Deal Surf Report 9/30

Fished from 6:00am -730am today in Deal. No wind to speak of,  last hour of the incoming tide and overcast. I used the fly rod and snake fly from the beach. Saw some bait, mostly rainfish and a pod of mullet.
The fluke were jumping clear out of the water. Unbelievable. The bottom must be paved with them.

Anyway got "leap frogged" while making my way down to "the hot spot". That fisherman wound up with a nice keeper bass that looked at least 30 inches. He was nice to ask if I wanted it but I declined.

I also saw many fluke being caught, small bonito, or spanish mackerel flying out of the water from time to time. Today was not my day for catching but it was good to get out and give it a try.

Leif    

Deal Surf Report 9/26 Outstanding!!

Fished the usual stretch today with an all star cast, Bill Malcolm, Ben Green, his dad and son Leif. There were a couple of regulars down there too. We all fished metal today from the beach and fished from 6am-7:15am.

It was a nice morning with a moderate ENE breeze, out going tide and clear conditions. Much better than expected or forecasted. No visible bait in the surf.

Leif (son) out fished us all today. Two bass up to 27 inches

It wasn't long before Leif was hooked up in the wash. He was using a 2oz diamond jig with a green tube and teaser rig that he tied. The first fish was a nice fat 26 incher that took the teaser.

After landing that one he decided to move down the stretch a bit and nailed another on the jig just before it got too light. This fish was just short and we let it go.
A good time was had by all and a nice breakfast after fishing.

Leif

Deal Surf Report 9/24 "Pretty Quiet"

Hit the usual stretch around 6am-7am. Dead low and a slight SSW wind and cloudy. I fished a metal with teaser to get beyond the bars and breakers on the low tide. As it was getting lighter I switched to a red and white pencil popper. No hits on either lure. Saw a little rain fish and a bunch of what looked like Pilot Whales. They were paired up and headed South. Must have been about 10 or 12 of them.


It was good to get out and see what that area looked like at dead low. I found some new bars and holes in the area that I was unaware of. I look forward to fishing this spot again in better conditions. Hopefully Saturday will be a good day with the cold front moving in on Friday.

Leif

Deal Surf Report 9/22 BASS BLUES FLUKE

Deal Surf Report 9/22 BASS BLUES FLUKE

Had a little company today in the secret spot. Nice morning with barely any wind and warm. Decided to use the spinning rod today. Fished from 6-7am again and had lot's of action.

I used the pencil popper to illicit quite a few hits with Stripers jumping clear out of the water. After missing all three hits on the popper I gave in and used the Metal. I had an immediate hook up and after a short battle the fish was gone. Had a lot of hits on metal and caught one small blue which I released. Also caught a nice Fluke on the green tube.

All in all a nice morning.

Leif

Cod Chowder

Leif's Famous Cod Chowder

Makes about 3qts of stock.

For the stock cover ingredients below with salted water (1-2 tablespoons of sea salt) In 6-8 qt stock pot

1 6-8 lb cod rack and head.(no guts)

1 bag of soup greens (parsnips,celery carrot,dill parsely ect)

1 Medium Yellow Onion

Cover with salted water boil(simmer) for 2 1/2 hours
when done strain off over cheese cloth in another pot.
Discard remains.

MAKE THE CHOWDER
6 strips of bacon (cut in 1/2 in pieces)
2 lb-1 1/2 cod filets cut in 1/2 in-1 in chunks
1 cup of white wine (any)
1 cup of heavy cream (MIX THE SOUR CREAM WITH THE CREAM)
1 pint of sour cream (this is the trick)
6 youkon gold potatoes 1/2 in chunks)
1 lg yellow onion (Diced not too small)
6 stalks of celery (1/2 peices)

In a large sauce pan or 8qt stock pot cook the bacon when crispy remove from pan put on paper towels. set aside.
Leave 2-3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan or pot.
Cook the onions till translucent don't brown too much. (5minutes)
When onions are done add the cream wine sour cream potatoes and celery and fish stock.
Bring to a boil and simmer (15-20 minutes)
Add Cod chunks..Bring to a boil and shut off. You are done.
Serve with Bacon on top and chopped parsely. Salt Pepper. ENJOY!!

You can sub low fat sour cream and milk, turkey bacon ect if you can't eat the fatty ingredients. I only have it once or twice a year so here's how I like it.
You can also use clam broth or chicken broth if you don't want to bother with the stock.
Also you can throw in a small bag of frozen corn if you like and sometimes I use carrots.

Leif

Deal Surf Report 9/19 Fly Rod Keeper!!

Well couldn't ask for a nicer morning at the beach. Light NW and clear conditions. There is still good "wave action" but not enough to prevent fly fishing off the surf.


I fished from 5:45am-7:00am with my fly rod and famous white snake fly.

The fish were right in the wash and before long I had my first fish at 26.5 inches. He exploded on the fly and gave me a nice battle for that sized fish.

A few more casts to some "disturbed" looking water and another explosive boil on the top water snake fly. This fish fought even harder and went right into the backing. This fish was just shy of 29 inches and I kept him.
As it got lighter I had one more boil and hook-up but it escaped.

There were small blues and many fluke in the wash as well. Ben and his Dad fished the same area and caught one bluefish and many fluke on metal. They were still fishing when I left at 7:00. Leif slept in today!! Oh well I guess he'll see the pictures.



In case you missed it here's how to do it. Nothing better than catching a Striper on a fly, especially one you tied!!

http://www.njfishing.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15463

Leif

Deal Surf Report 9/18 NICE!!!

