Diamond Jigging Techniques: Diamond Jigging is a versatile fishing technique that can be highly effective in a variety of conditions, particularly when targeting species like bluefish and striped bass. Understanding the nuances of diamond jigging techniques and matching the hatch are key elements to success in this method of fishing. Here's a breakdown of diamond jigging techniques and the conditions in which it works well: Diamond Jigging Techniques: • Vertical Jigging: The most common technique used in diamond jigging involves dropping the lure vertically into the water column and then jigging it upward in a sharp, erratic motion. This mimics the movement of injured or fleeing baitfish, which can trigger aggressive strikes from predatory species like bluefish and striped bass. • Fluttering: Another effective technique is to let the diamond jig flutter down through the water column after it's been dropped. This imitates the natural descent of wounded baitfish, enticing strikes from opportunistic predators lurking below. • Speed Jigging: Speed jigging involves quickly retrieving the lure through the water at varying speeds, creating a darting, erratic motion that can trigger reaction strikes from actively feeding fish. • Bottom Bouncing: When fishing in deeper waters or around underwater structures, anglers can employ a bottom-bouncing technique by allowing the diamond jig to sink to the bottom and then bouncing it along the seabed to mimic the movement of foraging prey. • Conditions for Diamond Jigging: Clear Water: Diamond jigging tends to work best in clear or moderately clear water conditions where fish have good visibility and can easily spot and target the lure. • Active Feeding Times: Fishing during periods of high activity, such as dawn, dusk, or during tidal changes, can increase your chances of success with diamond jigging. These are times when predatory fish are actively feeding and more likely to strike at passing lures. • Presence of Baitfish: Diamond jigging is most effective when there is a significant presence of baitfish in the area. Pay attention to signs of baitfish activity such as surface disturbances, diving birds, or baitfish flickering near the surface. Structure and Current: Fishing near underwater structures such as reefs, rock piles, drop-offs, or submerged ledges can increase your chances of encountering predatory fish. Additionally, fishing in areas with moderate to strong currents can attract fish to your lure. Matching the Hatch: Matching the hatch involves selecting diamond jigs that closely resemble the size, shape, and coloration of the predominant baitfish in the area. Pay attention to the species of baitfish present and adjust your lure selection accordingly. For example, if silversides or sand eels are abundant, opt for smaller, slender-profiled diamond jigs in silver or natural hues. If larger bunker or herring are prevalent, choose larger, bulkier jigs in darker colors like blue or green. By mastering diamond jigging techniques, understanding optimal fishing conditions, and carefully matching the hatch, anglers can enhance their chances of success when targeting bluefish, striped bass, and other predatory species in New England's coastal waters.

With temps dropping and bait throughout the sound. Blues and Stripers are starting to feed for their dal migration! This is some of the best fishing rhe sound offers. Cool mornings just add to the fun! The reefs are loaded up with blacksea bass and are great table fair.

The fishing for stripers have been red hot- we have had great success trolling and using flutter spoons. Black sea bass is picking up and should just keep getting better. Fluke has been slow but will also improve.

Trip Summary If you're an avid angler in the Northeast, then you know that striped bass, also known as "stripers," are one of the most popular gamefish in the region. These hard-fighting fish can be caught in a variety of ways, making them a favorite among both fly and conventional anglers. In this post, we'll discuss some tips and tactics for catching stripers in the Northeast. Time your trip: Timing is everything when it comes to striped bass fishing. In the Northeast, these fish migrate from their wintering grounds in the south during the spring, moving up the coast to their spawning grounds in the Chesapeake Bay and Hudson River. Peak fishing season in the Northeast usually starts around May and runs through October. Find the right location: Stripers can be found in a variety of locations, including bays, estuaries, rivers, and along the coastline. Look for areas with good water flow, structure, and baitfish. Bridges, jetties, and rocky shorelines are all good places to start your search. Use the right gear: For conventional anglers, Light to medium spinning or baitcasting gear is typically used to target stripers. Fly anglers can use 8 to 10 weight rods with floating or intermediate sinking lines. Choose the right bait: Stripers are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of baitfish. Live bait such as eels, bunker, and herring are all popular choices. Lures such as topwater plugs, jigs, and soft plastics can also be effective. Use the right technique: When fishing with live bait, use a fishfinder rig or Carolina rig with a 3 to 5 oz weight. Cast out and let the bait drift with the current. For lures, vary your retrieve speed and depth until you find what the fish are responding to. Practice catch and release: Striped bass populations have been under pressure in recent years due to overfishing and environmental factors. Make sure to release fish quickly and handle them carefully to minimize stress and injury. As of now these fish are in deep channels coming into the shallower waters for thermal warmth and active feeding.

If you're an avid angler in the Northeast, then you know that striped bass, also known as "stripers," are one of the most popular gamefish in the region. These hard-fighting fish can be caught in a variety of ways, making them a favorite among both fly and conventional anglers. In this post, we'll discuss some tips and tactics for catching stripers in the Northeast. Time your trip: Timing is everything when it comes to striped bass fishing. In the Northeast, these fish migrate from their wintering grounds in the south during the spring, moving up the coast to their spawning grounds in the Chesapeake Bay and Hudson River. Peak fishing season in the Northeast usually starts around May and runs through October. Find the right location: Stripers can be found in a variety of locations, including bays, estuaries, rivers, and along the coastline. Look for areas with good water flow, structure, and baitfish. Bridges, jetties, and rocky shorelines are all good places to start your search. Use the right gear: For conventional anglers, Light to medium spinning or baitcasting gear is typically used to target stripers. Fly anglers can use 8 to 10 weight rods with floating or intermediate sinking lines. Choose the right bait: Stripers are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of baitfish. Live bait such as eels, bunker, and herring are all popular choices. Lures such as topwater plugs, jigs, and soft plastics can also be effective. Use the right technique: When fishing with live bait, use a fishfinder rig or Carolina rig with a 3 to 5 oz weight. Cast out and let the bait drift with the current. For lures, vary your retrieve speed and depth until you find what the fish are responding to. Practice catch and release: Striped bass populations have been under pressure in recent years due to overfishing and environmental factors. Make sure to release fish quickly and handle them carefully to minimize stress and injury.

The spring striper season is a highly anticipated time for many anglers this time of the year. As the water begins to warm up, stripers, also known as rockfish or striped bass, become more active and start to move into shallow waters to feed. This is an excellent opportunity for anglers to target these hard-fighting fish and enjoy some great fishing. Here are some tips for a successful spring striper fishing trip: Location: Look for stripers in areas with baitfish, such as near river mouths or inlets. Keep an eye out for birds diving and feeding, as this can also indicate the presence of stripers below. Fish Sandbars and drops off, work different tides and moon phases Tackle: We Use a light action rods with a fast action and a good reel with a high gear ratio to handle the fast runs of stripers. I like mono as a main line nothing heavier than 30lbs and fluorocarbon line is a good choice for leader material. Lures: Topwater lures, such as poppers or stickbaits, are great for catching the attention of stripers on the surface. Jigs and soft plastics fished near the bottom can also be effective. Trolling is always a top producer. Techniques: Vary your retrieve speed and pay attention to how the fish are reacting. Stripers can be aggressive feeders, so don't be afraid to try different retrieves to see what they respond to best. Respect the Fish: Stripers are an important species in many coastal ecosystems and are also highly prized by anglers. Practice catch-and-release to help ensure the health of the population for future generations. By following these tips and being prepared for the spring striper season, you'll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable fishing trip. As always we love to teach so book a trip with us and take the knowledge back! Tight Lines Capt Joe