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THE BIG BOY

Fishing Report

 

OCTOBER 13, 2008

      What a treat this trip was as Shawn, Richs’ good friend and Operations Manager, was going to join us.   Rudy and I only get to see Shawn maybe once a year.  I spend a lot of time talking to him, as he’s the one solely responsible for creating and running this website.  All I do is type the reports.  Ok enough said let’s get to fishing.

     Bluefin was on the menu once again, so off to the Mudhole we went.  Drove around for almost an hour before setting the hook after finally seeing a small amount of life.  I was wondering if Shawn was going to be the bad luck charm and put an end to our successful bluefin run we have been on.  Well I quickly changed my mind after throwing some chunks as Rudy was dropping the hook, and saw fish on the finder immediately once again.  Took at least an hour before we managed our first bite and yes it was on the butterfly jig Rich had been working.  What do you know false albacore, and hoped the bluefins would follow as in the past.

     Rudy got a bite on the working line which usually works the best and handed it off to Shawn.  I won’t get into detail on how long this took, but Shawn did a great job on the rod, catching and releasing his first bluefin ever.  The fished probably was thirty some pounds.  Rich got one on the butterfly jig not long after Shawn’s release.  Once again the fish stayed under the boat all day as Rudy and I worked hard for some bites.  The tide was going to change soon so we stuck it out hoping they would turn on.

     Well they did not like mad dogs but we picked at them and broke at least three off.  Rich hooked a screamer on a free-floating bait.  This fish took us down half way into the spool on a thirty.  Well the fight was on, and after twenty minutes, a fifty one pound hit the deck.  It looked like the fish was tail wrapped and managed to get out, possibly having something to do with the long run.  What a beauty, this one went on ice, and Shawn and Rich fought three more bluefins up to forty some pounds.

     Well Shawn, you weren’t bad luck after all and it was great to have you out with us.  Thanks for the good times, laughs, and for putting up with my late fishing reports.

  

 

OCTOBER 10, 2008

     Rudy and I had the pleasure of taking John Capra and his two sons, Michael and Jonathan, out for some bluefin tuna action.  These guys are regulars and don’t need much in terms of instructions.   Arriving at sun up just a few miles from where we had been fishing in the Mudhole, things were looking fishy.

     As we were setting anchor the chunks were flying from the cockpit and once again before we were tight we had fish under the boat.   First fish to come over the side was a dogfish.  This isn’t what you want to see because we all know what a nuisance dogfish can be, but the fish finder was showing readings of tuna.  John finally hooked a false albacore on the butterfly jig and things were starting to look good.  Rudy got another jig in the water and we were soon hooked up to a small bluefin.  Jonathan made quick work of this little guy and was set free.  The day would continue in this fashion - pick through the albies and get a bluefin on.

     Michael also fought a nice fish; he and his brother would do this throughout the day with dad getting in on the action, as well bringing five fish to boat side up to forty pounds.  You guys are a great pleasure to have onboard hope to see you in the fall for Tautog and Stripers. 

  

 

OCTOBER 5, 2008

     Back out again for a try with the bluefins.  Rich’s friend, Donald, from Minnesota joined the crew for the day.  We set off for the Mudhole today as I got reports from a few friends that this area was holding some fish.  It didn’t take long before we set up on the anchor after driving over some good readings on the fish finder.

     Before the anchor was tight we were marking fish on the finder streaking up into the chunks.   Within minutes we had our first false albacore on, and it was quickly followed by a bluefin.   The butterfly jig proved to be deadly once again as it was accounting for most of the fish.   The fish stayed under the boat all day and we tried everything to get more bites.   They didn’t respond to twenty pound test so we just waited them out and kept working.  Patience and hard work paid off as Donald got his first bluefin.   After a short fight the fish was boated and released after a quick photo. 

     We ended the day with four bluefins up to forty pounds with one on ice and released two dozen false albacores.  Was nice to only have to run twenty four miles back to the inlet.

