We’re hearing good things from along the New Jersey shore, both inshore and offshore.

Inshore, fluke (Paralichthys dentatus) are still holding well. Though most of them are shorts, there are enough keepers mixed in to keep anglers interested.

Saltwater Nation anglers have also been getting consistent catches of bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) out to five miles. The fish have been smaller, in the 1 to 4 pound range, but the smaller blues are still great catching on light tackle and much better in the skillet than their older brothers and sisters.

Offshore, we’re hearing about consistent catches of bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) 30-50 miles out. Anglers have had particularly good luck with bluefin around the Princess Lump, about 42 miles east of Manasquan Inlet. Fish have been active in depth ranges from about 125 to 150 feet. Anglers reporting bluefin catches in this area have also reported that small schools of dolphin (mahi mahi) (Coryphaena hippurus) have been following the hooked tuna up from deep. If you hook a bluefin, keep an eye out for the dolphin and be ready with a lighter rig to toss a chunk of cut bait or a small artificial to pick up a few of these bonus fish.

Farther out, anglers are finding yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares), bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and some swordfish (Xiphias gladius) around Hudson Canyon.

FISH ON!

 

Bigeye Tuna, Bluefin Tuna, Bluefish, fish, Fishing, Fluke, New Jersey, Swordfish

By Sid

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