As the fishing season transitions from the rush of fall to the quiet approach of winter, there is a marked change in the experience for anglers on Long Island. The scene shifts from crowded beaches and bustling marinas to quieter, reflective outings. The hustle and excitement of summer blitzes give way to a different kind of magic—one defined by solitude, patience, and a deep appreciation for the fishing. This shift, from the chaos of peak season to the calm of late fall, shows the changing vibe of November fishing and highlights why many seasoned anglers look forward to this time of the year.
Early fall fishing on Long Island is ttypically fast-paced action. Beaches and boats are filled with anglers, and the energy is high as word spreads about striped bass or bluefish blitzes. The good fishing brings with it a sense of community, camaraderie, and shared excitement. It’s not uncommon for anglers to line up shoulder to shoulder on popular stretches of beach, each one casting into the surf, working a tide.
The blitzes themselves are exciting. Birds dive frantically, baitfish scatter in an attempt to escape, and the water churns with the movement of predator fish in pursuit. The scene is electric, and there’s an urgency in every cast. The energy of fall fishing is unmatched, but as the weeks pass and the season shifts into late fall, that vibe changes.
By later November, the beaches that were once crowded with anglers have mostly emptied. The long lines at bait shops have disappeared, and the only sounds are the rhythmic crashing of the waves and the crisp rustle of wind through the dunes. For those who continue to fish through November, the experience becomes more personal and a calming kind of experience.
There’s a uniqueness in the feeling of late fall surf fishing. The the air sharper and the sunsets look a lot different to me. Without the noise of crowds, anglers can tune into their surroundings a lot better.
November fishing requires a different mindset and approach. The fish are still there, particularly striped bass making their way south, but their behavior changes as water temperatures drop. Late fall anglers know that success comes not from casting blindly into the surf but from carefully reading the water and understanding the patterns of fish movement.
With fewer baitfish close to shore, the blitzes are less frequent, and the action is less predictable. This is where patience becomes a great asset. Waiting through long stretches of quiet for the chance at a few fish is rewarding in itself. Lure choices also shift – topwater plugs that were a staple in warmer months typically change to jigs and soft plastics for me personally.
There’s something deeply satisfying about landing a fish during a chilly November morning or evening. The effort to brave the chill, fish the tides, and work a lure all comes together when a fish hits. These moments are often shared with only a handful of like-minded anglers, creating a quieter, more understated experience.
The transition from the hectic energy of early fall to the quiet of late November fishing serves as a reminder of the seasonal cycles that dictate the sport. It’s a time to appreciate the lessons learned during the peak season and to savor the last outings before winter forces most anglers indoors. November fishing is a balance of perseverance, respect for fishing, and the willingness to embrace the changing seasons.
In the end, the vibe of November fishing with its solitude, patience, and occasional hard-won success when a plan comes together makes it one of the most rewarding times of the year. It’s a month when anglers to slow down, pay attention, and find joy in the quieter side of things.
