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12/12/2016 11:00 PMWinter hasn’t officially set in yet, but don’t think for a moment that’s too early for thoughts of exotic, warm-water fishing destinations. Actually, for those well-positioned to take advantage of such opportunities, the timing is quite ripe considering the time necessary to arrange room accommodations, transportation reservations, and gear preparations. Christmas is around the corner, and so why not consider treating yourself, your special fisher, or the both of you to what could be the trip of a lifetime?
Take it from experience: hooking into and fighting an exotic species is rewarding enough. Close to shore, there are usually flats that offer blinding runs of a barracuda or bonefish, the tiring pull of a giant trevally, or the fight of the fierce-looking payara. Maybe it’s the challenge of a 30-pound sea-run brown trout that runs up South American rivers as the ice melts from the high country, or perhaps northern Costa Rica’s giant jungle tarpon is the draw. No matter what tweaks your interest, a trip to a fishing paradise just may be the ticket. The extra benefits of mingling with the locals, seeing breathtaking scenery, and tasting some unique dishes are an added bonus. And with today’s technology, these moments can be shared in real time with family and friends back home.
If the sandy flats and crystal-clear waters of some far-off island or remote location isn’t in the offing, then an alternative might be the nutrition-rich bays of Long Island Sound. Yes, during the cold months, one of the most rewarding activities is scratching the sea bottom for a basket of Connecticut’s delicious bivalves. The absolutely best-tasting shellfish comes from the cold, clear water that settles in during winter months and, now, just in time for the holidays, water temperatures are cooperating. Everything needed for clamming is available at Captain Morgan’s, including a variety of U.S.A.-made clam rakes that might just make your clammer as happy as a clam and your holiday table a little fuller.
On the Water
The polar freeze actually made it here after a tumultuous ride. It has been a stormy, wet, windy, and moderately chilled run, but now, it’s beginning to feel like December. Long Island Sound water temperatures are ranging from the high 40s offshore to the mid-40s inshore. A glance across the water would reveal a rather peaceful and quiet scene due to the fact that most vessels are now resting ashore, save for the normal freighter and barge traffic.
One would think that fishing opportunities have dwindled and rightfully so. However, while venturing into the main tidal rivers, a fisher can continue to reel in a few nice stripers that have headed up river—some with full-bellied girth, too. Try coaxing these early holdovers with some herring or mackerel or even weighted soft plastics. Many of these fish are gradually moving northward and would liven up the day when caught. Be prepared to work for it, but the Thames, Connecticut, and Housy rivers are still showing signs of life. A spattering of Atlantic herring are also showing up along the shoreline and the harbors, supplementing the food source for fish and seals. Therefore, it’s time to check your supply of Sabikis.
Black sea bass season continues through the end of the year and, not surprisingly, fishers are still heading out on calmer days. What’s more, fish are being caught, further illustrating what a great season it’s been for these tasty reef-huggers. If one can locate live crabs, sea bass will feed on them; however, squid still rivals as the silver bullet when presented with a hi-lo rig.
There is plenty of open sweet water fishing with greatly improved levels and flows thanks to the recent rain. If one has any casting energy left in that over-worked arm, check out the key trout rivers that received fall stockings. Several of the trout parks and supply ponds would be worth visiting, as well. Also, good Atlantic salmon action is continuing in the Shetucket River—another stretch of fishable water to visit. So why not wet a line in the open water before any ice sets up?
Anglers worth their reputations as die-hards know about mini-vacations at those fantastic fishing destinations. A few spots are left for such adventures in locations like Argentina, Alaska, Christmas Island, Greenland, and India. Trips will be commencing in January and many are geared toward fly fishing, while others can go either way. Next time visiting Captain Morgan’s, check out availability for these exotic trips, which are not for the faint-hearted.
Licenses
Fishing, hunting, and shellfish licenses for 2017 are now available at Captain Morgan’s. Don’t forget to bring along the proper identification and any certificates if you recently completed an archery or firearms safety course.
Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our U.S.A. and international fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.
For all things fishy including crabbing supplies, swing by the shop (203-245-8665), open seven days, located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better...
Tight Lines,
Captain Morgan
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