Some of the captains and boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association have already made some successful trips while the rest of the boats are right on the verge of splashdown.
Captain Jimmy Zavacky of the "Reel Determined" recently left the dock at 4 in the afternoon for a run up the beaches of Long Beach Island. Once he found the birds working he had non-stop jigging action until 7:30. He and his crew limited out while catching some 72 bass over 30-inches.
Captain Frank Camarda took the party boat "Miss Beach Haven" out for a bottom fishing trip and worked hard for fish for his anglers. Some anglers managed to limit out with George from Manahawkin winning the pool with a 5-pound blackfish. Waretown Ray took top honors another day with a 4-pounder. Dogfish were a nuisance at times.
Captain Fran Verdi on the "Drop Off" reports he has been fishing for a couple of weeks now. He made a striper trip to the Mullica River catching both bass and a 29-inch black drum fish. Captain Fran has also done some wreck fishing in the ocean and found both blackfish and cod. His plans include clamming for bass in the bay and running the beach. Once the fluke season starts, he will be running trips for them.
Captain Carl Sheppard reports he has the "Star Fish" in the water and ready for action. This year the boat is licensed to carry up to 19 passengers. Captain Carl is looking forward to getting on some blackfish and striped bass action.
Captain Lindsay Fuller has been making some trips to the Outer Bank of North Carolina where the "June Bug" spends its winters for updates and some winter fishing. Captain Lindsay reports the "June Bug" is ready for action and will be returning to New Jersey at some point in May.
Strong winds have hampered the fishing in North Carolina this spring, but Captain Lindsay is always looking for anglers to get in on that blue water fishing.
Additional information on the association can be found at www.BHCFA.com or by calling 877-524-2423.