Both the inshore and offshore waters surrounding Long Beach Island are offering a wealth of fishing opportunities for the boats of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association.
The fluke fishing in the waters of Little Egg Harbor Bay and Great Bay are producing not only good numbers of summer flounder, but a much higher percentage of fish are over four pounds than has been seen in recent years. Waters which have been producing big fluke include the Middle Grounds, the ICW, Marshelder Channel, and Great Bay waters from the old fish factory through the clam stakes.
Also providing action in the bay waters are some feisty 3-5 pound bluefish that have the knack of showing up practically anywhere. Boats have been finding them near the inlet early in the morning before the heavier boat traffic arrives.
The striped bass action in the ocean has slowed somewhat, but there is a lot of bunker around, and stripers can often be found around these pods of bait fish. Right now the best bet for the BHCFA has been trolling bunker spoons and looking for signs of fish on the machine. At times big bluefish and even thresher sharks will attack the bunker spoons.
The inshore wrecks and artificial reefs are producing some good numbers of black sea bass along with some ling, blackfish, and even some cod. Captains with their own numbers for pieces of structure have found some very nice fish.
The canyons have already come alive and recent trips offshore have resulted in catches of big eye tuna, yellowfin, and some bluefin. This is a good time to fish offshore as the weather is usually better than the fall, and there are not as many boats.
The Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association will begin its Junior Mates Program on Thursday, June 26, at the Beach Haven Maritime Museum. This summer long learning experience is open to any youngsters over the ages 13 and over who would like to have the chance to learn more about fishing. Information on this program and the BHCFA in general can be found at www.BHCFA.org