The captains of the Beach Haven Charter breathed a collective sigh of relief when Hurricane Irene spared the Beach Haven area from any severe damage. Despite the storm not being quite as destructive as billed, the captains did not regret any of the pre-storm preparations that helped to keep their boats and equipment safe.
Those with smaller boats pulled them out of the water and stored them safely on land for the weekend. The larger boats were tucked away in safe harbors with extra lines in place and a myriad of tasks taken care of.
The question now is just what kind of effect Irene will have on the fishing. Just prior to the storm, Captain Tim Knorr had his boat the "William Knorr" out on four inshore trips and reported a definite improvement in the number and size of the sea bass being caught. He fished the Garden State Reef, the inlet, and the Barnegat Reef where he managed to boat some nice fluke to 24-inches in addition to some nice sea bass.
Anglers wishing to catch sea bass are reminded that the season will close after September 11 until it re-opens November 1. The summer flounder season will close for the year on September 25.
Although the storm did muddy the bay waters quite a bit, some captains believe the storm will be a benefit to ocean fishing. The green algae bloom that had been just off the beaches should be dissipated now and the upheaval of water will help add oxygen.
Additional information on the association can be found at www.BHCFA.com or by calling 1-877-LBI-BHCFA (1-877-524-2423).