Deal Surf Report 9/18 NICE!!!

Nice morning again on the old stomping grounds. Rolling surf and a few birds dipping.

I fished from 6am-7am and used a 3oz diamond jig with a green tube on a my famous teaser rig. The surf was rolling but not much wind.

The first fish was a 27in Striper that went for the tube tail. A man walking his dogs was nice enough to offer to take a picture so, since I am not camera shy I accepted.

Next was a 3lb pound Blue that I kept. I had other bumps lost another and then got a solid hook up further out just as I started reeling. It was a 29incher and I kept her for the first pot of chowder. She took the teaser.
Took a few more casts but wanted to get home in time to show Leif before he got on the bus. He was jealous to say the least!

Fly fishing for Stripers from the surf and jetties

Fly fishing for Stripers

Striped Bass were made to be caught on a fly. Their feeding patterns and close proximity to the shore line and Jetties make them accessible, even to the novice angler. If you have fly-fished for trout and other species you have a slight advantage but with today’s equipment and advancements anyone who likes to fish for Stripers can be a pro in no time. The trick is to keep it simple and with a little practice you will be on your way.

In this post I will attempt to dispel some myths associated with Saltwater Fly-fishing for Stripers, provide simple information on how to get started in the sport including the four flies that will cover most situations. The post will primarily deal with surf and jetty fishing situations. Again feel free to comment.

This post is primarily directed to those who may be interested in getting started in saltwater fly fishing and to give some perspective and general information on the sport.

Myths

“Fly fishing for stripers is light tackle fishing”

While this can be true in some cases, The rods and reels manufactured now are capable of handling fish up to a hundred pounds or more yet are very light due to advancements in technology, the use of thermoplastic resins, graphite, aircraft grade aluminum and impressive drag systems.

“It is an expensive sport”

Again, while it can be, you can have a good set up (rod, reel, and line) for Stripers and Blues for under $400.00. Not cheap but in comparison to some spinning and conventional equipment I’ve seen lately, not bad.

“It’s too complicated”

With the advancements in loop to loop connections, no knot systems and a little research and practice, you will only have to change leaders, tie standard knots and change a shooting head (Fly line for different situations like floating or sinking line)

“I can’t cast far enough to catch fish”

Most fish I have caught have been right in the wash in the “gully” or along a jetty. A thirty to forty foot cast is all you need. Having out fished others using live bait and plugs, I have to say this may be more effective than other standard methods of catching Striped Bass.

What you will need

One mistake that fisherman do when undertaking the sport is to purchase a rod that is too light. If you fish for stripers, especially from the surf you need a rod that will be able to punch out large flies in wind, turn big fish take a beating. Leave the 8-9 weight rods home. They will work in dead calm conditions. I do own them but only use them occasionally for smaller fish at the end of the season.

Rod, reel, line and leader

I use a nine ft Orvis 11 weight rod with 12 weight shooting heads. I also use a Lamson fly reel capable of holding 300 yards of 30# Dacron or gel spun backing, a 100ft of running line and 28ft for the shooting head.( I use Floating or Intermediate)

There are many manufactures, do some research and buy the best rod you can afford. For the surf and jetty I would not go lower than a fast action 10 weight rod and use an appropriately matched reel.

For the leader I use a four foot piece of 50-60lb mono leader with a perfection loop in each end. Attached to that is a four foot piece of 17-20lb fluorocarbon leader, perfection loop to the butt.

This may seem like over-kill (it is a Tarpon rod) but make no mistake, a five pound bass is still a thrill on this rod. You will be able to fish in most conditions when you need to and when that cow starts heading for the rocks; you can put the heat on.

am not out to have “fun” with the fish. I want to land them as quick as possible and keep it if it is a keeper or let it go if unharmed if I choose.

Waders, Korkers, (Cleats) and Striping basket

If you already have a good pair of waders and carbide tipped cleats, you are set. All you need is an adjustable wading belt and a striping basket to “catch” the line as you strip it in. Use one with molded cones so the running line tangles less.

Striper Flies

Over the last twenty years I have tied many flies and have tried them all. I have found the following flies to be the most effective at the time listed next to them. If you do a search on any of these flies you will find images and information on how to tie them or where to buy them.

1) Popovick’s Spread Fly          2/0-4/0 Herring imitation     Spring May-June

     Cast up current or into wave alongside the jetty

2)Lou Tabory’s Snake Fly       2/0-3/0 Mullet imitation      Fall Sept-Jan

   Especially productive during the mullet run near the corners of the jetty or wash. Let the current /wave
   action work the fly.

3) Lefty’s Deceiver                  2/0-4/0 General Small Baitfish Spring May-June

     Best color is chartreuse/white, fish in the corners near the beach in spring and late fall.

4) Bob Clouser’s Minnow        1/0-3/0          Spring and Fall

     The weighted head gives this fly a jigging action that imitates an injured baitfish.

Each fly is fished differently. What makes them so productive is their ability to appear natural when fished and presented in the Striper’s feeding lane.

Use floating line for the Snake fly and intermediate for the rest as a general rule.

Earlier in the spring a sinking line may be more effective. Experiment!!!

Most retailers, either on-line of brick and mortar will generally be helpful or “put together” an outfit for you based on your budget and experience. They will also put the backing, running line and fly line on the reel for you at purchase.

Hope this was helpful.

