Little to report on Long Island this week. Angler effort is at its yearly low, and recent snows haven’t helped give anglers the urge to pick up their fishing rods and hit the water. The cod bite out of Montauk continues, as anglers continue to bring good keeper codfish back to the dock. The Viking Fleet reported a picky day Wednesday, with good action at sun-up followed by a slow afternoon.
The black sea bass season is ending in a couple weeks, so anglers hoping to experience the fun and fast action of an offshore sea bassing should take advantage of this fishery while it’s still open.
Open freshwaters throughout the island are producing pickerel. Stickbaits will be the most productive option for lures.
Anglers fishing brackish waters will find willing white perch by fishing grass shrimp or small jigs.
Trout fishing, where open, will also be productive in the cold weather.
Best Bets for the Weekend
The seas look calm enough to make for smooth sailing on one of the party boats out of Montauk. Call ahead to reserve a spot. If you’d rather stay on land, take a look for one of the freshwater species biting throughout the island. White perch would be my pick, as these panfish are not only fun to catch on ultra-light tackle, but make a great meal afterward.