As the calendar turns to December, the waters off Block Island enter a transformation. With colder temperatures setting in, many inshore species have moved offshore, leaving only the cold-weather fish in the rock-strewn areas. This is where “The Apple Tree” spot, roughly 4.5 miles south of Block Island, comes into play. Known among seasoned anglers, The Apple Tree lies along the western edge of Sharks Ledge, at coordinates roughly 41°04.09’N and 71°30.56’W, and is an ideal location for winter out of Montauk fishing. The rocky terrain is made up of ledges, crevices, and boulders, creates a perfect environment for blackfish, sea bass.
The waters here range from 80 to over 120 feet. The area is known for strong tidal currents and unpredictable weather, making it crucial for anglers to monitor conditions closely before heading out. A calm day with minimal wind is ideal, allowing you to take full advantage of what could be the last few fishing opportunities before winter storms close the window on the season. Having a reliable depth sounder and chart plotter can make all the difference in pinpointing the structure where fish congregate, ensuring a productive trip.
The main attraction at the Apple Tree in December is blackfish. Fishing for blackfish here demands patience, as these fish are notorious for their light, tentative bites. Using a medium-heavy conventional rod with a sturdy reel spooled with 30 to 40-pound braided line provides the strength and sensitivity needed to detect bites and pull fish from the rocky structure. If you want to try using a jig around slack, 20-pound braid would be a better choice.
The best bait for blackfish remains green crabs or white crabs. I’ve done well with hermits here as well. Anchoring directly over rocky structures is essential, as blackfish rarely stray far from their hiding spots. When fishing, it’s often best to give the fish a moment before setting the hook, as they tend to nibble before fully committing to the bait. If you’re fishing a private boat with Spot Lock, that makes the task even easier.
While blackfish might be the primary target, The Apple Tree is also home to healthy populations of sea bass in December. These aggressive feeders often occupy the same rocky habitats as blackfish but can be found at slightly deeper depths, too. Sea bass are less selective in their feeding, which can result in fast-paced action once you find them. Squid strips, clam bellies, or even crabs intended for tog work and if the bite slows, jigging is another way to catch some jumbos.
As an added bonus, The Apple Tree spot offers the chance to catch cod, especially as the month progresses. These fish move into deeper waters off Block Island, searching for crustaceans and smaller fish to feed on. Cod tend to inhabit the deeper edges of the rocky structures, making them an excellent target while fishing for blackfish and sea bass. A standard cod rig, baited with fresh clams, squid, or the crabs tend to work best. Drifting over the deeper parts of The Apple Tree can be effective, as cod are often found in the sandy patches adjacent to the rockier areas.
Fishing at The Apple Tree in December requires careful preparation. Anchoring is crucial to staying positioned over the structure, where the fish are likely to be concentrated. The cold December air and frigid water temperatures also mean that hypothermia is a real risk, so dressing in layers and wearing a PFD is essential for safety on a private boat. Additionally, making sure your boat is equipped with the necessary safety gear, such as life jackets, flares, and a functioning radio, is non-negotiable during this time of year.
The best times to fish at The Apple Tree are during slack tides when the currents slow down, making it easier to keep your bait in the strike zone. With the right conditions, December can be one of the most rewarding months for targeting blackfish, sea bass, and cod in the waters off Block Island. Though the cold can be a deterrent, those willing to brave it can be rewarded with some of the best bottom fishing of the year. Remember, this time of the year the conditions can change quickly so hopping aboard one of Montauk’s head or charterboats is the best and safest option to getting in on fishing this hot spot during the month.