Give it a try and good luck,

Leif

Deal Surf Report 9/16

Deal Surf Report 9/16

Fished from 6-7 today between Roosevelt Ave and Conover Pavilion. It was high tide today at Deal. Nice North wind at 10 knots or so and overcast. I worked a pencil popper to no avail. Usually this time of year you can raise something but not today. Looks like things are a little late this year.

Fishing the jetty with a swimming plug may be a better option until the mullet show.

I did see a little bait(rainfish) and a couple of birds dipping.

Leif

Leif's Famous Fish Cakes

Makes about 36 Cakes.

You can use Cod, Ling Albacore tuna, Striped bass, Bluefish(dark meat removed) also. The best cakes are those that use a combination of fish.

It is a combination of an old recipe and some new ideas. They seem to go over well.

 Ingredients

3-4 lbs Cod

3 eggs
1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned Bread crumbs
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/4 cup real mayo
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
¼ cup olive oil
1 cup Canola/Vegetable oil for frying
2 tablespoons kosher salt to salt water when boiling fish

 Spices

1/4 tablespoon celery salt

1/4 tablespoon black pepper
2 ground bay leaves
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard seeds
2 ground cloves
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoon dry parsley

Vegetables

 5 Stalks of celery

1 Red pepper
1 Yellow pepper
1 Green pepper
1 lg Sweet onion
4 Carrots
1 cup frozen corn

 Directions

• Boil Cod in salted water till done, 15-20 minutes at the most and drain (Get water w/kosher salt boiling before you put in the cod)
• Chop all vegetables except corn
• Pour olive oil in pan, heat pan and cook all vegetables until med soft; about 15 minutes add corn the last 5   minutes. Set aside. Let cool.
• Add all spices to vegetables, mix well
• Beat eggs, mayo, mustard in a bowl
• In a large bowl add all vegetables, egg mixture to fish and mix well, breaking up the fish.
• Add Bread crumbs and potatoes until it is a paste like consistency
• Form into 1/3 cup size cakes and fry in Canola oil. Drain cakes on paper towel and serve with tartar sauce.

Smoked Fish

Having noticed and increased interest in smoking fish I thought I would provide a simple recipe. There are so many different methods, brines, smokers ect. and it can be confusing. Here is a simple recipe that HOT SMOKES any fish on your standard Gas BBQ grill.

I have provided a simple brine solution and what you need and how to smoke fish on your grill at home. In this case we are smoking fillets but you can use whole fish(smaller) or split fish with the bones in it.
Get a cast iron smoke box at Home Depot or other retailer
Buy a bag of chips for smoking. I like Apple for fish but you can use any chips. I often see hickory chips in the stores and is always available.

 Brine solution

 2 quarts water

1cup kosher salt
1 1/4 cup brown sugar
3 bay leaves
6 lbs of ling, blue, bass, ect... fillets
After rinsing the fish pat dry.
Place fish in a glass shallow container
Pour brine over fish
Cover and refrigerate  3-10 hours
Drain fish rince in cold water well
Let fish dry on a rack for an hour or two (don't skip this part)

 Brush fish with olive oil or spray with Pam olive oil spray.

Spray smoker rack(grill rack with pam)
At this point you may coat with seasoning as well some use..Old Bay, Pepper, Paprika ect.
Now smoke them with your favorite chips.

 Smoking instructions

 Soak the chips(enough to fit in the smoke box) for at least a half hour in hot water.

• Put the chips in the smoke box and directly on top of burner or coals. keep grill on high until the box starts to smoke. 15-30 minutes.
• Turn grill to lowest setting.
• Spray fish and grill racks with Pam again
• Place fish on top rack of grill or turn off one side of the grill and place fish on opposite side of smoke box.
• Keep covered and smoke for about 30 min to 2 hours depending on the temperature of the grill thickness of fish and preference of doneness. Keep checking as to not over cook the fish.

Shark River Grand Slam!!

Well Leif's soccer game was canceled due to the rain. The surf was too rough and dirty so off to Shark River inlet.

We caught many Fluke on bergal strips and spearing, Porgies and Sea Bass and Blackfish on worms. I caught a giant Stargazer on a worm and bergal combo. It had to be six pounds. All fish were released except the keeper Porgy.

Total for a few hours was.

10 Fluke
1 stargazer
19 Sea bass
6 Blackfish
2 Porgies
6 Bergals
 
Leif

Spicy Blackened Skipjack

Skipjack tuna is a tasty fish when handled and prepared correctly. After catching bleed the fish and ice immediately. Fillet like any other tuna, removing the dark "blood line" of the fish. You will have four small loins when you are done.
I like to steak the little loins as shown in the photo. They come out like little medallions.
This small tuna is an important commercial and game fish, usually caught using purse seine nets, and is sold fresh, frozen, canned, dried, salted, and smoked.

Ingredients

1 2lb Skipjack medallions
1 package of your favorite spicy fish rub/cajun seasoning
1/2 stick of butter
1 Lemon

Directions
Coat Skipjack with seasoning
Heat large skillet with butter until smoking hot
Place fish in pan with tongs(watch out for the splatter)
Cook 1 minute on each side
Squeeze lemon on fish and serve
Enjoy

Deal Surf Report 9/11

Deal Surf Report 09/11


Just kidding!

No real fishing report today. Slept in. Looks like it's going to be a few days before the winds calm. The winds will switch to the South tonight and then North West by Saturday. That and a couple of tide changes should set the stage for better conditions on Monday.

There were a few reports of bass being caught before this storm. This should get things going.

