At one time or another, fishers everywhere have released a fish back into the drink and pondered how old it was. Often, they searched out an age chart that detailed lengths or weights of specific species that attempted a link to an approximate age. The subset of values taken from previous catches may be good enough for a ballpark figure, but generally, that’s where it stops.

We have all caught, or at least seen, what appeared to be short, heavy fish, as well as long, skinny fish, and have been surprised when a reliable scale revealed the actual weight. These numbers are arbitrary and, when applied to age determination, become more so. The point being: measuring a fish’s length and weighing it does not necessarily aid in determining its accurate age.

Age is an important component when looking to manage a fishery. How long it takes a fish to get from point A to point B assists scientists in determining how quickly a species’ biomass can realistically rebound and become sustainable, or for that matter, reach an over-fished state. The longer it takes a fish to achieve reproductive maturity, the more attention has to be given to its stock assessment. The sooner it reaches this stage, the more prolific that fishery becomes and the less vulnerable its sustainable biomass becomes.

Enter the detail-oriented fishery scientist. Near her is a variable speed, micro-precision table saw used in a precise way to cut through calcium carbonate. In another room is situated an extremely high-powered microscope synced to a computer that reveals the secret of determining a fish’s age.

Fish bodies are approximately the density of water, enabling sound to pass through them. Ear bones within the inner ear, however, are denser than the water. As a result, these bones, in response to sound waves, move slower than the water and the fish’s body. This difference in movement reacts with hair cells in the inner ear and is interpreted by the brain as sound. These ear bones are called otoliths.

Similar in nature to the inner rings of a tree, carefully counting the annuli (rings) on otoliths assists in determining the age of a fish and age-related data such as growth rates. For example, age data on black sea bass is sorely lacking. In order to effectively manage this species, especially when considering the warming trend of coastal Atlantic waters causing this fish’s gradual migration north, we need to understand its life cycle better. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission realizes the importance of a project like this and has prioritized its effort. Consequently, age evaluations as seen through the inner world of otoliths for this tasty, fun-to-catch fish will be more accurate.

On the Water

Fishing was fired up on Long Island Sound this past week. Water temperatures remained at 73 degrees and days were mostly pleasant, while menhaden, shad, and smaller baitfish proliferated the waters. Fall is here and soon the cold front will not only energize striped bass, but many other species enjoying their seasonal stay in Sound. Of course, October conditions are predictably unpredictable, so there will be the three W’s to contend with: wind, waves, and weather.

There was a hike in speedster catches this past week. From Montauk and Block and well into the Big Pond, both albies and bones have been slicing through the rips, chasing anchovies and other small baits. Epoxy flies and fast swimming metals have been effective when fished fast and leading the school. The temptation is to chase, however, if one uses a little patience and a sharp eye, the school will generally return during the feeding process. Tip: If you think your retrieve is fast enough, crank it up. There is no such thing as reeling in too fast!

This is the time of year when foraging is on the increase. Food from the rivers, schools of baitfish in the Sound, and others migrating through all are contributing to a whirlwind of great fishing—the best in several years. Perhaps, not only are fish priming themselves for the ultimate run, but they may be sensing a rougher road ahead compared to the mild one of last season.

A mix of small stripers and blues have been feeding together in some areas, offering anglers a chance at multiple hookups. Often, the fish were indiscriminate in their selection of food, including artificial baits. While tide, timing, and conditions normally have an impact, these midday bites randomly popped up. Early fishers have found double-digit, big-shouldered blues and hefty linesiders (mostly around sundown and later) in central to eastern Sound. Additionally, weakfish continue to feed just below it all.

The porgy bite is simply phenomenal and black seas bass just keep on feeding. These bottom fish have been outstanding all season. Bouncing from reef to reef might be necessary to locate the humpbacks, but it’s definitely worth the effort. Good scup, on the other hand, are being caught both on and offshore. Check out the snappers and hickories!

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 clam 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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