After a period of cool water temperatures in Beach Haven, the winds have shifted, and warm water has returned. The captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association are finding a greatly improved fluke bite along with action on blues, kingfish, black sea bass, and tuna.
Captain Max Goldman of the “Star Fish” reports an improvement in fishing with black sea bass and fluke prevalent at their ocean structure hot spots. In addition, the inlet and bay waters are giving up cocktail sized bluefish among other species. He adds that the scenic trips on the “Star Fish” are resulting in some beautiful sunsets.
Captain Dave Wittenborn of “Captain Dave’s Charters” had a canyon trip recently with the Sullivan group. In addition to a pair of large yellowfin tuna in the 60-70-pound class, they picked up another two long-fin tuna. Captain Dave terms the canyon action as “heating up.”
Captain Gary Dugan had the “Irish Jig” out with Gary Wood and the boys recently. The action was good with three nice fluke going into the fish box until some hungry greenhead flies influenced the group to head in.
As usual, Captain Brett Taylor of “Reel Reaction Sportfishing” has been fishing almost every day including some days of two and three trips. He reports finding better action on fluke in the bay than the ocean although structure is giving up limits of sea bass, some ling, and a few keeper fluke. He is jigging some very shallow waters where he has found some very hungry fluke. He has been averaging 4-6 keepers per trip along with numerous throwbacks.
The BHCFA is looking forward to the 53rd annual Beach Haven White Marlin Invitational sponsored by the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club. Some BHCFA captains fish it while members of the Junior Mates Program are volunteering to help the event run smoothly. It is possible one or two of the BHCFA boats might be available for charter to fish in the tournament.