Folks, now is the time of year when many surfcasters cut back on the sport and tend to other interests. Families are important too. Some of us of have been neglecting them somewhat during the season, and it is now time to get back to reality.

For those of you who will be bottom fishing through the winter, there are quite a few capable party boats in NY who will put you on fish. The blackfish season now allows more keepers, and there are tasty seabass, ling, and whiting available through the season.

As a thanks for those putting up NY bottom fishing reports, I will give away one custom plug at the end of the season. The winner will be chosen via a random number program.


Remember, folks, the party and charter fleets are suffering through this bad economy as much as we all are. The days of full boats are limited to days around holidays and vacation days. Many anglers have cut back on their fishing. There is just not enough disposable income to go around.

Meanwhile, the fleets available to you, both commercial and private charters, are some of the best around. These captains and mates will work hard to put you into fish.

If you feel some of them do an exemplary job, please post a report detailing the time you had, so others can use their services as well. If you feel the trip was less than optimal, please be honest and tell us about that too. All the information is valuable to those who live far away and travel here for the fantastic (at times) bottom fishing.

Thank you to all members, new and existing, for your support and posts. I wish all of you and your families a joyous Holiday season - bunkerjoe