Long Island Video Fishing Forecast - March 18, 2021 - The Fisherman

Long Island Video Fishing Forecast – March 18, 2021

WEEKEND FISHING OUTLOOK – CIRCLE HOOK REGS AMENDED

Managing editor Matt Broderick has an update on the local fishing scene, with offshore wrecks showing more signs of life, and lakes and ponds receiving their first stockings of trout this week. Senior editor Fred Golofaro has the latest update on changes to the circle hook striped bass regulations, along with a reminder that the March 31 deadline for acquiring state park fishing permits is fast approaching, as well as how to get it done.

At Tuesday’s ASMFC meeting, following the public comment period on the use of non-offset circle hooks when fishing for striped bass with bait, the regulation was amended to read: Circle hooks are required when fishing for striped bass with bait, which is defined as any marine or aquatic organism live or dead, whole or parts thereof. This shall not apply to any artificial lure with bait attached. This brings the regulation in line with its original intent and means that bucktails with a trailer, eel skin plugs and tube and worm rigs do not require a circle hook. The new regulation is expected to be adopted by NY by the opening of striped bass season – April 1 on the Hudson River above the GW Bridge and April 15 in all other waters.