Surveys have shown that the Chesapeake and Delaware-Maryland-Virginia region is poised to see a better-than-average fishing season this year. Recruitment and young-of-year numbers have been improving, and the overall population of striped bass indicates that Marone saxatilis is on a path to somewhat of a promising recovery. As to what extent, we will have to wait and see since we have been down this path before.

Although this fish is quite durable and can tolerate swings in temperatures and water conditions, they have proven to be very susceptible to overfishing, habitat degradation, and careless disregard of the fishery. Many of the striped bass we catch come from the bay area, as well as the Hudson River fishery and our own holdover rivers. If we are going to continue seeing any kind of a reprieve, then helping keep the mortality of released fish down would be a step in the right direction for us fishers to take.

Circle hooks are designed to lip-hook a fish. Using an in-line one, as opposed to an offset style, would further reduce trauma. Since the majority of fish released would be lip-hooked, causing less internal damage, this would be a simple adjustment for fishers to make. Carefully removing a hook before quickly returning a striper to the water also helps to reduce mortality, as does helping to resuscitate it prior to releasing its tail.

Keeping a short striped bass in Connecticut without a voucher is illegal, even if it cannot be revived. So, paying closer attention to a rod tip or keeping in touch with your line better will minimize gut-hooking a fish. Gut-hooking has the opposite effect of lip-hooking and is often fatal, especially during a prolonged fight. Following these few suggestions will help curtail mortality and allow a fish to grow and swim another day.

So how does all of this add up? According to a recent survey conducted in the bay, striper reproduction is up. That has generated a cautiously optimistic feeling among bass enthusiasts. The class of fish coming from 2011 ought to bring up a run of linesiders in the 28-inch range, and that should translate into an above-average season. Of course, there will be a mix of younger and older fish, but the thrust of the action will be centered around that class. The big question is: What percentage of these fish will enter Long Island Sound and mix with those from the Hudson River fishery, as well as our own holdovers? That remains to be seen. However, shy of any significant weather blowouts, be prepared to have some memorable striped bass moments.

On the Water

We are a couple of steps closer to spring. Each passing week can basically be described in one word: ditto. This is exactly how the weather is playing out, although the inshore Long Island Sound water temperature is edging upward. The average has been 40 degrees with parts of tidal rivers and even above in some cases. As a result, fog has been an issue, especially with the air being as moist as it has been. Nevertheless, we are gaining three minutes-plus of daylight as the days continually get longer, so expect 43-degree water temps to get here rather soon. Until then, some more rain, sun, and maybe a few more snowflakes to deal with.

All of the regularly stocked waters in Connecticut are now closed, with the exception of designated management areas. Recently, however, the catch and release zones have been seeing above-average activity. Lakes and ponds are gradually warming up, meaning that activity should increase as more light penetrates and oxygen levels begin to stagger. Winds will be predominately out of the Northwest, generally making that sector of water in a lake the warmest. Therefore, consider fishing that section first for the best results.

It looks as if time has run out for augers and ice jigs all along the shoreline and even farther inland. Continue northward toward the Massachusetts border and some spots are still holding up, but not many. Now is the time to prop up freshwater trout and bass gear, as well as those for striped bass. That means reel and rod service, new line, swapping off those old hooks, and re-stocking those lures and flies that found targets other than fish.

Striped bass have been congregating in the warmer parts of key tidal rivers and where flows have attracted potential herring runs. The action has intensified up river near bait balls and downriver where coves and inlets have been holding fish. The unseasonable weather has prompted this early striper activity. Whether it continues at the same pace is still up in the air, but based on this season’s pattern, it should, allowing for a few minor setbacks. Early activity by beaches, harbors, and minor tidal rivers is developing.

Sad Note

We lost a fine fisherman and gentleman in Tommy Capone of Guilford, who passed away suddenly on Feb. 21. His enthusiasm for fishing and the love of striped bass made him someone special. Whether fishing with his family or buds, he was in his element whenever on or near the water. Our prayers are with you and your family. God bless, “T.”

Note: Email us pics of your catches to share with our USA and international fishing friends who keep up with the latest fishing news and frequent social media.

For all things fishy including crabbing supplies, swing by the shop (203-245-8665) open seven days located at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison. Until next time from your Connecticut shoreline’s full-service fishing outfitter, where we don’t make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better...

Tight Lines,

Captain Morgan

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