Local fishing in the Long Beach Island area has been consistent recently according to the captains of the Beach Haven Charter Fishing Association. A nor’easter is currently hitting the area this first weekend of the summer but should be on its way out by Sunday.
The big news for the BHCFA is the start of the Junior Mate Training Program this Thursday, June 29, at the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club. The meeting begins at 7pm and parent attendance is mandatory the first class. The Junior Mates Program is open to youngsters interested in learning how to become a mate on a fishing boat who are thirteen by August 1, 2023. The program meets Thursday evenings and includes a variety of hands-on instruction.
Complete information can be found on the Junior Mate page at www.BHCFA.net or by calling either Captain Max Goldman at 609-384-3969 or Captain Nick Perello at 609-678-7141.
Captain Brett Taylor of “Reel Reaction Sportfishing” reports a little slowdown on fluke fishing following the recent moon phase. His last 5 charters boxed 19 keeper fluke while releasing some 80 shorts. He predicts the bite will rebound following the current northeast storm.
Captain Max Goldman reports the “Star Fish” has been finding a good bite of bottom fish on inshore structure of wrecks and reefs. He says it is a “good mix of shorts and keepers.”
Captain Steve Palmer notes the headboat “Miss Beach Haven” has been running regular trips and catching nice fluke along with keeper black sea bass. Sea bass is now closed until July 1 when reopening at one fish daily.
Captain Gary Dugan had a recent good day on the “Irish Jig.” After he found bay fishing for fluke a slow bite, he ran out to a wreck and had good fishing for black sea bass and a jumbo porgy.
Connor Smilon “Fish Hawk Charters” has been finding a decent bay bite for fluke and has had successful family trips ideal for youngsters just starting out fishing.