Blackfish still in the picture

With mild winter weather prevailing so far, anglers have been able to continue fishing even though fewer party and charter boats are available.

At Belmar, the Big Mohawk has concluded winter blackfishing, but the Ocean Explorer plans to continue this week. They had a pick of tog in beautiful conditions on Friday, with shorts and a few keepers plus a few cod — and ling for those fishing with Gulp.

There was even better news from South Jersey as Capt. Al Crudele had a party out of Sea Isle City at the end of the week with a limit of blacks that included three trophy tog from 11 to 16.4 pounds! They also had some keeper cod, and jumbo ling plus large cunners (bergalls). To take advantage of the weather and the continuing open season, he’ll try running some open trips this week. Call him at 609 602-2662.

There’s small craft advisory up from 1 a.m. through late Sunday night, though the Sunday morning forecast looks good with only west winds at 10-15 knots. The seas are predicted to be 3-5 feet, but the windy weather should hold off until late in the day.