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11/11/2024 11:56 AMWhat drives innovations in fishing tackle? Is it fish, forage, change in habitat, technology, or the never-ending drive to satisfy fishers in their quest for new and better products? In over 30 years of outfitting anglers and well over three-quarters of a century pursuing and catching fish, there are still piscators who tackle both the sweet and briny waters that say, “One of my best lures ever is one I have never been able to find anywhere.”
There is some truth to that. With all the advanced technology in materials and computer-based manufacturing, including 3D printing, whenever there is a vintage tackle or fly box with an old time treasure, many times, a hookup will follow - not necessarily due to the lure itself, but primarily knowing what to do with it.
After all, there has to be a reason why lists are published in well-known sports periodicals documenting the Top 50 or 100 lures ever made - some of which go back to the 1890s, and in the case of flies, it is Izaak Walton (c. 1593), and in ancient times, as far back as 2000 B.C. Change is a good thing - although not always immediately welcomed in the hand of an angler. Fishers of all ages are infatuated with old lures and fishing paraphernalia, actively collecting and displaying them in the most attractive ways. This old salt prefers to tie one on and go back in time to see how effective an old time idea is today. However, there is a limit to which rarity plays a part. It is called common sense.
The point of this input is to have you dig through your old stuff that has not been used in eons and give one of those favorites another go at life. Perhaps, a few may have even been used by a veteran who sacrificed much to serve our country. Get those lures back in shape by sharpening up or replacing hooks/split rings, checking/adjusting eyes and examining lips if present. Maybe add a dab of color here and there. Figure out what they are supposed to imitate and fish accordingly, using a little imagination as conditions dictate, and you might be surprised.
On The Water
Strong high pressure along the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic coasts moved east, leaving a void to be filled by a northern warm front lifting from the south. A cold front slowly approached and moved through the region before continuing to push southward, as high pressure built back in. Another cold front then passed through, leaving behind the 75-67-degree air temperatures in favor of those lowering well into the 40s. The 50-40s that were in play prior to sunrise eventually were taken over by some frosty low 30s. During that period of fluctuations, rain was scarce, further exacerbating drought conditions, as days mixed with sun, clouds, and wind continued to define this fall. Long Island Sound water temperatures varied from the high to mid-50s, and seas responded to fluctuating five to 20-knot gusty winds and one to three-foot seas.
Overall, the offshore bait supply has been intense, with squid and menhaden runs keeping a full array of tuna, dolphins, and whales in full feeding mode. Some forage has filtered into the Sound, firing up the striped bass bite and keeping them well within reach to fishers. Although many marinas have been steadily hauling vessels in order to stay ahead of a sudden weather-related/facilities shut-down, other fishers are stalling or moving into trailerables in order to take full advantage this prolonged season.
As of this writing, 40” striped bass are still holding tight, as well as some slots and smaller fish. Lately, there have been more fish caught between 28-31” on small baits, artificials, and flies. Pristine locations situated upriver and winding through the wetlands, anglers have found schools of hickory shad, feeding schoolie stripers and even jumbo white perch. Incoming tides are best but can be challenging, as these fish can turn finicky and ultra particular.
Since locations like these are also feeding waters during nesting times for ospreys, as indicated by a habitat-friendly nest seen on the horizon, it is no wonder fishing can be quite good. Spectacular sunsets are an added bonus. Unfortunately, they can momentarily distract one from the task at hand by interfering with concentration. Fortunately though, when a fish breaks the surface, it creates a memorable moment - especially when using a light setup.
As we take a bite out of November, vessels continue to be hauled, and more fishers are teaming up with those whose vessels are still wet. That number is quickly dwindling - even though the Sound’s water temperatures are fluctuating around the mid-to-high 50s. Blackfish (tautog) are responding by gradually moving into deeper water, but on unseasonably warm days, the walls continue to draw toggers. Togs in the seven to nine-pound range have been feeding on crabs and clams drawn in by mussel/clam-based chum. Simple rigs and jigs of varying sizes are most effective, however, a few of the larger fish are using rock crevices as leverage, causing toggers to break off. Nevertheless, patience and a little finesse can win that battle.
There is more going on in the Sound, including scup and black sea bass as well as a varied lineup of bait and other bottom fish. But it is the striped bass and blackfish bites that stir up most of the attention. Beyond that, transition to the freshwater. It is that good.
It has been warmer now than in early spring when stocking initially began. Trout continue to be stocked (44,935 at the last count) and caught by anglers taking full advantage of this stretch of unseasonably warm weather. We do need rain, and reminders of our drought conditions are apparent in the rivers and streams - even some lakes and ponds. Caution should be taken around any spawning beds. There have been good sized Seeforellen brown trout caught, as well as browns, brookies, and rainbows. Natural live and scented baits, inline spinners, and swimmers, along with an assortment of flies, have been and continue to be effective. Attention has also turned to Atlantic salmon, as stocking these have also begun in the Naugy and Shetucket rivers. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, pickerel, panfish, catfish, and bowfin remain very active.
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 the latest gear, flies/fly fishing, rods/reels, clam/crabbing supplies, fishing trips, licenses/permits, and much more, 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 and Authorized Penn Premium Dealer, where we don't make the fisherman, we make the fisherman better.
Tight Lines,
Captain Morgan
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