Deal Surf Report 9/10

Deal Surf Report 9/10

Hit the Deal surf today for about 45 minutes from 6-6:45. As expected dirty water, low tide and that NE made fishing tough. It will be a few days before anythin good happens in that area. I worked a metal with green tube in any event.
This NE has caused quite a bit of erosion over the last week. Looks like a couple feet of beach is gone.
You never know....

Should be good after this blow.

A few pictures.

Leif

Surf Fishing Made Simple

Surf fishing Made Simple

Well September is here and the surf fishing should be heating up. I like to "kick it off" with the Mullet run which starts around the second or third week of September.

This is my favorite time of year and I look forward to the cooler mornings and evenings ahead.

I am also looking forward to have the opportunity to catch Striped Bass, Bluefish, Little Tunny, Spanish Mackerel, and Little Tunny from the surf and Jetties in Monmouth County.

The following post provide some basic information and tips on surf fishing with artificial lures (Plugs, Poppers, Metal, ect) for the above species along Monmouth county beaches. I hope this is helpful and feel free to comment as usual. I still don’t know it all. This post is intended to help people that may be interested or new to surf fishing in the area.

When and Where

Although fish can be caught anytime of year along the beach my favorite time is in late summer fall and early winter. September through December. (My son and I have caught many Bass in January and February as well, but the fish tend to be smaller.

I fish during a Northwest, Northeast, East and North winds at any speed. I do not like South/ South East winds for surf fishing. The water gets dirty and cold due to up-welling and I find it to be unproductive.

Some will argue, but I will fish on any tide. As my dad used to say when I would complain about the low tide…..”They’re not too tall”

I fish a half hour to hour before and after sunrise and the same at sunset. During the fall you can catch them anytime but the most productive time seem to be right before it gets dark or right before it gets light.

There are many spots to fish along the shore in Monmouth County. You can fish Sandy Hook, Monmouth beach, Long Branch, Deal Asbury Ocean Grove and so on.

There are several Beach access points in each town. Sandy hook and several parking areas. I use parking lot 2 if I fish the hook. I fish in the Deal and Allenhurst area and I have to say there are no bad fishing spots.

What I would say is don’t drive around “looking” for fish. Find a stretch or beach and start fishing. You don’t have to see them for the fish to be there. In other words spend more time fishing and you will be more successful.


What you will need


1) Rod

A 7-9 1/2 foot Medium action rod rated for 15-25lb test. I use a 9 1/2 foot Lamiglass Fiberglass rod and Old Penn 650ssm or 750ssm reel.

Tip You don't need a 11ft rod to cast a mile in this area. Most fish are caught right in the wash or next to the jetty. I use a smaller rod on calm days and a larger rod with bigger reel on rough or windy days.

2) Reel

Skirted spool reel capable of holding 250yds of 15-20lb test.
There are so many brands out there that fill this requirement. I use the Penn as a "reference", you can go up or down in cost from here. Van Stall, Diawa and Finor also make some great high end reels.

I have been using the reel pictured below for at least 20 yrs and with minor repairs now and then it works fine.

Tip: Do not drop your reel in the sand or rinse in the surf. Always rinse your reel and rod off with fresh water when you get home and it will last much longer.

3) Line

I use 17-20 pound test mono. I like Ande and Trilene XL in the colder weather because it is softer and does not stiffen up in cold conditions.
For braid I use 30-50lb Power Pro. Again, there are many brands available so use your favorite.

note: I do not like braid when using Pencil Poppers. The braid tends to "drop" down the spool when imparting the popping action. This may cause a tangle. I also prefer mono in rough surf conditions as it acts as a shock absorber resulting in less fish lost.

Tip: Tie a 50lb 12-18in shock leader to your braid using a Albright or Blood Knot. It will hold up against the sharp gill plates of Stripers and act as a shock absorber.

4) Waders

Waders have improved so much over the years. Breathable materials make them lighter and more comfortable than ever. I use the breathable "boot foot" chest waders with a belt for safety. Cabealas, Orvis and others sell them. I use both.

Tip: Wear appropriate weight "Polar fleece" under the waders for extra comfort. AND ALWAYS WEAR A BELT FOR SAFTEY.

Tip: Creepers, Corkers (Cleats) are not required for fishing from the sand but a necessity when fishing from the rocks. The tie on cleats will come off in the surf so watch out! Some brands come with Velcro straps; these may be a better choice.

5) Lures

"Match the Hatch" as they say!
I have narrowed down the lures that I bring to the surf with me. Think high, medium and low. I use a teaser rig when using metal and plugs. Poppers get a 12-18in shock leader.

High: Poppers surface lures in the 8in and six in. I use Pencil poppers a lot and when the mullet are in, the smaller size one can be deadly. Vary your retrieve and work that popper right to the sand. Often a Striper will hit right in the wash at your feet.

Tip: Small red and white pencil poppers are deadly on Little tunny. Use a fast popping retrieve when they invade and hold on!!

Medium: Swimming plugs like the bomber lures A-Salt or yo-zuri Crystal minnow work well. Reel faster to get down a little further, slower to stay closer to the surface. These lures seem to work best when you reel very slowly.

Tip: Again, reel the plug right up to the sand, use with a 30-50lb "teaser rig"
When the waves or current pulls on the plug, stop reeling and let the wave/current action do the work. You will often get a hit as this bait is holding in the current. Bring two sizes and two colors, Black at night or low light in the evening and White in the Morning.

