Fishing report for 9/30/23

It has been a rough few weeks with the “beautiful weather”. Between the northeast winds, high tides, and screaming currents, fishing has been tough. Surprisingly, though, we still have a fishing report!

Tog fishing has been quite decent over the past few weeks. Greencrabs and Asian crabs have been the ticket. It seems like every pier and bridge has been holding fish. Granted, there are a lot of shorts, but if you put your work in, and you will be rewarded. Longport Bay jetty and the rock walls have been producing constant numbers as well.

Striper have been picking up. Back bays have been pretty steady, shockingly. Night time has been about the only time we are hearing plastic action. Seems to be all on 5 inch paddletails in pink or white. Top water action has been ok sunrise/sunset with poppers and walk the dogs. Also, we got a few reports of very good action up the Patcong Creek on lures. Bait should work too. Either clam or mullet would be best.

Bluefish finally started showing up just before the storms. We're still hearing of some in Corsons and around the bridges. Mainly on bait like mackerel, mullet, or bunker. Metals will work if you find clean water.

Surf fishing has been almost impossible. With an average surf of 5-7 feet that’s a hard task. It looks like Wednesday will be 3-4 feet and fishable!

Shout out to Matthew Myers for sending in these keepers he caught with his dad in longport!