Skinner, DJ Muller, Bill Wetzel, among others. Don’t miss out. It is well worth the $10 entry fee

Then our last of the year will be on March 1. The 19th Annual Berkeley Striper Club Fishing Flea Market at the Toms River North Intermediate School at 150 Intermediate North Way in Toms River, NJ 08753. Admission $4 Doors open at 9am

We hope to see you there!

~ FishHead.Greg

January 20, 2015 ——————————————————————-

Received: Jan 19, 2015 7:50 PM Subject: JCAA Comments on Fluke Addendum

Please read and pass on to fellow anglers.

I encourage everyone to write letters or send emails to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC).

Mail comment letters to:
Mr. Kirby Rootes-Murdy – FMP Coordinator
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
1050 North Highland St.
Suite 200 A-N
Arlington, VA 22201
or email him at:
krootes-murdy@asmfc.org

All comments must be submitted by 5:00 PM on 01/23/2015. Stating your opinions is fine too, even if they differ from the Jersey Coast Anglers Association (JCAA) position. For those who agree with us and don’t have the time to write extensive letters, it would help to just send a letter stating you as an individual or your club agree with the Jersey Coast Anglers Association (JCAA) comments which are as per the following JCAA letter…

JCAA Comments on Fluke Addendum XXVI – 2015

January 19th, 2015

Mr. Kirby Rootes-Murdy – FMP Coordinator
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission
1050 North Highland St.
Suite 200 A-N
Arlington, VA 22201

Dear Mr. Kirby Rootes-Murdy:

For many years fluke were managed by state-by-state measures with conservation equivalency. Each state was given its own quota while being allowed to set their own regulations. In 2013 we still had state-by-state quotas but additionally, the ASMFC allowed the projected coastwide underage of fluke to be utilized. Ultimately New Jersey and New York shared this quota. It worked out well in that New Jersey was able to add additional days to its season while New York was able to reduce its size limit.
However, in 2014 regionalization was forced upon us against the will of the vast majority of our fishermen, fishing groups and those who represented NJ on the commission. New Jersey’s anglers wanted to stay with state-by-state measures or be made its own region. However, despite that the ASMFC, via a conference call, made exceptions for Massachusetts and Rhode Island allowing them to be their own regions even though that option was not in the addendum. Why were they allowed to do that when NJ was not?
New Jersey was forced into a region with Connecticut and New York. In part this was done because the fluke biomass has shifted further northward. However, even with New York’s size limit being reduced to 18″ from 19″ while New Jersey’s was increased from 17 1/2″ to 18″, New Jersey still caught far more fluke than New York. New Jersey has the most fluke, the most fluke fishermen and the highest percentage of fluke trips to overall fishing trips and yet regulations were adjusted so that New Jersey’s projected harvest was lower than some of its past quotas. It certainly seems that NJ should be allowed to be its own region.
Another reason NJ was forced into regionalization was due to a disparity in the regulations in the Raritan Bay area where the commission deemed it was unfair for NJ anglers to have a 2” lower size limit than anglers from NY who were fishing in essentially the same waters. However, instead of correcting the problem all the commission did was to transfer the problem to Delaware Bay. In 2014 NJ anglers had to abide by an 18″ size limit while DE anglers fishing the bay were allowed to keep fluke that were just 16″. This was unfair to the anglers of southern NJ and many of our fishing businesses there lost revenue as people opted to fish out of DE instead.
While you can say that with regionalization in 2014, we had a projected harvest for each state as opposed to quotas or target quotas, it certainly appears to be a reallocation of quota. It seems that a portion of New Jersey’s quota was reallocated to New York. Additionally though, fish from other states were also reallocated to our region. The projected harvest was substantially increased for Connecticut and New York while at the same time New Jersey’s projected harvest was decreased.
Then low and behold the MRIP numbers came out and showed that New Jersey over fished its projected harvest but since Connecticut and New York under fished theirs, our region is Ok. The data also showed that the coastwide quota was slightly exceeded but that may be neutralized by a slight coastwide quota increase for 2015. Now, it appears that NJ is being forced to stay in the regionalization plan or face significant cuts under state-by-state measures. Still, it initially seemed that even with regionalization, NJ would come out of this OK as our region underfished its projected harvest. One would think that therefore, we would at least have very similar regulations to what we had in 2014. However, there are several options that would change the structure of the regions and rumor has it that New York is pushing for a 18.5″ size limit so that our region’s season could be extended to 153 days, 25 days more than last year. An increase of the size limit to more than 18” will not be tolerated by the vast majority of anglers in NJ. In fact the majority of anglers in NJ may prefer returning to a 17 ½” size limit.
JCAA is on record as favoring state-by state measures with conservation equivalency. However, for 2015 we will only favor that option if it can be done without forcing us to have significantly stricter regulations. More specifically, we do not want a higher size limit, smaller bag limit or shorter season than we had in 2014.
Therefore of the various regionalization plans, we favor Option 5A. It is the fairest option not only to NJ but to other states as well. This option would have Delaware Bay as its own region and it could act as a transitional area between regions to the north and south of it. Perhaps Delaware Bay could have a 17” size limit while the region to its south could have a 16” size limit and the region to the north of it could have an 18” size limit. A 1” difference between any regions is far more acceptable than a 2” difference. Having a neighboring region with any more than a 1” less restrictive size limit is totally unacceptable. Further having Delaware Bay as its own region should have minimal impact on the other regions. For example, if the option to split NJ in half were chosen, there would likely again be a 2” gap between the regions. This would pit northern NJ anglers against those in southern NJ. Northern NJ as well as other states within that region would then likely have to sacrifice fish to accommodate southern NJ.
In closing we would like to urge the ASMFC to thoroughly review the pros and cons of each option and be as fair as possible to all the states. Lastly, we would like to thank you for allowing us to comment on this matter.

Sincerely,
Paul Haertel – President, JCAA
Cell (973) 943-8201 Home (973) 472-5630 E-mail – anglerpmh@aol.com

Thank You, Paul Haertel – President, JCAA

January 12, 2015 ——————————————————————-

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UPDATE – Daiwa DSPM Bullet Lures are all in stock
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UPDATE – The availability of MAK Angler Surf Bags is slowly but surely going to increase in 2015.