Low: Metal lures, Hopkins, Kastmaster, or my favorite, 2-3 oz diamond jig with a green tail. These often work best in rough surf and when the fish are feeding on sand eels. Cast to diving birds, let it sink and start reeling moderately fast. Often you will get a fish on as soon as you start reeling.

Tip: Don't let heavy surf stop you from fishing. A hard dry Northeast can be just the thing to turn on the Striped Bass. Even if it looks "un-fishable" give it a try. You will be surprised. It is like a playground for those "broom tail" bass.

Also bring some small metals with you. Often Spanish Mackerel,  Cero Mackerel and Bonito will invade the surf in September and October. I have caught them on an off through the years and they can be a nice surprise.

Tip: Tie the metal right to the line (no leader) and reel fast.
Well I hope this was helpful. Hopefully we will have a good fall and catch lots of fish.

Don't forget a knife to bleed the fish, small light and cloth tape measure!


Good Luck,

Leif

Shark River Mixed Bag

Fished with son Leif, his friend Ben and father Tony this morning at Shark River 6:30-11:00.

Leif and I started by ourselves near the Headliner catching snappers and seabass. Leif called Ben and he was already fishing with his dad by the inlet. Ben reported that they were catching 3-4lb Blues and we headed over around 7:00am.
Sure enough the blues were crashing metal and blitzing bait in little pods and the boys wound up with two each.
We switched over to bottom with worms, bergal strips and bailed the short sea bass, cunner and one blackfish.
The highlight was Bens nice Trigger and Leifs 21in Fluke, Both released.

A good time was had by all.

Leif

Blues at Allenhurst Jetty

Went to the beach club today with the family and friends so I brought a couple of rods with us. Tried to be sociable for a half hour or so then hit the Jetty with Leif and his friend Ben.
A Northeast wind was blowing at 20 and waves coming over the jetty. We saw some birds diving and started firing some 3oz jigs with green tails at them. Got one nice 4-5 lb blue. By the time I got the boys set up for them they were gone.

Leif filleted the fish nicely when we got home.

It's going to be good in the surf this fall!


Leif

Bluefishing "HOT" at the Mud Dump

Last night I ventured out with my son Leif and his friend Ben Green on the Norma K III. It was the 7:30-1:00am night Blues trip and it was well worth it. It took about an hour and a half to get to the grounds but didn't take long for the Blues to come around the boat. Several hook-ups were common at a time.

This was Ben's (age 13) first time out night Bluefishing so it was an exciting time. Ben caught 6 of the Blues up to 12 pounds and lost several others. Leif had 6 as well. I had 5 of the choppers. Nice night to be out on the water. Fishing should be good through October.

Leif

Leif Lands Little Tunny and Skipjack

From Al Ristori Blog today.....

Leif Eric Pettersen lost a tuna during a recent trip aboard Jamaica Princess from Point Pleasant, but got into lots of skipjacks that he cooked, and found to be very good eating. I don't know why many anglers think skipjacks aren't worth keeping. They are a little softer than other tunas, and should be iced down, but make a fine tuna salad. Indeed, that's what you usually get in a can of chunk light tuna.

Some fishermen confuse them with little tunny (false albacore), which require soaking in cold brine or milk before cooking in order to get all the blood out of them. Skipjacks are the only tuna with stripes on the belly, while little tunny have wavy, mackerel-like markings on their back and several spots around the pectoral fins. Little tunny and cownose rays were also caught during that trip.

Blackened Bluefish over grilled Peppers with Mashed Cauliflower

Blackened Bluefish over grilled Peppers with Mashed Cauliflower

2 Large Bluefish loins (Dark meat removed)
1 Tsp. Fresh ground Black Pepper
Cayan pepper
Sea Salt
Paprika
OR
(Favorite Cajun seasoning)

1 head Cauliflower
1/4 cup milk
2 lg pats butter
white pepper

1 lg Green Bell Pepper
1 Lg Red Bell Pepper

Fish
Rinse fish in Kosher salt and dry well
Cut each loin in half to make four pieces
Coat each side with fresh ground pepper, paprika and a little salt
Set aside on plate till room temperature
Pre-heat a large non-stick pan so it is Smoking hot.
Add butter.
Place fish in HOT pan and sear 2-3 minutes on each side


Cauliflower
Cut all green off Cauliflower and cook in Microwave or Covered pot with water until soft.
When done drain off all water and leave uncovered
Add milk, butter and white pepper to taste
Mash with potato masher till consistency or mashed potatoes
Set aside

Peppers
Cut pepper in to strips as shown in photo
You can grill these on a traditional grill or a quick way is to put them directly on the gas burner.(Quick and easy but... BE CAREFUL! ) Don't over cook!

Enjoy,

Leif

Wreck fishing Tips

20-40 "Wreckommendations", Tips, Ect.

Recently I have had quite a few PM's and e-mails regarding the 20-40 mile Wreck trips. In an effort to make these trips more productive, I put a post together of specific recommendations for these 20-40 wreck trips. I have a few strategies and tips that I think would greatly improve the catches on this type of trip.

Using the appropriate equipment, adjusting strategies and having realistic expectations for these trips can make them more enjoyable and productive. Don't give up!!

These recommendations are directed toward those who have not made this type of trip, do not know what to do and would like to try it. Also to those who have not fished for a while and anyone else that wants to listen. I typically fish for Cod on these trips and use larger 7/0-8/0 hooks.

You can take advantage of all species by considering the following recommendations:

PREPARATION IS KEY:

Proper rod and reel

20-50lb 7ft rod equiped with a suitable reel like a Penn Jigmaster or 4/0 sized reel loaded with new 30-40lb mono or 65lb braid.

