July 13, 2026 - 10:41:17
Over at River Bay Outfitters in Baldwin, Paul reported recent rains have brought much-needed higher flows to Long Island's rivers and streams, providing improved conditions for fly anglers, although some waters are running a bit off-color. Carp fishing on the fly continues to be one of the highlights of the summer, with fish actively cruising the shallows and eagerly taking well-presented nymphs and small baitfish patterns. The Housatonic River remains a solid option, with good smallmouth bass action on streamers, crayfish imitations, and topwater flies during the early morning and evening hours. Water temperatures throughout the Catskills continue to run too warm for responsible trout fishing, so anglers are encouraged to give those freestone streams a break until cooler weather returns. Instead, focus on cold-water tailwaters, where consistent releases are maintaining suitable temperatures and providing the best opportunity for trout fishing during the summer months.
July 13, 2026 - 10:41:11
Paul McCain from River Bay Outfitters in Baldwin let me know striped bass and small bluefish continue to be the primary focus for Long Island fly anglers, with the best action occurring during the early morning, late evening, and around moving tides. Schoolie bass remain active throughout the bays, inlets, and along the open beaches, while scattered small bluefish are providing exciting action and readily attacking baitfish patterns. Fly rodders are also enjoying excellent opportunities for fluke on the shallow flats, where Clouser Minnows and other bucktail-style flies continue to produce quality catches. While targeting fluke, anglers are also hooking into plenty of sea robins and the occasional small ray, adding variety and plenty of excitement to a day on the water. With warm summer conditions settling in, fishing during the cooler parts of the day and paying close attention to tidal movement will provide the best chances for success across Long Island's saltwater fishery.
July 06, 2026 - 10:31:52
Paul McCain from River Bay Outfitters in Baldwin reported saltwater fly fishing around Long Island continues to offer good opportunities for anglers willing to adjust their approach. Fluke fishing on the flats has been productive, although most of the fish being caught have been shorts. Striped bass action remains good out east, with the better fish being taken in deeper water on sinking lines. In my local area, the bass bite has become primarily a nighttime game, with the best success coming after dark. Big bluefish continue to be scarce, but there are plenty of smaller bay blues around to keep the rod bent and provide plenty of action between tides.
July 06, 2026 - 10:31:57
Over at River Bay Outfitters in Baldwin, I heard Paul is away in Montana this week. I think he is heading to the Yellowstone Ranch… but maybe not. He did call however to let me know the local scene has been a mixed bag this past week, but anglers are still finding success. River Bay Outfitters ran a trip to the Housatonic targeting smallmouth bass, and although the river was off color from recent conditions, everyone had a great time and enjoyed steady action. Charlie returned from the Farmington River saying he had one of his best outings of the season, with excellent fishing and plenty of quality trout. In the Catskills, trout fishing has largely come to an end due to the summer heat, with only the West Branch of the Delaware continuing to offer suitable conditions. On Long Island, the Connetquot remains your best bet during the early morning hours before water temperatures climb. Anglers looking for consistent action should also consider targeting warmwater species on local ponds or the Peconic, where bass and panfish continue to provide good summertime opportunities.
