NJ Saltwater Fisherman Forums
NJ Saltwater Fishing Reports and Information => Helping Each Other Out => Topic started by: catfish hunter on February 16, 2007, 01:04:34 PM
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Spring is on the way and so are the bass, so lets hear some tips for all methods of fishing for them. I start my season w/ clams/worms on the flats where there is a creek to pump out warmer water to get them moving and feeding. As the season goes on, move to the edges of channels and anchor up and chum w/ all the shells,I like to smash the shells w/ a bat to disperse the pieces and to add a visual effect {pieces of shell flutter and flash}. I always keep all left over bait and put it in my chum freezer and use it for chum next time out .
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Hi Catfish Hunter,
I could not have said it better myself.
The one thing that I would add is that if you can find a shallow flat, preferably with eelgrass, that has a dropoff nearby, fish that dropoff and surrounding area on an outgoing tide and you may find nirvana. There are a few places like that behind LBI but I don't have the numbers for them as I am a guest on a friend's boat when we fish those places.
Have fun,
Ed
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Sounds like you have it pegged, all the right info/places. A lot of guys over look the back of rivers, the Navesink is great early in the year, water warms up and some real slob bass are to be found....love working the sedge grass with a plug ;D ;D ;D
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do you mean to tell me no one else as any bass tips to share ;D
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Most tend to play their cards close to the vest ;) ;) ;) ::)
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Hi Catfish Hunter,
I will share any/all I know. I need a day or two to get my act together. I am at the Fred Hall Shows in San Francisco and each day since Wednesday I have been hanging out with some West coast Captains and Reps. Great way to learn new "tricks."
The one thing that the Captains and I have in common that I hang out with are that we share info. If everyone is catching fish, the better the buzz in the Newspaper fishing reports and the better business is for all making a living in the fishery.
Don Iovino, Hall of Fame BASS fisherman, has been sharing all kinds of ideas with me this week. I have written over 40 pages of notes. If he can help, there is no excuse for others not helping. I will post some interesting things about Lowrance settings in the coming days.
Give me a few days and I will get more info up. One thing in advance. I do not target Stripers, maybe once a few times a season from boat and a handfull of times in the surf as I believe the stock is not as "robust" as people think. I also practice strict catch and release.
Thanks,
Capt. Ed
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Most tend to play their cards close to the vest ;) ;) ;) ::)
so it seems
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Catfish
In addition to what you are doing for bass with your posting, you should sned down a small bucket with frozen clams bellies. Set it about 2 feet off the bottom, this really gets them coming in........
I by my clams from the clammers and suck up a few bushel, grind or cut up the clams in small pieces, remember you want to attract not feed.....freeze he clams in their juice...........I also same the shells and juice if I am going out right away......I pre smash the shells in a five gal bucket and throw hand fulls over in between smashing clams..........
For my clam bucket I have a 2 gallon plastic bucket with 3/4 to 1 inch holes drilled in it, have a 10 pound weight in the bottom........give it a try ;D
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Since the boat I use is a family used boat its not usually in the water until mid april early may...
Mid march to the end of march I go to a spot down by graveling point from shore and use some waders and worms and the spot produces tons of bass... not many keepers but definitely a good time catching... Come mid march to late april I'll let everyone know when I'm heading down and your welcome to come along if you want.
Btw I used to use my surf rod, but now with my new acquired skill in rod building, thats my next rod project, a casting rod sized down to a 7 footer from my 9 foot surf rod.
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Catfish
In addition to what you are doing for bass with your posting, you should sned down a small bucket with frozen clams bellies. Set it about 2 feet off the bottom, this really gets them coming in........
I by my clams from the clammers and suck up a few bushel, grind or cut up the clams in small pieces, remember you want to attract not feed.....freeze he clams in their juice...........I also same the shells and juice if I am going out right away......I pre smash the shells in a five gal bucket and throw hand fulls over in between smashing clams..........
For my clam bucket I have a 2 gallon plastic bucket with 3/4 to 1 inch holes drilled in it, have a 10 pound weight in the bottom........give it a try ;D
Thats the same thing I do ;D guess it is a Local thing ;) ;)
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I do that also but I put them in my chum pot
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I do that also but I put them in my chum pot
I guess it's the same thing, but we use a 2-1/2 gallon bucket as a chum pot ( homemade thing ) I like mine cause the lid is a screw-on type ;)
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I guess it's the same thing, but we use a 2-1/2 gallon bucket as a chum pot ( homemade thing ) I like mine cause the lid is a screw-on type ;)
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I'll have to try it ,thanks
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If your fishing from the beach and using worms for bait it's important to use 2 or 3 worms on the hook. Don't thread them up the hook,just hook them through the head and they will stay on the hook and undulate in the current till a big bass eats them!
