Long Island’s inshore season officially hits its stride in early May, as porgy and fluke fisheries reopen and signal the true start of the warm-weather bite. Porgies (scup) kick things off on May 1, followed closely by the fluke opener on May 4—two dates that mark one of the most anticipated transitions of the fishing calendar.
For porgies, New York anglers can expect liberal limits right out of the gate. The season runs May 1 through December 31, with a 30-fish daily bag limit. Minimum size is 9.5 inches for shore-based anglers and private vessels, while those fishing aboard party or charter boats must meet an 11-inch minimum.
These fish will quickly stack up on local structure—rockpiles, mussel beds and reefs—making them a go-to target for both shore and boat anglers looking for steady action.
Fluke season follows on May 4, bringing with it one of the most popular fisheries in the region. New York regulations call for a 3-fish daily limit with a 19-inch minimum size, with the season split into two segments running from May 4 through mid-October.
Opening day fluking typically centers on back bay channels, creek mouths and shallow flats, where early fish stage as water temperatures begin to climb.
Beyond the fishing itself, opening week brings a noticeable shift across the Island. Party boats begin sailing full-time schedules, ramps and marinas fill up, and tackle shops see their first real surge of the season. It’s also a key overlap period, with striped bass still in play while bottom fishing options expand.
With strong bag limits, accessible fishing, and improving conditions, the porgy and fluke openers remain one of the most productive—and busiest—times of the year for Long Island anglers.
