Trophy stripers push along the South Shore as the fall run peaks

What's biting

What's next

Expect striped bass to stay the main story over the next few days. On The Water's October 1 report noted that a weeklong nor'easter scattered fish before the bass woke up. Weather swings reshuffle the bite but do not end it. NY DEC has also reminded boaters to watch wind and barometric pressure and to be off the water before a storm arrives, which is worth heeding whenever a system is forecast.

For timing, the next predicted low at CO-OPS station 8510560 falls around 7:50 PM EDT tonight, so evening anglers will be fishing the start of the incoming tide after dark. Moving water at dawn and dusk is the classic window for bass working bait. On The Water's piece on baitfish that fuel blitzes is a good reminder to watch for birds working over the water before you commit to a spot.

The waxing crescent moon sets early in the evening, which leaves dark skies for after-sunset bass fishing. Tautog anglers should focus on structure when seas allow. Check state regulations on size and bag limits before keeping any fish.

Context

Mid-October is peak season for the fall migration along Long Island, and this year looks right on schedule. Cooling water and shortening days push baitfish out of bays and estuaries and along the beaches, with striped bass following close behind. Water in the mid 60s is typical for this point in the season, warm enough to keep bait active and cool enough to keep the bite aggressive.

Blackfish season opening in both the Sound and the Bight fits the usual fall rhythm, as tautog settle onto nearshore structure while the water cools. Late October into November often delivers some of the biggest bass of the year as fish stack up for the run south, so there is plenty of fall left to fish.