Fishing Report: Remember to Register For Your Fishing Permit

In her most recent fishing report reminded anglers to register for their saltwater fishing permits with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

“You can do it on their web site, at Dick's sporting goods or the Walmart in Middle Island,” she said. “Or just call the DEC at (866) 933-2257. They’ll probably start ticketing this weekend if you are stopped and the fine is $250.00. So make sure you do it. It's free.”

On the web, go to the DEC website and register for the permit online.

“All anglers fishing in the marine and coastal district waters or the Hudson River and its tributaries for ‘migratory fish of the sea’ (e.g. striped bass) must enroll in the no-fee recreational Marine Fishing Registry,” the DEC website says.

Caraftis also said that if you’re fishing for porgies, check out Old Field Point, Crane's Neck and the middle grounds.

“Worms and clams and clam chum is the bait of choice,” she said.

A report from fishenmission on noreast.com said that he was out with his daughter on a fishing trip on and the “porgy bite was fun.” Like Caraftis said, chumming helps.

“Fifteen porgies,” he reported. “Nice size for the barbeque. Chumming certainly keeps the scup biting.”

There are also reportedly big blues at buoy 11 and the middle grounds.

“Some keeper bass there as well,” she said. “Bunker, chunking, diamond jigging and trolling umbrella rigs is the secret to catching those big boys.”

If you look at all the reports over the season so far, keeper fluke have been a rare animal. Plenty of shorts but not many keepers.

“But some keepers are being caught in 60 - 80 feet of water off Old Field and Crane's Neck,” Caraftis reported.

To help prove the point, fishenmission said he caught 12 fluke on his trip but “no keepers.”

Have you found out where the big fluke are hiding? Let us know in the comments or email editor Lon Cohen.