Fluke season ended too soon

Though the fluke season in N.J. started slowly during the peak of the pandemic, it ended on a high note — but much too soon

Quite a few impressive fluke were caught in the ocean right up to the last day it was possible to fish there. Rich Reed of Stillwater boated the 9-pound, 1-ounce fluke seen below on the Elaine B. II from Highlands on Thursday.

Capt. Ron Santee Jr. of the Fishermen from Atlantic Highlands was generally pleased with the fluke season, but is looking forward to starting daily porgy fishing on Tuesday.

Bob Matthews of Fisherman’s Den in Belmar Marina was also happy with the fluke season. He noted that there was a good bite of kingfish and blowfish today in Shark River Inlet, along with blackfish for those using green crabs.

Stripers are becoming more active in the surf, and there are both snappers and small blues in Shark River.

I had urged the ASMFC and Mid-Atlantic Council to loosen fluke regs early in the season as it seemed like a sure thing that the quota wouldn’t be filled due to the pandemic. However, they didn’t even extend the season.

The small craft warning has been extended to Tuesday afternoon. Tomorrow’s forecast is for more northeast at 15-20 knots and 6-9-foot seas.

.