Do not bring a traditional spinning outfit on these trips. You are wasting your time and others. The exceptions are the new "hightech" rods and reels which are small, light and very strong and expensive)

Cod rigs:

High /Low 2 hook Cod rig 80lb leader 7/0 Gamakatsu Octopus hooks on 6in dropper loops.(The Cod rig I posted works as well but some people are having a hard time with the swivel attachment) I use 6 inch pink curly tail teasers on the hook or 4-6" Pink Tsunami Squids or Pink or red 3-4 inch skirts

Pollock rigs:

10-12 oz Jigs tied on 80lb leader with a tube type teaser tied 2 feet above on a 6 inch dropper or tied in with 2 clinch knots. (Some nice pollock have been caught on bait as well on the high hook using squid or clam.) Use the same type of Cod rig, but with just one hook tied 4 ft above the sinker and try a whole Squid.

Ling rigs:

One 1/0-3/0 snelled Gamakatsu Circle Hook tied on 10in of 50lb test right above the sinker. Use small baits!! Just the string part of the clam or siphon part. You WILL catch lots of ling if they are there.

Cod /Pollock/ ling rigs (everything rig)

This rig will give you the best shot at whats out there. This may be the most productive rig for this type of trip. Simply a 2 hook rig tied on 60lb-80lb leader material. One 7/0 Gamakatsu or other very sharp hook tied on a 6in dropper with choice of teaser 3-4 feet above the sinker. The second hook is a Gamakatsu or similar 2/0-3/0 Circle hook with a small piece of clam on it. (Strings or siphon or small strip) The High hook will catch Cod or Pollock. The small hook will catch ling. If the small hook gets stuck pull hard and it will bend out. Also circle hooks seem to get stuck less and the ling will hook themselves. The small bait insures the ling will suck it in and get hooked.

I noticed the guys that caught a varitey of fish were using a rig similar to the one above. Because you never know what your going to get, this may be a good choice. You can change the rig by using 3/0-5/0 hooks as well. This way you have a better chance to land a cod if you get one on the bottom hook but may increase your odds of getting stuck as well.

Sinkers

I use 8-20oz Bank or Flat on these trips. Mostly 10-14oz. I have been using the flat sinkers on the last three trips and only lost one. That includes the kids as well. It may be a coincidence but I like the flats sinkers.

Tips

1) If the Dogfish are around and you can't deal with them take off the teaser or just fish the bottom hook and use clam only.

2) Prepare in advance. Have all your rigs ready and organized seperately. I use little zip-lock bags so the rigs don't tangle. Check your reel, line rod, ect. Properly functioning equipment saves time and makes the trip more enjoyable.

3) Check the weather, moon, overall forecast and dress appropriately. Full moon, new moon= in most cases stronger current and requires heavier sinkers.

4) Ask questions, the mates will be glad to explain and help if you ask. They are here to help. If you don't ask you won't get an answer.

5) Have realistic expectations and expect to change your strategy. These wreck trips have a lot of variables. Some trips are good some are bad. That is Winter fishing in general, It's been like that for years. Most of these spots have some life on them and in some cases a good batch of ling will save the day. I feel that if I catch one or two cod and few ling, that is a good trip. Add a Pollock and its a great one.

6) I have been having success with the pink tsunami 4-6in squids and the Pink/Red skirts on the droppers. Give them a try. Any comments or questions are welcome. I am open to learn as well. I just like to fish and share what I know so other people will go and be successful.

Leif

Killer Tangle Free Cod Rig

Killer Tangle Free Cod Rig

I was never an advocate of "Bells and Whistles" When it came to rigs. Especially Cod.
I always used a 2 hook "High Low" rig tied on 60-80lb leader. The 6-10 in snelled 7/0 bait holders were looped through small dropper loops and that was it. If it was a sticky wreck one high hook did the trick. Often those rigs would get stuck and twist/tangle up. Here is a rig I have used with much sucess in New England New York an New Jersey.

Tip. Since there are not tons of Cod around I use the "Last one down is a rotten egg method". Meaning I am ready with bait on to hit the bottom as soon as possible after anchoring. When that Cod sees those grubs and clam on your hook first....you got him! "You snooze you lose"

The Cod are coming back. If you can't get out now, the Spring should be good too.

This rig works great when there is a current. It does not tangle and it catches Cod.

You can also remove the botom hook and replace it with a smaller hook on a snelled leader for ling.
DISCLAIMER...
CONDITIONS VARY SO NOTHING WORKS PERFECT ALL THE TIME AND I KNOW EVERY COD FISHERMAN HAS THERE FAVORITE RIG.

Materials

7 ft 80-100lb clear Leader
3 230lb Spro swivels
2 8/0 Mustad/Eagle Claw O'Shauhnessy
2 6-8 in Pink Grubs

First open eye of 8/0 hooks and attach swivel, close eye using pliers. The swivels allow the hooks and bait to rotate so the rig will not trist on itself.

Sharpen these hooks!!! I use a dremel to do this because it is fast. Whatever you use make sure the hooks are sharp.

1 Tie a Perfection loop in one end for the sinker
2 Tie a 6in dropper loop 6-8in up from the loop
3 Tie in another Dropper loop 3ft above the first.
4 Attach one Swivel with clinch Knot 6-10 in above last loop
5 Loop hooks on and thread on pink grubs.

