Plenty of stripers, but they can be fussy

Just because you see them doesn’t mean you’re always going to catch them!

That was the problem reported by the Golden Eagle from Belmar They managed some bass early as they were feeding in bunker schools, but the bite slowed before picking up at mid-day. Later the bass resumed working the bait, but were difficult to hook. Most were overs which were released, though there were a few keepers.

Capt. Ron Santee had a different experience on his Fishermen from Atlantic Highlands as bass of all sizes cooperated including some Bonus Bass. Eddie led the way with a 48-inch release, and there were several 25-30-pounders.

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Tony Arcabascio’s grandson caught his first striped bass this week though I doubt if it was on a Tony Maja bunker spoon. That young man has a lot of catching up to do before equaling his grandfather in catching stripers!

The weather forecast remains ideal, with southwest winds at 5-10 knots.

Vinny D’Anton reports there’s a bothersome swell on the Monmouth County surf that’s. creating a backwash problem which surfcasters have to take into account. There was some exciting fishing yesterday for those who could fire a lure far over the bar as the bass out there were from 15 pounds up to over 40. Vinny raised one monster, but it failed to hook up. This morning was a different story as none of his group hooked up even though a few big surf bass were reported by others.

Betty & Nick’s Fishing Club member Brian Smith reported he went up north yesterday to release this 47-inch bass.