North Shore Long Island Fishing Report
I really thought we had seen the worst week of fishing a few times already, but the deep freeze lately is proving that things will get worse before they get any better. John over at Terminal Tackle in Kings Park said it is just too darn cold for anyone to even want to go out. The North Shore harbors and bays are iced over like no one has seen in years, and he did not hear of anyone this week that went out in search of freshwater fish in open water or on the ice. Instead, customers have kept busy making lures, tying flies, building custom rods, and servicing their gear. Cow Harbor Bait & Tackle in Northport is also busy with rod building and gear repair, and they urge everyone to drop off their setups soon before the March and April rush starts.
South Shore Long Island Fishing Report
The South Shore is looking no better, according to Bill at Combs Bait & Tackle in Amityville who said that everyone is locked up now, and sailing is stalled until the ice breaks up. The King Cod had a decent haul last Thursday with cod to 10 lbs and a handful of ling hitting the rails. However, conditions worsened which caused them to bail early and head for the dock. Every trip since has been cancelled due to high winds and ice in the harbor.
Mike at White Water Outfitters in Hampton Bays wanted to let everyone know that they will have a booth set up at the Ward Melville High School Saltwater Fishing Expo and Fundraiser on Saturday, March 7th, so be sure to stop by and visit them at this great event.
Metro Long Island Fishing Report
John and the crew at Jack’s Bait & Tackle in the Bronx are stocking up for the new inventory coming and preparing for the upcoming Hudson River striper season, which opens on March 16th. A few guys were trying a little catch and release fishing to scout if any bass were in the area yet, but many places froze over a week and a half ago. John said we really need some warmer weather before things really start happening. Vinny at Bernie’s Fishing Tackle in Brooklyn knew of a few party boats that were trying to get out to the cod grounds, but nothing noteworthy made it back to the shop.
East End/North Fork Long Island Fishing Report
I spoke to Paul from Paulie’s Bait & Tackle in Montauk, and he had nothing good to say about fishing on the East End. No one has reported any luck freshwater fishing, and the charter boats are locked in at the docks. This weekend you can visit Paulie’s at their booth at the East Meadow Fishing Flea Market on February 22nd.
Best Bets for the Weekend
This weekend might be looking like a bust, although ice fishing is a definite possibility since a number of guys have had some luck. However, few reports are not making it back to the shops so I have not heard of many good spots to speak of. It is supposed to warm up a bit this weekend with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees on Sunday, but with a good amount of rain also coming I would be cautious if you hit the ice. The upside to ice melting is that the harbors might finally be open enough for cod boats to get out. Most have already cancelled trips this weekend, but they are hopeful about heading out early next week.
If you don’t feel like actually hitting the water, there are plenty of events coming up where you can get a fishing fix. This weekend is the East Meadow Fishing Flea Market, and you can also look forward to the Long Island Boat Show at Nassau Coliseum next weekend. Check your calendars for other local fishing events that will help keep you from going stir crazy waiting for spring.