 

 OCTOBER 4, 2008

      Finally we are back out after being held in port due to weather.  Rich, Rudy, and myself headed out for bluefin in the area of the Glory Hole.  We arrived at sun up and spent a little time looking around.  There was a small fleet in the area and they weren’t doing much, so we moved a little north and set up on the drift since conditions were favorable for it.  Wasn’t long before we started catching false albacore.   These are so much fun to catch on light tackle.  We even set one up on the kite hoping for a big mako; however the wind just didn’t cooperate.

     Finally we had a fish that could take some drag.   As Rich got it up closer to the boat we could see color on a thirty-some pound bluefin.  We managed to pick two more fish, one was on a butterfly jig and the others were all on bait.  The fish were thirty to fifty pounds in size.   We kept our one fish and released the others.  For those of you who don’t know the regulations on bluefin tuna our permit only allows us to keep one bluefin between 27 and 47 inches.  You are allowed another however it has to be over 47 inches and not greater than 73.  Last but not least you are allowed one more fish over 73 inches which classifies that as a giant bluefin, and this falls under the trophy division.  This only allows you to catch a fish of this size once and only once within one year.

  

 

SEPTEMBER 13, 2008 

     My brother Max made a trip with me for bluefin as Rich and Rudy were tied up with other plans.  We fished on the Reg.26 and headed to a spot where some bigger bluefins were being caught some 43 miles from the inlet.  After a bumpy ride out we arrived on the grounds along with a large fleet of boats.  From what we saw and heard on the radio things were very quiet.

     We marked a few fish but they didn’t stick around.  A few hours later we got fish on which quickly turned into a double header.  I pulled the hook on mine and we chased Max’s fish around the boat only to have the unimaginable happen - the fish quickly changed direction and was heading towards the surface.  Next thing you know a basking shark jumps out of the water right next to the boat with our line wrap around him.  The line broke as we stood in disbelief and wondered what the chances were of that happening.  Well, it was a beautiful day and the seas laid down for a fast enjoyable ride home.

  

SEPTEMBER 3-4, 2008

      The annual Manasquan River Club tournament was in full effect and Team Big Boy was ready for the challenge.  The tournament runs for 10 days and you have your choice of 2 day trolls, or fishing 40 hours.  We picked to fish forty hours, and we for fished for 30 of the forty hours.  Our team was Rich, our good friend Cliff from Connecticut, Rudy, and myself.

     We departed the inlet midnight, set on a course for the east wall of the Hudson.  Here I was hoping we could pick up an eyeball (Big Eye Tuna).  There was no doubt in my mind that’s what would win the tuna division.  Two or maybe three weeks ago, this area had a good bite going on and has died considerably since then.

     On the grounds by sun up we only had a few other boats working the area and they didn’t have much to report.  After a few hours drilling the area, and no signs of any life, I decided we would head up the shelf towards The Dip.   The temp charts showed a good break up that way.  This was our plan from the start if the 100 Square was dead.  Trolled for a few hours in the direction of our destination and soon picked up and ran.  The distance between the two canyons is about 33 miles.

     We stopped short of the Dip and put the lines out as we came across the temp break.  Just inside the break we started to see life.  We were the only ones there and it was looking fishy.    We soon found mounds of bait and whales by the dozens feeding on it along with some porpoise.  After a few hours of pulling my hair out we finally got bit.   Three lines go screaming off only to lose one right off the bat.  The first fish to hit the deck was a 60 lb. yellowfin which Cliff made quick work of.  The second, which Rich was fighting, gave us quite a tussle and by judging the way it was acting I thought for sure this was going to be a big eye.  About 10 minutes later we could just see color, and the rod was still lapped over.  As the tuna got closer we soon realized it was no monster or a big eye.  The hook caught the tuna in the side making the battle harder than usual.  Another 60 lb. yellowfin on ice.

     We trolled right into dark pounding the area and dodging whales, had a few shots at some white marlin but no luck.   Also got to see some huge Manta Rays sky rocketing out of the water.   Set up on the drift out off the shelf where the bait was, hoping for a night bite and a shot at some swordfish.

     The squid showed up, the porpoise showed up, the tuna didn’t nor any swordfish.  However for a split second after setting a deep live squid with a glow light my spirits were lifted.  The bait wasn’t in the water for more than five minutes when the rod started to lap over.  I yelled to Cliff we were on a big sword, but when it didn’t take a run I knew right away we had a Manta Ray.  Rich came out and fought the beast.  While that was going, another ray, which we saw jump out of the water next to the boat with the line hanging out of its mouth.  Luckily the leader broke unfortunately I had to reel back in three quarters of line.  Got the ray up to the boat and took a few picks of the 400 lb. ray and Rudy cut the leader close for clean release.

