Tuna fishing looking good

Tuna fishing off the N.J. coast started well, and continues to improve.

Capt. Mark DeBlasio reports from his Blue Runner out of Point Pleasant: on the July4-5 trip.

Beautiful weather and loads of action for our open boat group. Over 35 Bluefins caught / released plus 4 for 6 on nice Yellowfins. Added a couple of Marlin releases and a Mahi. Really nice to put 11 year old Mason on his first Tuna

Jersey Nutz Sportfishing made a July 4 trip on the 53-footer that produced eight yellowfins, two bigeyes and three bluefins plus a white marlin release — and they still got home for the festivities.

The Golden Eagle from Belmar opted to anchor up due to today’s wind, and had a steady pick of ling and whiting. Everyone also got the one sea bass now allowed in N.J.

The Fishermen from Atlantic Highlands had a good day with keeper fluke up to the 4 5/16-pound pool winner. However, some bigger fluke were lost due to not being hooked well in deep waters where heavy sinkers are required. Bring a rod with enough backbone!

A small craft advisory is up through Sunday afternoon, though the forecast sounds fine by morning with west winds at 5 knots before going south in the afternoon.