The captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are finding good numbers of fish in the bay waters, the inshore areas of the ocean, and at the Barnegat Ridge. While they prefer fishing in the ocean, when the strong northeast winds blow, they have been finding fish in the calmer bay waters.
Captain Carl Sheppard reports the 'Star Fish' fished one day last week with Captain Vic for plenty of sea bass on the wrecks. Captain John had the boat to the Barnegat Ridge for little tunny and unlimited bluefish to 16-pounds another day. Because of the recent northeast swells, Friday was spent in the bay. Fortunately, the party found weakfish amongst the sharks, sea robins, and immature black bass. Saturday was much of the same, as 11 people celebrated a bachelor party. On Sunday Captain Sheppard and his party celebrated a 21st birthday, with black bass, bluefish, and some nice porgies.
Captain John Koegler had the 'Pop's Pride's' out to the Barnegat Ridge for some great slammer bluefish action. The Roger Sanford party enjoyed a great trip as they released over 30 monster blues up to 15 pounds, while keeping only two. Captain Koegler predicts the major NE storm over the weekend will greatly improve inshore fishing. He and other boats in the Association are able to fish for a wide variety of pan fish in the bay if the ocean is rough.
Additional information on the association can be found at www.BHCFA.com