     In the morning we were back on the troll in the dark with our fingers crossed hoping for some big eyes.  Well they came up just an eight of a mile from us.  The bad news is that another boat from the tournament came out that night and just happened to be in the right spot at the right time.  He called us over and we gave it hell until noon without a single bite.  Well I give our team an A plus for effort, dedication, and stamina.  Great job everyone as usual.

 

 

AUGUST 19, 2008

 Hey what do you know we are on our way back out to the Hudson for a day troll.  Onboard we have Rich, his father Jack for his first canyon trip ever, Constantine and his Uncle John, and Richs' friend Scott.  We departed Hoffman’s at midnight and had a full moon to enjoy for the entire ride.  We set course for the 100 Square where there was still an on-and-off bite for bigeyes.  This was really the only game in town as we are still wondering when the yellowfins are going to show up.

Arriving just before sunrise my thoughts of a big fleet came true.  To much disappointment a big fleet in one spot doesn't fair well for fishing.  Out of two dozen boats only three fish were caught and by 1pm most of the boats had left.  We continued working the area hoping maybe they would come up and feed.  Well they didn't but we did manage to find a hungry white marlin snapping at one of our custom spreader bars.

We were trolling four bars and four ballyhoo.  This marlin wanted the bar in the worst way but quickly changed his mind when Rudy dropped the flat line with a ballyhoo on his bill.  The marlin quickly came for the bait, but missed it and went back to the bar.  So Rudy put the bait in his face once again and got him to bite and stuck the hook on the third try.  John fought the fish to boat side where the marlin then went crazy leaving a nice bill mark across Rudy’s stomach.  A few quick photos and the 65-70 lb. class marlin were released.  Great trip guys and congratulations on your first canyon trip Jack you are amazing.

 

 AUGUST 13, 2008 

Headed offshore to the Hudson with the Bill Heidt charter for a day troll.  Left the dock at 12:30 am and arrived in the Hudson on the west wall before sunrise.  The fishing reports were still spotty with only a few boats putting together a catch of just a couple fish.  Well we hoped our luck would continue after our last trip.  Found an area that looked fishy and stuck out there for a while producing one undersized yellowfin tuna, which was released.  A friend of ours was working the same area with the same results, small undersize tuna.  At least the whales and dolphin were keeping the charter occupied while I tried to find some action.  Well having three radios on the boat paid off.  I heard two guys talking back and forth, and then telling his buddy to go to the other channel.  Well I found them on there secret channel and used the radio directional finder to locate there approximate location.  With the info I was able to hear and a good idea where they were fishing I steered the boat across the canyon to the east side.  At least I knew this guy had caught a few tunas and figured it was better than where we were.  His buddy had gone two for three on bigeyes so we changed our spread and fished strictly for bigeyes.

For anyone who had seen or caught a bigeye they normally run over a hundred pounds and are mean fish.  Also when you get hit by them it usually not just one fish but what we refer to as a "wolf pack."  Typically you can get a fish on ever line however landed all is a task even for the most seasoned crews.

We weren't in the area for more than thirty minutes and had located the two guys that were talking on the radio.  Well there was a third boat in the same area and he had just encountered a wolf pack of bigeyes.  So the weekend warrior gets on the radio and gives his exact position to the world.  Well we were hoping to get a bite before a million boats showed up, that didn't happen.  Within minutes you could see boats steaming towards our location on the horizon.  The reason I'm a bit salty about this is because when you put a ton of boats on top of a school of feeding fish it tends to automatically turn them off.

Well ten boats isn't too bad and I was anxiously waiting for a bite.  My anxiety was through the roof and finally as Rudy was standing next to me, I looked over at the screen on the fish finder and there they were.  That’s exactly what I yelled out, followed by watch the lines.  We had nine lines in the water and just as I finished advising the charter, it looked like some one was dropping bombs off behind our boat.  Every lure got hit multiple times and when the water settled we had two drags screaming out.  Nine would've been nice but two is better than none.

