10/3/25 Swell You Later

Fishing Report October 3rd, Swell You Later

Another beautiful weekend is headed our way! We had some solid waves roll through earlier this week, but things are calming down and conditions are shaping up nicely for a couple of solid days of fishing. Glass half full? Definitely, if you know where to look.

Striped Bass

Daytime bass fishing has gotten a little tricky lately, thanks to a heavy influx of rain bait. "Matching the hatch" isn't always easy, but tossing in a teaser rig can make a big difference. These pair well with swimming plugs, bucktails, shads—you name it.

• Top Picks (in stock now): Breachway Bomber, SP Minnow, SuperStrike Needle Fish

The Breachways have been productive at night, both on the point and further inside. Beaches were mostly quiet this week, big waves and steady winds pushed a lot of bait offshore. Still, a few die-hards found success working lures in the white water during the worst of the storm.

Fluke

A few solid fluke have come out of the salt ponds this week—most of them caught by accident. That said, the bite is there, and if you put in the time, you could definitely piece together a couple keepers. Worth a shot.

Bluefish

Snappers are still hanging in the pond, and some have gotten big enough to hit striper plugs. There's also the occasional blue being pulled from the surf and jetties. This time of year, metal lures are a great option—cast far, cut through the wind, and imitate the bait that's currently in the mix. And yes, stripers will eat metal too.

Albies

Not much to report this week. A few folks found them last weekend before the swell picked up, but rougher water kept most boats docked since. They're still around, often tight-lipped or running with schools of bones. Keep your eyes peeled and your gear ready—these speedsters won't be here forever.

• Best Bet: Long-casting metal lures that slice through wind and mimic local baitfish.
• Top Picks (in stock now):
  • Deadly Dick, Kastmasters, and Epoxy jigs from Hogy or Joe Baggs

Tautog

The tog bite is strong and only getting better with the cooler nights rolling in. Reports of larger fish are increasing, though bait-stealers are still hanging thick in spots. 25–35 feet of water has been the most productive range lately. Must-Haves:

• Green crabs (fresh in stock daily)
• Heavy jigs and rigs built for sticky bottom

Looks like it's shaping up to be a fishy weekend. Tight lines out there, and enjoy the early fall bite before it turns cold for reel.

Weekend Weather report: