The fishing has grown stingy as we move into the later days of the year and slide towards Christmas. The most widespread action has come from the herring bite but with the back and forth weather bouncing above and below the freezing line, it has been tough for anglers to find the right days to get on them. A brief warming spell over the weekend and into early next week could present a perfect opportunity if the skies stay dry.
Stretch from Stella Maris reports that the herring have been awesome out of Sheepshead Bay. The best bite has been at night but anglers are still finding fish during the daylight hours. Coney Island Pier and Blue Foot Bridge have also yielded some fish this week. There have been a few schoolie bass and shad around. December 15 is the last day of striper season for NY so if you haven’t had your fill by the, the ship will have sailed.
At Camp-Site Sports Shop, Carmine has also been noticing plenty of herring in the local waters. The best areas to work would be off the docks inside Huntington and Cold Spring harbors. Simple herring rigs sold at any bait and tackle shop are all you need, along with some cooperation from Mother Nature.
In Kings Park, John, Sr., from Terminal Tackle spoke of herring being found at the Centerport Dam, as well as in Huntington Harbor. When asked about the squid action, he stated that he hasn’t heard of much lately but he would also look for them in the Huntington Harbor for starters until further reports of the bite begin to surface.
Mark from Cow Harbor reports that the herring have occupied the local Northport waters as well. Inside the harbor and off most of the local docks will produce some action on a pretty reliable basis. Although he had heard early reports of squid further east on the Island, towards Port Jeff, the local scene hasn’t produced much. He added that last year’s late squid run last year was incredible, so hopefully they will find their way back. If not, it just may be Nature balancing itself out.
Out on the East End, at White Water Outfitters, Jake has seen a continuing strong bite with cod and sea bass on the Southeast side of Block Island. The wind lately has made things difficult for anyone looking to get out, but when it dies down enough, the fishing is surely worth the trip. The action has been going since the end of blackfish season, although it was slow to start, but seems to be picking up steam as the days move on.
In Oceanside, Paul from River Bay Outfitters reports fewer herring this week than he had seen the week prior. There have been some schoolie bass around in about 40-feet of water but again, that season ends on the 15th of December.
On the freshwater side, Paul says that the trout bite on the Connetquot River continues to impress. He just heard word that the river will remain open all year which is big news for any local fly-fisherman. The river is still packed with trout after this year’s stockings and anglers are finding success using midge patterns. Last week was one of the best for trout recently. Hopefully next week, with a little warmer weather, will follow right in the same footsteps.
Fishing Forecast for Long Island
The Long Island fishing scene can be tough this time of year but there are still options out there to help bide the time. Herring are running strong and are a nice change of pace from the usual bite. Freshwater also seems to be fishing well and until the lakes freeze over, if they do this year, dropping a fly for some trout is an excellent way to challenge yourself and keep the lines tight.