We cleared the lines and got ready to do business.  The first fish was subdued in rather short time, much because it was on a bent butt 80W, a heavy rod and reel.  The other fish was on a 50w and I figured this fish would go through the entire charter, well I was wrong.  This one gentleman did a fantastic job on the rod and we had a gaff in the fish in thirty minutes.  What a difference when you get someone who actually listens to your instructions on how to fight a fish.  A job well done guys.  The bigeyes weighed 117 lbs. and 127 lbs.

 

 AUGUST 9, 2008

 Finally our first canyon trip of the season and with the reports not that good it was still great to get out to that blue water.  Rich, Pete, Doug, and Dougs son David were on board with us for an overnight in the Hudson.  Got to the grounds with a few hours of daylight left and went on the troll.  The water was beautiful on the west wall where we found our first pelagic specie of the year a white marlin.  Rich fought the fish and made quick work as Rudy wired and released the sixty pounder.  Back on the troll till dark produced nothing until we were reeling in the lines.  A forty pound yellowfin just couldn't say no to one of our custom spreader bars.

The night chunk was very slow.  We had plenty of squid around the boat all night.  The only two bites were a small mahi and a small yellowfin that was released.  We went on the troll before the sun was up and worked the area where we had spent the night drifting.  With all that bait around I hoped we could find some tuna.  It wasn't until 8:30 before we had our second yellowfin of the trip on.  What a beauty this fish was going sixty plus pounds.  I had great marks on the machine and continued to work the area hard.  It paid off with another big yellowfin in the sixty pound class.

As the action slowed I ventured off to the north a little where I saw some life on the surface.  As we were approaching the school of pilot whales I had some great marks on the finder, so I turned around and watched three yellowfin crush the lures behind the boat one by one.  The battle was on, Rich and his friends did an excellent job fighting the fish and staying untangled.  The two fish were 72 lbs. and 76 lbs. The third went 81 lbs.  We worked the area with no action and continued north towards the pilot whales and dolphin frolicking on top.  As we trolled in the mist of whales and dolphin we were attacked by a school of white marlin.

The first marlin was very big and jumped off right away.  We then had a second up, much smaller than the other and got that one to bite a pitch bait.  Had that fish bite us three times on the ballyhoo only we didn't manage to get the hook in.  The third was hitting a spreader bar while Rudy was trying to get a hook in his friends mouth.  Oh well… that’s the way it goes sometimes.  What a great trip full of action, calm seas, and great company.

  

 

AUGUST 8, 2008 

We had a bunch of friends and relatives of Richs' on the boat - Mark, Jonathan, Sara, and Steven Higger, along with Mike.  On our way out towards the Axel Carlson Reef I spotted numerous large fish breaking the surface.  So we stopped and put out at the spoons.  It didn't take long before the drags were singing out with a pair of big bluefish.   We caught and released numerous bluefish which the kids had a blast with.  Switched over to fluking on the Reef, fishing the out skirts of some sticky bottom producing throwbacks and only a couple of keepers.

  

AUGUST 5, 2008

 Had Rich and two friends of his, Stanley and Pete, on the boat today for fluke.  Was a nice day and good company despite the south wind and outgoing tide.  The fishing was slow with no keepers and a bunch of throw backs.  If the fishing wasn't bad enough a severe thunderstorm was baring down on us making a perfect ending to our day.

  

AUGUST 3, 2008

Had the Jim Ramstaler charter out for an inshore day troll for bluefins.  We started the day fishing in and around the area of the Resor, reading lots of bait just north we drilled the area producing our first school bluefin.  That fish was quickly returned to the sea along we the bluefish that kept plaguing us.  Listening to the radio there wasn't much at all going on and the day was getting late, so we made a move up towards the Slough where we found some great looking water along with some bait.

It wasn't long up on the troll before I spotted a school of fish out to the east.  We weren't sure what they were until we got right up on them.  Sure enough they were bluefins and they were hungry.  We got six fish to jump on boating all and keeping one for the table.  They were twenty five to thirty pound fish.  With the school back up we made multiple passes on them and different strategies only getting one strike.

