Once again the weather has not be cooperative with the fishing scene on Long Island. With striped bass season set to open on April 15 continued action with schoolies and scattered reports of bigger fish set hopes high for the coming days. On the fresh water end, action continues strong with trout, perch and carp hold strong. We’ve also had a lot of reports of pickerel on the take. Just remember, the long green predators are out of season until the first Saturday in May.
Much like the anglers, the peanut bunker and spearing up and down the island are waiting for the fish to move in. Robert from Sea Isle Tackle in Freeport is still seeing signs of large bunker schools as well as a few herring. Reports of occasional birds working the bait schools from as far east as Greenport to the western tip of the Island have proved that things are stacking up well. John from Hudson Park Bait & Tackle in New Rochelle reported schoolie bass still being caught across the Little Neck back bay areas. Carmine from The Campsite in Huntington also added bass action in Manhasset and Jamaica Bay as well.
The most exciting striper news comes from Stretch at Stella Maris in Brooklyn as he reports a 32-pounder being caught and released using Mojo rigs out of Raritan Bay. Stretch also reports signs of flounder action on the Palm Beach flats. Although the flounder fishing has been slow, John from Terminal Tackle in Kings Park and Bryce from White Water Outfitters also reported limited action out of Nissequogue River and Quogue Canal. Bryce also adds in that there may still be cod to be caught off of Montauk, although its been tough to get out. Mark from Cow Harbor in Northport says that schoolies have been active from shore hitting swimming plugs and plastics out of the Northport area.
Freshwater has continued to be the best way to put a bend in the pole as action remains steady. Paul from River Bay Outfitters in Oceanside contributes that although this week’s weather didn’t help the scheduled freshwater turnouts, the rivers and ponds are still well stocked and beginning to heat up as bass are starting to come alive. Pickerel have also begun to hit well with perch, panfish and carp not to be forgotten.
Fishing Forecast for Long Island
With the weekly weather forecast looking to bring warm temperatures and calm days, things may be coming together on the fresh and salt sides of the water just in time. As striper season nears commencement, its always a good bet to get on them early. Also, with warm weather comes great action on the rivers and ponds so look to add dropping a line into the week’s plans.