The fishing action for the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association has picked up a beat lately with the arrival of some nice bluefin tuna. These hard fighting fish, which provide some excellent eating, are being caught just 25-40 miles off the coast.
Captain Ray Lopez with the crew of the “Miss Liane” departed the dock at 2am in search of some of these tuna. Fishing inshore, the crew set up to troll at first light. Once the spread was set, the crew waited to hear the reels scream, and they sure did. Within 15 minutes of each other the crew had two bluefin in the boat and packed on ice.
Meanwhile, back inshore the summer flounder bite continues to be strong despite some days with strong winds. As is typical, the bulk of the fish fall short of the 18-inch minimum size, but with persistence, keepers are going into the coolers.
Captain Brett Taylor of Reel Reaction Sportfishing reports he had John Akey with his mom Janine on a 4-hour bay charter. This was Janine’s annual Mother’s day gift, if a bit belated. Despite what Captain Brett termed a slower bite, the two anglers were able to eke out some nice fish. The mom and son team boxed 4 keeper fluke to 7 pounds, along with close to 20 short fish. The big fish, measuring 27-inches, was caught by Janine and was her personal best.
It is not too late for youngsters who would like to participate in the BHCFA’s Junior Mate Program to get involved. The first session of the summer will be held Thursday, June 24, at the lower level of the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club. Start time is 7pm.
The Junior Mates Program is open to youngster who will reach the age of 12 by August 1, 2021. Information on the program can be found at the online link below or calling Lewis at 609-670-5980 or Captain Jimmy Zavacky at 609-915-2498.