Cod medalions with mashed potatoes, over spinach and white truffle sauce.

Cod medallions with mashed potatoes, over spinach and white truffle sauce.

HAHA. Cod is King!!

Cod Medallions/Mashed Potatoes and Steamed Spinach

Serves 4

2 lbs Cod loins
4 Med. Yukon Gold Potatoes
1 Lg. Bag pre-washed cook in the bag baby Spinach
2 Cups frozen yellow corn
½ Cup chopped Red pepper
8 small Shitake mushrooms
¼ cup White truffle flavored olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup milk

Coating for fish

¼ cup instantized flour
1tsp white pepper
1tsp sea salt

The Fish
1)Cut cod loins into 1 in medallions
2)Coat cod with mixture of flour, pepper and salt
3)Heat non-stick pan, add truffle oil
4)Cook fish 2 minutes on each side on high heat

The Potatoes

1)Cook potatoes in microwave on paper towel till done (about 5 minutes)
2)Peel potatoes and put in bowl with milk butter salt and pepper
3)Mash or whip till smooth

The Spinach

1)Steam spinach right in the bag as per directions 3 minutes
2)Set aside

The Corn/Red Pepper /Mushrooms

1)Heat a lg. non-stick pan with a tsp of truffle oil.
2) Cook sliced shitake mushrooms till golden 3 minutes on med heat
3) Remove mushrooms/ set aside
4) Cook corn and peppers 5 minutes med heat, salt pepper to taste

The Sauce (separate ingredients)

In a sauce pan add
2 tablespoons of truffle oil, ¼ cup white wine, ¼ cup of light cream, ¼ cup chicken broth dash of Worcestershire, ½ tsp gravy master, dash hot pepper, dash lemon juice, salt pepper. Heat and wisk for 5 minutes.




Leif

Universal Teaser/Fly

Universal Teaser/Fly

Here is a teaser/fly that you can use for Fluke, Bass, Weakfish or almost any saltwater species that will eat a small baitfish. It can be used on a "teaser rig" for any of the above species and used with a swimming plug or bucktail. Many double header bass have been caught using this fly/teaser rig and it is deadly on Fluke as well. You can add a thin strip of bait or spearing to the fly as well. For Bass I use a 50lb leader, for fluke a 20lb. It is simple to tie and you can vary the hook size, color and amount of material to imitate different bait fish.

Materials

1) 2/0-3/0 long shank stainless hook

2) Chartreuse Bucktail

3) White Bucktail

4) Crystal flash

5) #10 mylar tinsel

6) Crazy or Gorilla Glue

Instructions

1) Wrap the hook with thread, (Monochord) Tie in a sparse piece of white bucktail at bend of hook.On top of this tie in some crystal flash.

2) Tie in a sparse section of Charetruse bucktail above white section on top of hook.

3) Tie in two or three more sections as stated above, working your way up to the eye. (not too close, leave a 1/4 in behind eye)

4) Turn fly over and tie in a long piece of white bucktail to the bend of the hook on the bottom of the fly. Apply a drop of glue.

5) Tie in a 1inch piece of #10 mylar tinsel on each side of the fly near the head for some flash.Whip finish and apply a drop of crazy glue.

Leif

How to catch more ling

Ling otherwise known as Red Hake have been on the comeback the past few years. I see more and more interest in the species with the decline or restrictions on other species such as Winter Flounder, Mackerel, Blackfish, and Cod. I have also noticed that many people have an interest in these tasty fish but are confused about the best way to catch, store, and cook them.
To that end I would like to provide some basic tips on the slightly underrated red hake. There are many Party boats that sail for them throughout the winter. I have fished on most of the Party Boats that target them but my favorite are the 3-9 magic hour trips. While ling can be caught both day and night they seem to “come alive” after dark.

Tackle (rods reels)
Nothing fancy is required. I like to use or bring the following:

7ft med action rod rated for 25lb test and Penn 140 or 146 squidder or equal. I load it with 30-50lb braid.
30lb snap at end of braid or 10ft or so of 30-50lb mono.

7ft med action rod for 30-50lb test and Penn Jigmaster 500 or equal. I load it with 50-65lb braid.
30lb snap at end of braid or 10ft or so of 30-50lb mono.

Rigs
Single or double snelled 1/0-2/0 circle hooks of “J” hooks on 12-20in of 50lb leader material. (Circle hooks hook the fish and they don’t fall off the hook)
You can loop on the leader above the sinker loop or use a three way swivel and large snap for the sinker. (Keep it simple)

Weight
5-12oz bank sinkers. (8-10 Average) Generally you can go lighter with the braid but be respectful to others and use enough weight to stay on the bottom straight up and down.

Bait
Clams, squid, bergal strips, gulp bait.
(SMALL BAIT IS BEST) You may not catch the big one but you will catch more of them. Especially with the circle hooks.
Try Bergal (Cunner) strips when the bergals are thick and stealing your bait and even when they are not.
Try smaller pieces of clams in 1in sometimes they slaughter them. My son tried them once and he killed them on the crab at night.

Helpful hints….

Check your bait often when getting hits and no fish.

Keep the bait small.

Watch others and change your strategy if needed. Especially the Mates!! Some things work at different times.

Move the bait. A little bounce here and there can do the trick. Some guys constantly bounce the sinker.

If your rig keeps getting tangled change it!!

Keep your hooks small, sharp, bait not too big. Keep the bait on the bottom as much as possible and you will out fish.

Move around the boat if possible. Be respectful of others.

Finally…..

