Charlie's Bait N Tackle

Pete at Charlie’s Bait & Tackle said the past week delivered some excellent surf fishing, with plenty of big bass cruising the beaches and crushing a variety of plugs. Bunker, jointed baits, and other offerings all produced well. Friday’s rain put a damper on the action, but anglers managed to pick away at stripers throughout the weekend, although the larger fish were noticeably less abundant. It appears the bunker weren't making their way over the bar, despite plenty of baitfish holding offshore. Reports of larger bass continue to come in from farther north near Sandy Hook, keeping hopes high for a stronger bite in the coming week. The canal is also holding some stripers, with live eels and fresh bunker producing fish. Right now, it's one of the best bets for anglers looking to put a keeper in the cooler. The shop is also gearing up for its annual Surf Turkey Tournament!

Pete at Charlie’s Bait & Tackle reported schools of bunker moving down the beach, with surf anglers picking away at striped bass during the morning hours and again just before dark. Chunked bunker has been producing well, along with plugs and metal-lip swimmers. Boat anglers are also finding success trolling or working large shads. The canal is holding some tog, although keeper numbers have been a bit lower. Green crabs and shrimp are producing for bottom fishermen, with tog also being caught near the railroad bridge on green crabs. Meanwhile, nighttime striper action is developing in the river, where live eels have been getting the job done.