Was a great way to end the day with a good bunch of guys.  For some it was there first tuna.  Congratulations.

 

AUGUST 2, 2008 

We fished a club tournament on Saturday for fluke.  We hit a few of our known sticky bottom spots looking for just one big fluke.  Well these spots didn’t pay off and I’m hoping it was due to the lousy fishing conditions of tide against wind.  We ended the day a little early as a severe thunderstorm was barreling down on us.  Rich, and his two friends Stan and Pete were onboard for the day. 

 

JULY 15-23, 2008 

As we do yearly we were on our way up to the Vineyard for the Monster Shark Tournament once again.  This is always a great trip to fish and visit.  Was a real treat to fish in calm seas this year and not have to contend with any tropical storms, as we did the past two years.

The first day we fished a great temp. break with poor water clarity on the one side.  The blue sharks didn’t seem to mind one bit.  At times we had as many as four blues swimming around the boat.  On the second we tried a different area hoping to get away from the blue sharks and find a thresher.  Well as fate would have it the blue sharks found us.  We had one bite from a mako on a whole dead bluefish but failed to get the hook in the right spot.  Had some great company on board; Rich, his cousin Lou, friends of ours that we met three years ago fishing this tournament, Cliff and his son Fred.

Fluke fishing was great as usual.  Rich, Rudy, and I put a great catch together in just sixty minutes one day. We took Richs’ cousin       and his wife     along with Lori out one day as well.  Conditions were horrible but we managed a good catch.  Later that day we drove the boat down to Menemsha Harbor for a lobster roll lunch.  Yummmmm!  Great lunch and wonderful trip.  Thanks everyone.

 

JULY 3, 2008 

Had Rich, Laurie, Ross, and Richs, nephew Josh out again for a go with some bluefish.  Had them going for a little while on the drift,  picking a fish here and there.  The action then came to a holt.  We looked around for awhile looking for some reading but the fish finder was blank.  We did a lot of bunkers and even some whales just east of the Farms.

 

JULY 1, 2008 

Had Rich, Laurie, and her son Ross out for a shot at some fluke.  The fluke didn’t really turn on.  Had a couple keepers and some throwbacks.  We tried multiple spots all yielding the same results.

  

JUNE 28, 2008 

Took Rich and Doug out for a day of sharking.  We fished some ten to twelve miles west of where we had been fishing.  Here we found  some action with the blue sharks, a brown shark, and a small mako that ate our live bluefish off the kite as we were calling it a day.

 

JUNE 21, 2008

 Had our annual customers charter us again for the two tournaments, but for just one day.  Fishing was ok with multiple blue shark releases through out the day and a small mako.  Was great having the guys back on the boat.  Dominick don’t be a stranger we missed you this year.

  

JUNE 20, 2008

 Rudy and I fished one day of the Jersey Coast Shark Anglers Tournament in the Regulator.  We ran out towards the Virginia Wreck some 55 miles and found some decent water to fish.

Had our first shark on before I could even attach the float, which turned out to be a blue shark.  We released several blue sharks along with some browns and a small mako.  Had a mako on for a minute, that jumped and spit the hook which had to be close to 300 lbs.  Would have been nice to of boated that one.

 

JUNE 17, 2008

      Ran up to the north and fished off Asbury in 60 feet of water with a friend of ours who runs a sportfisherman named the Bedrock.   Here we put a hurting on the bass with multiple triple hook ups.  Most of the bites where on top with the live bunkers. We probably caught twenty five bass in an hour and a half.  We released all the fish that weighed up to 35 pounds.

 

JUNE 15, 2008

      As we usually do on Father’s Day weekend we went bass fishing on the Regulator.  On board were Rich and his father Jack, my father Bill, and Rudy.  We had a beautiful morning and a full live well of bunkers ready for some hungry bass.

     Ran up to the north and fished out in 60 feet of water just south of were we had them good earlier in the week.  Marked some fish right away and got them to come up on some free baits we through over to try and hold them.  We got one and weren’t able to hold them.  So back on the prowl we went.  Went further up to the north where there was a large fleet of boats, where we would just turn around.  I hate fishing in a large fleet of boats your chances aren’t as good.