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I mostly fish from the shore and we buy fresh clams still in the shells and shuck them as we need them. But I always make sure I get them out into the water, instead of giving the seagulls a meal because that just might attract some hungry bass :)
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OK, once I have determined where I'm going to drop the hook. flats, edge of a drop or a lump.Its time to get the baits out and get your chum going. I throw the shells and a few clam bellies over the side. For my rigs I use a fish finder rig with about a 8/0 circle hook and my bait is a big sloppy surf clam(you never know when a big cow is going to take your offering)With not more than 3' leader. I see guys using leaders that are around 5'. I think they would be more successful if they used a shorter leader. The reason: If you have a decent amount of current like we do in the Delaware Bay your bait will start to float up off the bottom. This is not natural. By using a 3' leader it seems to lay on the bottom better. I will even go down to a 2' leader if I need too depending on the current. I'll do this particularly around the new and full moon. When the fish picks up the bait and starts to move with it all we need to do is crank. Then hold on and enjoy the ride.
We fish for Black drum the same way.
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im not a big stripper fan.but when nothing else is happening.I go by the commerical boats in C.M.,I use squid heads(dont throw them away, they love um)hook um thru the eyes.throw some chum at in coming tide ive caught double headers on top&bottom hooks
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Hi All,
This may be the best tip I can offer from my time spent at the Saltwater Fishing Expo about stripers. Mike Laptow has released a new DVD about all aspects of stripers including underwater video. It took him 6 years to complete. I just started watching it. What I have seen so far is awesome!
I would get my hands on a copy and spend a bit of time watching it.
You can see some samples of his work at:
Stripers
http://www.saltwatersportsman.com/saltwater/stripervideo
Fluke
http://www.saltwatersportsman.com/saltwater/laptew_fluke_video
Thanks,
Capt. Ed
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I want to get both videos but the website doesnt have the Fluke video listed..Where did you get these videos agian Capt Ed??
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I want to get both videos but the website doesnt have the Fluke video listed..Where did you get these videos agian Capt Ed??
do a search for striper gone wild
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Hi All,
Sorry ... forgot to put his link:
http://www.laptewproductions.com/
I know they have the DVD (unless it sold out) at Fisherman's Supply in Pt. Pleasant. There are also other ways to order such as the Internet at http://www.tackledirect.com .
I do not think the fluke footage is part of a fluke only DVD. I believe it may be part of the Stripers Gone Wild DVD ... or is just for show.
Thanks,
Capt. Ed
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Chum Chum Chum
If you want to catch striped bass on a consistant basis you have to break out the chum pot. I like to anchor up stream to a rip or drop off and set out the pot with clam bellies or bunker. Whatever is available and is the freshest. Flood or ebb tide doesn't seem to matter as long as you have tidal movement. I only use circle hooks. I used to not be a believer in them but they really work and the hook up ratio to me seems to be the same.
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best thing to do is what has been said, but not expressed,,,, use fishfinderrigs for your wieghts, get rid of the 3way swivels they are hurting you in the long run.
i use fishfinder rigs for everything, and will outfish people not using them just about everytime on the boat or surf.
these are the cheapies, but more than adequate fro mono users,, for braided you will want to get the heaver ones to prevent your line from ripping through it.
(http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/content/Item/31/67/09/i316709sq01.jpg)
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Hi All,
I am in 100% agreement with Reel Time.
I may add to put a glass bead on each side of the fishfinder.
Why? The glass bead closest to the barrel swivel will protect the knot. The glass bead on the main line side of the fishfinder will protect your guide tip if you reel too much line in.
Best wishes,
Capt. Ed
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Roger All That!!.
Last year I think I sat here and tied about 3 dozen Rigs.. "With the bead" It also stops it from hanging up on the swivel And I found you can feel if you lost your bait or not because your not pulling on the sinker.
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Heys a solid tip, Find a few head boats that are chumming real good. Anchor up a few hundreds yards behind them. Utilized the heavy chum slick they are producing and chum also. Being at the tale of their slicks will help pick up fish quickly.. Just be curtious is year approach and distance. You'll be able to snag some solid fish.
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Nice!!.. I like that one..
