The Sun has finally decided to come out! I’m not talking about Montauk’s favorite publication The Montauk Sun, the actual Sun!! The Marinas are coming alive as everyone is getting ready for the upcoming fishing season. The Striped Bass are on their way, so it’s just a matter of time before Montauk Point comes alive with Birds, Bait, and Blitzing Striped Bass! Actually some smaller Stripers have already arrived, which is a great sign and could indicate an early start to the spring run.
Striped Bass regulations for 2025 will remain unchanged with the Bag limit per person still at one per angler, slot size limit is 28 inches to 31 inches. As far as the other species that we target in our area, the Porgy (Scup), Black Sea Bass, Bluefish, Fluke (Summer Flounder), we will assume they will remain the same as last year, but never assume when it comes to the regulations. We will post any changes as soon as they become available.
Striped Bass are a great fish to catch, but due to the 3 inch slot limit, a lot more fish are being released. It’s important to protect our Striped Bass resource and releasing them properly and quickly is extremely important! When releasing the Striped Bass hold it just behind the belly fins (Pelvic fins) with one hand then with the other hand hold back by the anal fin, then point the fish’s head down towards the water and thrust it straight down into the water. This action triggers the instinct to start swimming and enables the Bass to get deep enough to offset any air it may have gotten in its air bladder. Since practicing this technique we have had Zero fish floating on the surface struggling to get back down, so it greatly reduces the mortality rate which ensures the future of the species. When dealing with the smaller species use a small de-hooker and try not to touch the fish whenever possible, it’s quicker and is much less stress on the fish than grabbing them.
New regulation for the Bluefin Tuna for 2025 is now ONE fish per vessel!! Slot limit is 27 inches to less than 73 inches! Giants have to be 73 inches or greater, which require a Federal permit. Keep in mind this is a highly migratory species and is a serious offense if you are caught out of compliance. Not to sound like I’m making a joke, but it’s a Federal Offense!!!
Mako sharks are still closed down as of publication, but as with any regulations we will post any changes.
Time to get your boat ready and make your reservations, the season is Here!!
~ Tight Lines, Capt. Skip