     Back where we started we went on the drift.  It paid off with some great surface action once again.  Was great to share the experience with Jack and my father, its something they don’t get to see everyday.  By noon everyone had a bass and it was time to head in.  The fish ranged from the low twenty pound class up to thirty three pounds.  We kept five.

 

JUNE 11, 2008

      Had John Capra and his two sons out Wednesday looking for a repeat of yesterdays bass trip.  Well it took some time before we found some fish.  For some reason the fish weren’t where they were 24 hours ago, and I hate telling people they should have been here yesterday.  Four hours past, before we finally got into some action.  The pods of bunker in along the beach were holding some big fish. 

     As we moved from pod to pod we could tell which were holding fish and  which were not.  The first fish was caught by Johns’ son Johnathan that weighed in at 41 pounds.  Soon followed by his brother Michael that tipped the scales to 35 pounds.  John finally got in on the action with a 40 pound monster as well.  The fourth fish went 32 pounds.

     Patience is a key in fishing to unlock what lies below the ocean and Capra boys had it and paid off in the long run.  After putting in overtime with these guys it still wasn’t enough so they did some surf fishing with what little day light was left.

 

JUNE 10, 2008

      Back home and a few pounds heavier Rudy, Rich, and I went out for a few hours early Tuesday morning.  Netted some bunkers first thing, through em in the well and ran up to the north.  The first few spots we checked were horrible.  Then I got a hunch to run out into some deeper water were we caught some really nice fish in years past.

     It paid off big time.  We marked some fish and sent the baits out and it was instant.  The fish were all large and most of the action was on the surface.  If you’ve never seen bass feed on live bunker on the surface, you are really missing out. WOW.  We kept only three fish that went 31,36,and 42 pounds.  A great few hours of fishing.

 

JUNE 6, 2008 

     On Thursday Rudy and I ran the Regulator up to Stratford, Ct.  We would eventually meet up with Rich here to fish another one of the ASA bass tournaments. 

     Well as our luck would have it we hit a submerged log just five miles from our destination.  Tearing off one of our blades on the propeller we had to come in on one engine.  The next morning we had a new matching set of propellers and were on our way for a half day of practice fishing.

     New to the area we looked at the GPS and found some spots that looked would be productive.  We hit a number of spots that looked great, however we didn’t see any fish.  We even found some pods of bunker that only had bluefish on them.  Well at least we would have some fresh bait for Saturday.

     Well Saturday morning brought us another treat, fog with near zero visibility.  Joy just what every captain loves, especially when we had to run 49 miles to our destination.  Once we arrived we found other boats from the tournament fishing the same spot.  Through out the day we marked fish and only saw one caught out of thirty some boats.  Hoping and waiting that the tide change would trigger them to bite was a waste of time, the fish never turned on.  Well as Rudy put it, “ even Tiger Woods doesn’t always finish.”

     We had a great time exploring a new area and have a better feel for it come next year.  I also can’t wait to go back for the pizza.  Rich promised us the best pizza we could ever have, well he was right.  We ate at  Sally's in New Haven where we also met up with Mike (aka; fisheye).  This is a family run restaurant that dates back into the late 30’s.  All they serve is pizza and boy I wish the bass ate like I did that night.

 

JUNE 1, 2008

      On Sunday we took Rich out on the Regulator, in search of some bass.  Well with the water temperature reading 49 – 53 degrees I had a feeling bass fishing would be slow.  Sure enough we covered some ground south of the inlet without ever marking a single fish.  The bunkers were there in full force just no bass.

  

MAY 25, 2008

As much as I hate fishing on the weekends do to boat traffic, they can have their moments later on in the day.  When most people are heading home, some of the best fishing does occur in the late afternoon and early evening when conditions are just right.  As this is what Rich, and his two nephews, Evan and Josh, would soon encounter.  One of those days you just never forget.

     We departed Hoffman’s some where around two o’clock and headed to the southeast where I could see a fleet about two miles offshore.  There were definitely fish there, bluefish not what we wanted, well that was up until I told Evan we had a chance of catching some fish that may be as long as he is tall.  With that said Evan replied, “ I can reel in anything.”  So we continued our search for some bass.