Humm. How many Cow Pics do you have? ;D
Is that the same fish? :P
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Capt Rod.
No thats a different cow.. I fish three to four nights a week. Last year I had one of those seasons we dream of!!! I have pages of pics of some cows!! One night had 8 stripers all over 40lbs, while throwing back numerous 30lbers back.. I do have some secret tricks that work.. I'm definitely entering the tournaments this year!!
Joe
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Hi All,
Sorry ... forgot to put his link:
http://www.laptewproductions.com/
I know they have the DVD (unless it sold out) at Fisherman's Supply in Pt. Pleasant. There are also other ways to order such as the Internet at http://www.tackledirect.com .
I was in Tackle Direct (9th st. in Ocean City) last month and they had the video playing. It looked really good, I would of bought it but I spent all my money on a fly box and tying materials.
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Everytime I went to order it the price made me sweat. I have very limited funds for odd things like this but I keep hearing how great it is so I think I'm gonna pick it up.
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Hi All,
I 100% agree with Young Gull!
Tight lines,
Capt. Ed
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any shops have it locally?
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I picked mine up at the expo..........The vendor that had it also was Fisherman Supply in Point Pleasant.
next viewing at 8pm ;D
hey, you should rub it in a little!
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Hi Shadyvito,
If Toms River is closer, you can borrow my copy.
Ed's library is open!
Best wishes,
Capt. Ed
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You guys are great. I would take you guys up on that but the cost of the gas would be more then the video! If I come up there to meet you guys it will be to catch some fish with you. We should find a place and day where everyone can get together and meet face to face.
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Hi ShadyVito,
You have an open invitation ... wait until things get going in a month.
Best wishes,
Capt. Ed
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Was wondering if anyone can help me locate where I post new messages?? I am only able to reply to them.
Thanks for any help.
Capt Ralph
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http://njsaltwaterfisherman.com/forums/index.php?action=help;page=post#newtopic
or call me @ 954-9107
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Hi Ruger314,
They had them at Fisherman's Supply in Pt. Pleasant. Give them a call ...
Best wishes,
Capt. Ed
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Heres a few tips that produce for me.Early season surf bass [march-april]I fish the back of raritan bay cliffwood-keansburg using 2 rods one with high low rig the other with fishfinder rig.Clams are the bait of choice ONLY FRESH ONES.I will hit creek mouths and sedge banks,incoming tides have always been better for me and I like the wind in my face.I bait up by cutting clams in half and using the ribbon from the shells also Ive gotten many bass by just the ribbon.I try to stay away from the crowds also fishing at dusk and at hard to reach spots,allot of fisherman are lazy and dont like to hike it or get wet.From late april to may I head to sandy hook using the same approach.By boat I'll start bassing between the ! can in keyport to keansburg pier in 20-10ft of water I'll get a bushell of clams and take 2 dozen and put them in a 5 gallon pail with a little water and smash them to make a soup.By smashing the clams in the boat I think it mimicks the clammers with their rakes and rings the dinner bell for bass.As the water warms I head to deeper water And switch to chunking bunker.Again fresh is best but I have had luck with vacuum sealled frozen bunker as well.I cut my bunker into 4 pieces discarding the tail section.I also use the fish finder rig with 60# flourocarbon the heavy line tends to hold up well if blues are around.I like to anchor upcurrent of any kind of stucture ie a dip,lighthouses,musslebeds.I try to cover all parts of the water coulum by setting my baits staight down,50-100 ft behind the boat and i like to set out a floater by casting infront of the boat and letting it drift back.Whew thats allot typing.
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Thanks shucker for the time put into the article. A lot info there.
Again thanks ;D
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Well it looks like we have got it all covered. The only thing I would add is for those of you that are fishing areas with strong current don't make your leaders very long. The longer they are your clam belly will come up off the bottom and start to spin. The same thing holds true if using bunker. The last time I checked clams and chunks of bunker don't swim up in the water column away from the bottom. The bait needs to lay right on the bottom. About 2 foot of leader or so, no more. Make sure your using enough weight to keep you down too. I fish in the Delaware Bay in the spring and fall. We have a strong current especially around the moon.
The Bass and Drum will not touch the bait if it does not look right.
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One thing I can add is that I find when I buy fresh clams and don't use them all. I save them and use them the following week. They stink but do very well if not better than fresh. I figure that during a Noreaster the clams get broken up and are in the wash for at least that long. This may be actually more natural than fresh bait. The added scent can't hurt.
