Long Island Fishing Forecast - April 7, 2016

The recent April weather has not made it easy to get out on the water. Strong winds and rain mixed with snow is an angler’s enemy but some braved the conditions and found a little success. When the local crew was able to get out, codfishing was hot, as was freshwater action with trout, perch and carp. With the peanut bunker and spearing continuing to show in great numbers across most of the Island, things seem to be set up well for the upcoming season.

John from Hudson Park Bait and Tackle reported flounder and striped bass being picked in Eastchester Bay and Turtle cove. The start of flounder season has not had a hot start however, as only a few flatties have made the scene.

Stretch from Stella Maris also reports some flounder and schoolie bass being caught between the bridges in Jamaica Bay. Bloodworms are still the bait of choice for flounder with the bass feeding on the stacked up bunker and spearing. Carmine from The Campsite relayed news of some small stripers as well, these coming from Little Neck Bay. The hottest action on the salty side seems to be aboard the Viking Fleet. As reported yesterday, Mike from Cow Harbor scored a pool winning cod weighing 24-pounds. The fishing aboard the vessel has been very strong – when the weather allows them to leave the dock. Most of the action so far has been on clams. Codfishing is, of course, a great way to keep entertained until striper season finally opens on Long Island – as long as the seas are manageable.

On the freshwater side, there continues to be constant action with trout, crappies and carp. Paul from River Bay Outfitters reports that while checking such spots as Carmens river and Belmont Lake, the trout were so thick they were actually jumping on land at times. With all designated rivers and ponds stocked as of now, the trout fishing continues to delight. John, Sr. reports there have been high success rates on yellow perch and crappies at Blydenburgh Park. Soaking some bread balls or corn kernels is another good bet for putting some stress on the line with both trout and carp during these early-season slow weeks.  Keep in mind that you want to move this bait as little as possible to keep from getting in the weeds or tipping off the game.

Fishing Forecast for Long Island

With a couple nice days projected to be breaking through next week, things are looking up. With a few birds being reported diving on bait when the sun has broken through, bass action might turn on almost any afternoon. That codfish action is also worth a bet – get on them right away because you never know how long that run will last.