     There was another fleet in towards the southwest just about on the beach.  These guys were either fluking or fishing the pods of bunker we had heard news of earlier in the week.  They were in the bunkers and man were they thick.  The only thing wrong was nobody out forty some boats were fighting a fish, so I told Rich we would troll the spoons and keep an eye open.  It wasn’t long before we marked some fish down away from the fleet and watched a guy releasing a big bass along the side of his boat.  After seeing what I saw and the spoons not getting a hit after going over some fish I knew it was time for the live bait.  Told Rich to reel em' up and that we were switching over.

      I put Rich on the wheel as I got the cast net out and told Evan and Josh to get ready.  We slowly moved in on the bunkers and with one swift throw of the net we had thirty some baits flopping on the deck.  As we were putting the baits in the live well I informed Josh that we were going to use these as bait to catch the bass. I got this look of disbelief, it was priceless.

     As Rich and I were dropping the baits down and trying to explain to the kids on what to do, Rich yelled out he had a nervous bait and Josh was up front yelling that something was pulling his line out.  Wow I think we were 0 for 6 before Rich got a hook to stay in, and before u knew it we had two fish on. Rich helped Josh guide his first bass into the net, man what a beauty 33 lbs.  That would be the biggest of the day but all the other fish were in the low to mid twenty pound bracket.  Evan’s biggest went 26 lbs.  We kept only six fish and released well over a dozen more.  As we got down to our last few baits the fish finder was lit up with marks, there had to be twenty plus fish on the screen. We even had the bass eating our baits on the surface a sight you will never forget.

     With the live well empty, a tired and cold crew, and a fabulous few hours of fishing we left em' biting for another day.  I think Evan talked Josh into a conspiracy against me for my job, as the two of them, took turns driving the boat back to the inlet.  I think I’m safe for a few more years at least until one of them learns how to throw a cast net.  Enjoy the pics. I think they speak for themselves.  Oh yeah and about Evan reeling in anything, well I’ll leave that up to him to explain.

 

 

 MAY 24, 2008

I heard the bunkers were in the ocean, in great numbers down to the south. With our time running out on our slip in Highlands, I figured it was time to head back to Hoffman’s Marina.  Since Rudy and I would be passing some of our favorite fishing spots no trip would be complete with out wetting a line.

     After netting close to a hundred baits, in Atlantic Highlands harbor we were on our way to the Rocks.  Arriving on the grounds we found a small fleet working the area out towards the bell buoy.  So we looked around and dropped some baits on a few marks.  The bass were there and showed very little interest in our live bait, as they would just pick it up, run with it and drop it.  With the fish hanging in the middle of the water column, the wind and tide working against us it could only mean one thing.  That’s right time to drag the spoons out.

     As much as we love and prefer to fish live bait there are days that the bunker spoons will out fish them.  It was only a matter of minutes as we got the lines set before we had our first bass on.  For the next two hours we caught bass that ranged from 15 lbs to 20 lbs. with the heaviest going 25lbs. We called it an early day and headed for home. 

     Rich - good luck in your 5k race today!

 

MAY 17, 2008

     It was that time of year again, just one week earlier than usual.  That’s right the ASA Bahr’s Landing Tournament was in town and for only one day.  We had our usual crew; Rich, Rudy, and yours truly.  This is one of our favorite tournaments of the year to fish. Your two heaviest fish would hold your fate at the scales.

     We were up in the Navesink by 4:30 am looking for some live bunker.  We found them and made one throw netting us 103 pieces.  With the live well full we were back at Bahr’s waiting for the 6:00 am start.  The only thing left now was making the decision on where we were going to fish.  I had two spots in mind and just had to pick wondering if we would be heroes or zeros.

     Well we were on our way and hoped this spot would pay off.  As we arrived and looked over the area, we set up and started fishing.  It wasn’t long before Rudy had one on.  It was a bass and a decent one too.  The boga grip showed 24 lbs. Great start and knew we would need a similar size fish to place.  Wasn’t long till we had another fish in the boat, that went 18 lbs.  Things were looking good and soon only to look even better, as Rudy had yet another good fish on.  After a brief fight the bass was finally netted.  This beauty went 25 lbs. and left us with a sigh of relief knowing we had two very respectful fish to weigh in.

