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11/19/2018 11:00 PMThe bounty of fish leading up to this year’s Thanksgiving is something that fishers cannot deny. Long Island Sound has been filled with fin fish. We are experiencing some really fine fishing these days and, for that, we should be thankful. This season’s yield saw many surprises not only in the sizes and numbers of fish, but also the different marine species that are following the Gulf Stream up the Atlantic, with some of them eventually making their way into Long Island Sound.
Putting aside the constant interruptions of the unrelenting weather pattern, the fish arrived, albeit somewhat late. Wind often upset the water clarity, causing fish to move into more agreeable water. However, as Mother Nature always seems to do, the wind and wave action energized both the Sound and its estuaries. This was tough on the fishers who trying for the fish, but was good for the habitat, nevertheless.
Two of the best times of the year to be out on the Sound or its tidal rivers are early spring and, especially, late fall. Traffic on the water is at a minimum, the air is brisk, and fish are eager to feed. It’s a time when the mind is clear and thoughts are not disrupted by screaming motors that throw inconsiderate wakes. Such a time often breeds new ideas that can enhance one’s fishing productivity. It is a time to be thankful—even more so if a fish shares the moment.
It isn’t just the briny that works its magic during Thanksgiving time. The sweet water can have similar moments when a lake or pond is so quiet that you can hear a faint echo in the distance. As a fly or lure is tracked through the water and grabs the attention of a largemouth, the splashes of its top water dance can be heard clear across to the opposite side. “Nice hookup,” a fisher whispers. Anything louder would hardly matter since no one else is around. Even here, fishers are presented with a solitude that easily invites thought and thankfulness.
Thoughts like these may send some people to the tropics in search of bonefish or a permit. Perhaps that tail-walking bass provided the impetus to create a new fly that would fool even the most cautious of lunkers. Nevertheless, Thanksgiving is a time for just that: giving thanks for all that matters. So, for all fishers and non-fishers alike, may you have a happy and memorable Thanksgiving holiday.
On the Water
The week started off with the air temperatures below 30 degrees and Long Island Sound water temps dropping to 55 degrees. The wind subsided to around five knots and the sun was bright for most of the day. That changed as the skies opened up under the threat of our first snowfall. Eventually, daytime air temps settled in the 40- to 50-degree range as the Thanksgiving holiday approached, even though more of the white stuff was anticipated.
Blackfish (tautog) was the Sound’s main attraction as cooler water temps edged ’togs into deeper water from 40- to 55 feet. It was the wind and persistent unsettled weather that put a damper on scheduled trips and forced ’toggers to up the ante in favor of heavier weights to hold bottom. Southwest and Madison reefs saw better action as Kimberly began seeing fish, although getting there became a challenge for the smaller boats.
Wind also confronted the striped bass fishers as slickers became a necessary piece of gear. It didn’t matter much whether you fished from boat or shore. Either way, you got wet! Water temps dropped again, causing bass to stage in various parts of the tidal rivers while the surf and offshore reefs saw the typical fall intermittent action. Some linesiders were caught on live eels, some on jigs, and others using plugs.
Although the black sea bass season runs through the end of the year, it may be a challenge getting out to the deep reefs where fish from three- to five pounds are apt to be hiding. Planning a trip this time of year can be iffy. It’s best to just run out when a safe opportunity arises. Fishing with squid and jigs is still commanding hookups that result in quality fish for the table wrapped in, perhaps, some crab and Ritz cracker stuffing. Not bad for a little prelude to that fresh-roasted or smoked, hand-carved turkey.
Except for some limited action near any warm water outflows and a few migratory fish that may have gotten waylaid by the associated warm water temps, those visitors to the Sound like your albies, bones, and bluefish have said good-bye until next season. Seal watch, anyone?
There was improved trout and broodstock Atlantic salmon action as the holiday approached and anglers caught more breaks in the weather. The main rivers with the well-stocked Trout Management Areas received most of the attention as they caught the interest of fall fishers, some who had to reluctantly forgo the Sound’s seas. Other sweet water fisheries were slightly cooperative at best as the winds continued and temps dropped. However, as the holiday approached and weather moderated, fishing did get better in some of the lakes and ponds.
Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA 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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