It’s been a good fall so far. They’re still around after appearing along the coast some three weeks ago. Much of the better, concentrated schools are currently zeroed on the Watch Hill area. Tides have been a governing factor where they will appear next along with anchovies naturally. There were a few days of hard blowing winds that shut the fishery down, but generally speaking the bite has been consistent on a daily basis.
Rougher conditions aid to better success. Winds and tide change can move the fish from Fishers Island to Weekapaug each day. In most cases terns and gulls spot them first. Once the birds get full and stop chasing them, you have to be observant and look for slashes. They are still around but tougher to sight.
Best bet are smaller flies in the two inch range. Sinking lines and longer clear leaders will get to where they’re eating. The stronger currents and higher wind require a sinking line. Longer, fast casts and quick stripping rates once the fly hits the water will get you tight.
Captains Log
Joe Herbert returned home after some fishing trips up north. There’re nothing like the home scene and a few albies to welcome you home.
Dave Pollack too has been traveling across the country. It was nice to see him tight to an albie again.
Capt. Derick was in the area visiting some family. He guides out of Florida. He decides he wanted to try a little northern flavor.
Roger Stone and Martin Silton from Vermont decided to leave all that strom damage behind for a day and fore fill a long time dream of catching some hard tails. They had done the Florida tarpon/bone fishing thing, now they wanted to try something different. Well as you can see, they’re wishes rang true. Congratulations guys!
Roger Stone holding his first albie
Martin Silton may have been tired after the first run, but he hung in there to finish strong.
A job well done.
Ed Braun and Peter Schilling are longtime friends and trout enthusiasts with strong ties to the Trout Unlimited Organization. They do enjoy the salt living near the ocean. They have both done the bluefish/striper fishing, wanted to try something different but more challenging. They sure got their feet wet.
Ed could not believe the strength and endurance of these little tunnies.
Pete’s prayers and longtime passion to catch a tuna has been answered.
Both Ed and Pete caught their first albies on this trip. Let’s hope there are many more tight lines. I’ve known both gentlemen for a number of years now. They actively have helped promote the knowledge of environment and educational issues that challenge us each day. Great to have them on board. Truly enjoy the day and their long lasting partnership.