Long Island, Metro NY - Long Island Surf Fishing Reports

I can safely say this is the hardest report I’ve ever and probably will have to do. As I mentioned in my east end report, senior editor of The Fisherman Magazine passed away on September 16th. Fred was a surfcaster at heart and this weekly report was special to him in so many ways. Back when I used to work at the tackle shop, I would look forward to seeing Fred’s name on the caller ID during weekends. I couldn’t wait to talk to the legend himself and let him know what I was doing in the surf almost every night. He would always have some sort of insight for what I told him. He was a book of knowledge and I took in every word he said. Fast forward to more recent times and I’m in a place I couldn’t even imagine being in back then. Fred showed me the ropes and has been a direct mentor to me for more than a year now. I wish that period of time was much longer but I’ll be forever grateful for the time I did spend with him this last year. My last fond memory of Fred in person was a trip to Montauk on a rainy overcast day. He said he was taking a ride out and I asked if could tag along. Fred had no problem whatsoever with that. We didn’t catch anything on that trip but from about 50 yards away I watched him lay off casts into the whitewater at North Bar—a place where he cut his teeth in fishing. The man was at peace. While we didn’t catch anything, he was happy to be doing what he loved. I’m happy that’s the way I’ll remember my last time with Fred. Fire Island National Seashore (FINS) Recreational Driving Permits are available now. As was done last fall, payment for the 4x4 permit must be done online at Pay.gov. The fee for the recreational driving permit is $50. Once you pay online, you can pick up your permit in-person at the Wilderness Visitor Center (foot of William Floyd Parkway) with proof of payment, valid driver's license, vehicle registration, vehicle to be permitted, and a current marine fishing registry.