The calm before the storm. That seems to be the theme across most of the Island when it comes to the fishing action on the salty side. As bunker and small baitfish continue to stack up along the back bays and inland waters, we appear to be just a few warm days away from the breakout of spring fishing. On the other hand, the freshwater fishing continues to be hot with trout and perch leading the way.
John from Hudson Park Bait and Tackle in New Rochelle confirms reports of small striped bass being caught on ½-ounce bucktails, as well as a few flounder (caught and released as the season begins April 1) out of Orchard Beach and Low Harbor. Although the pickings have been slow so far, John says “we need to dust off our gear and get ready now because they will be upon us before we know it.”
Small stripers are also holding steady around the George Washington Bridge and back of Little Neck Bay, as well as in Jamaica Bay as reported by Paul from River Bay Outfitters in Oceanside and Carmine from The Camp Site Sport Shop in Huntington Station. Joe from Stella Maris Bait and Tackle in Brooklyn, adds that some flounder have been picked around the George Washington Bridge as well with bloodworms being the bait of choice. Flounder season starts on April 1. It’s best to jump on them early. Lloyd Harbor, Moriches Bay and Quogue Canal are other flounder spots worth a try.
Early in the week, before the winds began to blow, anglers heading out of Montauk were treated to some stellar codfishing aboard the Viking Fleet. Many anglers caught their limit and the fish ranged in size from shorts to 15 pounds. The fleet should get to test the waters again soon. If the action holds get out right away because you never know how long solid codfish action will last. If you haven’t had your fill of herring yet, there are still a few to be found inside the western North Shore harbors, as well as on the western South Shore at the Jones Beach piers and Magnolia Pier. Action has been best at night.
On the freshwater side, ponds and streams have been stocked with trout and perch fishing is off to a terrific start. With Connetquot River fishing well and the Nissequogue and Carmans rivers set to open April 1, there’s no better way to shake off the winter rust than by working the pools and current lines for some fresh trout. Black stone flies have been an early season favorite so far, with a night crawler as a close second. John Sr. from Terminal Tackle in Kings Park adds in that there’s been good fishing in the Centerport Twin Ponds as well for both trout and white perch.
Carp have begun to bite with regularity across the Island. Anglers using bread or corn kernel baits on the bottom have been playing catch and release with the big minnows when the winds lay low. Best of this action has been in the early morning. Try your luck between casts for trout at Argyle Lake, Massapequa Reservoir and Avon Pond.
Fishing Forecast for Long Island
Though the saltwater scene is showing signs of life, freshwater is still the best bet this weekend. Target trout and perch for the greatest odds of success, but if you’re looking to hear your drag sing, grab some corn and bread and target carp.
Excellent article Ryan keep up the good work!
Bunker never left the conny,pecrch and some nice rainbows are here.just waiting for the bass?
great article talking about herring in harbors, want to get some in SB Harbor and smoke them