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where can I catch these fish? what size hook is best to use? I can fish by keypot after working. yes?
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yes you can catch them by keyport, stick around if youre serious and there will be some good info on it..this site is all about helping each other
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Hi Capt. Craig and Shucker,
I made your posts into "Tips" on the front page. I slightly edited them. If you want the word file, I will send it to you.
Thanks and I hope you do not mind!
Capt. Ed
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ok i will thanks
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nice try catfish :o :o :o i am not tell you so just pay up ;D
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Here is a tip... Fish with a Captain..
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When I buy "Fresh Clams" from the bait shop, they have been out of the water for sometimes days. I place them in a 5 gallon bucket with fresh salt water for about 1/2 hour, then dump the water out . This refreshes the clams and you can keep them alive for long periods of time (weeks) by giving them a refresher bath . Just always use salt water, fresh water will kill them. Also , don't leave them in the water too long, they will use up all of the oxygen in the water and die , you'll be left with chum . Even then , I have caught Bass on old,stinky clams,but prefer fresh. Happy Clamming. <'((((><
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I use a 3 foot 50# fluorocarbon leader, then tie in a light trolling weight (drail) then my line. I use just enough weight to keep my bait just off the bottom when I drift it back. I have had very good success with this rig using both clams and bunker.
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I use a 3 foot 50# fluorocarbon leader, then tie in a light trolling weight (drail) then my line. I use just enough weight to keep my bait just off the bottom when I drift it back. I have had very good success with this rig using both clams and bunker.
I wouldn't want them too refreshed because then they become a bitch to open... lol
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Hi all, thanks alot for sharing! I totally agree about SGW- i watch it all the time. I'll share afew useful tips i use...
I find fishing the surface to be rather unproductive, especially when you are catching alot of bluefish. A softbait (storm, calcutta, gulp etc) or jig (ava, hopkins) towards the bottom will generally produce better. The time to use topwaters is in low-light condidtions, especially around the sun movement (rise/set). The best plugs are: wooden pencil poppers and bottle plugs and crystal minnows. use a dark-colored plug because it will provide better contrast against the dark sky. Also, fish shallower when it is darker.
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Thanks blynch,
All are very good suggestions. This site is crammed with very useful suggestions to make our outings as productive as possible. This year I am looking forward to reading about all of our new members catching their trophy fish and allowing every one on here to be a part of that experience.
Happy Catching
Paul
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BTW, if you want to catch a keeper striped bass on Sat. make your way to Oyster Creek's out flow side. I hear that they are catching 30 inchers there now while fishing for white perch. They say the water temp is in the 50'S.
The only problem is that Sat it will be take a number time because the area is so small and will not hold to many guys.
Good luck to whoever is going out. I think I will wait till Monday and go out them to the back part of IBSP.
Happy Catching
Paul
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Guys,
The only thing I haven't caught since I got back into fishing last year in Raritan Bay is a Striper! My "younger brother"(47) tells me I'll never get one. This year I'm determined to do it and threads like this one will be very helpful in reaching my goal!! Thanks
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Follow the advise you read here and you will get that striper. TT^
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As Joe has said, plus you have to work at it. These hints, tricks and suggestions might take some getting use to but that is half the fun. Once you master one technique move on the the next. Don't try by bouncing around you will go nuts.
Paul
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Guys,
The only thing I haven't caught since I got back into fishing last year in Raritan Bay is a Striper! My "younger brother"(47) tells me I'll never get one. This year I'm determined to do it and threads like this one will be very helpful in reaching my goal!! Thanks
i went a lot longer than i cared to admit w/o getting my first >:( (fortunately, my first, and second, and third, etc...) came this fall... ;D ;D Good luck!
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wait till May hits and listen to the radio... We'll be on fish all the time.. Watch, Listen, and be courtious on the water and alot of guys will help you with landing stripers!!! I'll start around the 25 of this month!!
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Great advise...it always helps. TT^
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just caught my first "keeper" striper last year. now i'm obsessed. been a fluke man all my life, now i split my time equally. take the tips given here, but like in golf, do it your way, and the results, when good, will feel better t^
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So true, but the biggest advice anyone can take away from this site is that you have to put your time in. You can read all the advice but if you are not out there drowning bait all that advice is for nothing.
I would love to accumulate all the years up of the people on this site that have been avid fisherman and see what the talley would be.
For me I started when I was 5 giving me 55 years of learning under my belt.
Good luck this season everyone...
Happy Catching
Paul