Keep those ling cold and fresh. I bring ice on even the coldest day. You spend money to go. Why not take care of your fish??

Let the mates filet them and Tip them well. They will take care of you and do a good job Especially with ling.

Ling are tasty and can be fried steamed w/butter and made into fish cakes.


Contrary to popular belief Ling may be frozen and last months in the freezer if frozen properly.
Not in a ball in a bag.
After rinsing in salt water and drying vacuum seal or freeze flat in plastic wrap then put in a zip lock bag.

CATCH SOME LING

Leif

Ling with Broccoli Rabe and Potatoes

Ling with Broccoli Rabe and Potatoes

This is a tasty way to make ling. You can actually make this entire dish in the microwave. Very easy and quick. This also works well with Cod, Salt Cod and White Hake

2 Lbs Ling
1 lg bunch Broccoli Rabe
2 lg clove garlic Chopped
4 Med Red Potatoes
1/3 cup Olive Oil
1/4 cup Red wine Vinegar
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
2 chopped tomatoes

1) Steam Broccoli Rabe until soft in Pan or Microwave salt and pepper to taste
set aside.

2)Boil or microwave Potatoes until done. Leave skin on.


3)Steam ling in pan or in Microwave. drain

Place(spread evenly) Garlic on plate

Sprinkle equall anounts of oil and vinegar on Plate

Place Broccoli Rabe on top then fish and potatoes on the side.

Sprinkle tomato pine nuts and a little more olive oil over fish and Broccoli

Enjoy... any questions... as always feel free

How to care for your catch

Well the fall season is upon us and the fishing is heating up!
Numerous reports of Stripers and Blues are being reported  and it looks like it could be a very productive year.
That being said, I thought I would share a few ideas and techniques for handling and preparing your catch this year. Feel free to add your ideas and comment to the post as well.

One reason I felt compelled to share my ideas is because all too often I see a certain amount of waste when it comes to our precious resource. I do a fair amount of fishing and inevitably I see practices every season that can’t possibly bode well for the quality of meat when it arrives home. (Leaving any fish in a burlap bag in the sun will not work) With all the money we spend to actually go fishing, why not take the time to prepare the fish properly if we intend on eating them or give them away.

I will first provide some general procedures which should apply in most cases and elaborate in more detail for specific species. Most Charters will take care of your catch properly but it is up to you to prepare it properly when you get it home. If considering a “Party Boat” to do your fishing, you have a little more work to do. For the purposes of this post I will focus on Party Boat procedures.

Some of the following may seem like common sense and it is. Bring ice on even the coldest day. Don’t keep more than you can handle and have fun.

Preparation is key before the trip

Questions I ask myself are…..

Do I have enough packaging materials, vacuum seal bags and paper towels when I get home?
Do I have time to deal with the catch when I get back or the next day?
Do I have room in the refrigerator or freezer?
Do I have an area to prepare the catch?
Are my knives sharpened?

If you answered yes to the above questions you are off to a good start.

Bring appropriate sized cooler. (For the boat and the fish) An example may be, if you are intending on keeping ten large Bluefish, bring a cooler large enough to handle them. Ask the captain ahead of time to eliminate any problems. I have had situations where certain boats frown on bringing large coolers on board. Bring enough ice to last the whole day and bring a knife to bleed your fish. I am an advocate of bleeding most fish.
In my opinion the quality of the meat will be much better. I always bleed Bluefish, Striped Bass, Cod, Pollock and Blackfish.
You can bleed a fish by cutting it under the throat or by a few stabs under the gill plates on both sides. Bleeding works best when the fish is still alive.

Once the fish is bled, put it on the ice in the cooler. I like to add a little water as I go so I don’t melt all the ice in warm weather. At the end of the trip the fish should be rock hard in the slurry. Some guys put some kosher salt in the ice slurry as well. (Keeps the water colder).

Tip the mates well. (I say at least 20% of the fare)They will help you if you treat them right and they will bleed the fish in most cases for you if you ask. Obviously if the mate is busy gaffing one bluefish after the other you will have to take care of this yourself. I have the mates fillet my fish as well if they are good at it and most are.

Once you get the fish home put it right in the refrigerator until you are ready to pack it.
I sometimes will wait until the next day if necessary.

Vacuum seal your fish.

I use a Food Saver type of vacuum sealer. Buy the rolls in bulk and make your own sizes.

1) Trim your fish. Chances are there will be a small amount of bones or fins still attached to the fillets you have. I check over each one and remove any remaining bones and fins with a sharp knife. Remove all dark meat from Bluefish with sharp knife.
2) Rinse your fillets off in colds water with kosher salt to remove any blood or scales. (4 quarts of water and ½ cup kosher salt.) I don’t rinse tuna***
3) Dry your fillets well. I dry them on paper towels and go through quite a bit, but it is worth it. Dry the fish well and you won’t ruin you vacuum sealer.
4) Cut fillets into individual portions and place the fillets flat in bag.
5) Don’t overload the vacuum bags.

If you don’t have a vacuum sealer or cannot get one, wrap the fish tightly in clear plastic wrap and then foil. There are also some manual vacuum type sealer bags available at most food stores.

I hope you found this post useful. If the fish you catch are prepared properly, you will enjoy them much more. Good luck!

Leif

Deal Surf Report

Well another beautiful morning but no fish. Very quiet down there. The water was very clean. I worked the pencil popper again for about an hour. Only had one gull interested. Nice way to start the day again.Won't be long now before the fish are in the wash.