     We pounded this area all day and were able to catch and release five more bass.  The scales were open and it was going to be a sloppy ride home as the winds were gusting to 30 mph.  Back at Bahrs we dried off and watched the boats ahead of us off load their catch.  I was confident we would place top five yet nervous.

     At the scales our combined weight was 49.75 pounds placing us third only ounces away from the second place finisher and only 2 1\2 pounds from first.  Job well done by our crew.  This is the third time we have placed in the money, with an eighth place, a second place, and now a third place finish.  Not bad for team big boy once again.

 

MAY 11, 2008

Had Rich and his father Jack out for a few hours on Mother’s Day. Rudy and I netted some live bait early in the morning up in the Navesink before meeting up with the father son duo.  We left Bahr’s and headed out into the bay in search of some bass.

     As we were approaching our destination we noticed a few bunkers leaping out of the water in fear for there lives.  With that I pulled em back and we dropped down a few live bunker.  The fish finder was showing life and it was only a matter of a few seconds before we had our first fish of the day on.  Unfortunately it was a bluefish followed by yet another.  I had heard the bluefish were thick and bass were few and far between.

     Well this proved to be true as we moved from spot to spot the bluefish were there and in great numbers.  At one point I advised that nobody fall in the water in regards to being eaten alive by bluefish. Anyway, we did manage one bass before headed home.   THANKS MOM FOR LETTING ME GO FISHING!

 

 APRIL 24, 2008

Rich, his brother Jeff and his son Evan, and I made a half day trip out of the Highlands on the LBB.  We were going to give it one last shot at the flounders before they departed.  Ran up in the Navesink to find nothing, along with a stop in the Shrewsbury also to find no flatties.  We then made a move out into the Sandy Hook Bay and tried our luck near the Coast Guard Station.  Upon our arrival there was a small fleet fishing with a couple head boats.  We dropped the hook and started chumming heavy.  Saw one head boat pick a couple of fish and another make multiple moves.  With that said I figured we would slip around the corner and try a few drifts in the Rip for stripers.

      As we went over the Rip the fish finder was showing some small scattered marks.  On the first drift Evan wasn’t on the bottom for more than a couple seconds when he yelled he had one.  To much of our surprise Evan reeled in a whopper of a flounder that weighed 2 ½ lbs.  That tells me the fish are making there way out and we should’ve been on the ocean side of the hook fishing for flounders, oh well.  Anyway the next drift Rich caught the first bluefish of the season, about  2lbs., and his brother was bitten off by another.  Just before calling it quits the first fluke of the season was caught, by Evan.  After a few pictures we let the estimated 2 ½ pounder go, since the season doesn’t open for some time yet.

     Just my second trip of the year and I got some time off from behind the wheel as Richs’ nephew Evan who is 10 years old drove the boat back to port.  He’s a natural, I hope Rich doesn’t get any ideas?

 

 

The Reg.26 or the LBB will be running out of Bahr’s Landing for the next five or six weeks depending on the bass fishing.  The Big Boy should be in the water and running trips no later than May 15th, CALL NOW AND BOOK YOUR CHARTER.      

 

APRIL 15, 2008

Well we’re back, after three months off we made our first trip of the season.  Rudy and I ran the Reg. 26 aka: ( the Little Big Boy) up to Bahr’s Landing in Highlands where we met up with Rich.  We set out for winter flounder fishing on a beautiful spring day.

     First stop was off of Earle Naval Pier, fishing here was slow so we moved off of the Sandy Hook Coast Guard Station.  We found the same results here as well.  So I figured to go try back in the Navesink River.  Once again first stop revealed no life so we moved even further back.  After about a half hour and a tide change the fish finally bite.  We had a few double headers and even a triple putting seventeen flatties in the box with only one throwback.  Most of the fish were of nice size with Rich taking the pool winner at just over two lbs. 

 

NOVEMBER 6, 2007

    Rudy and I ran the LBB out to the reef to investigate on how the tautog and sea bass were doing.   Found some ok activity and picked away at both species.  NOVEMBER 15TH - BLACKFISH SEASON OPENS!

 

NOVEMBER 4, 2007

     Ran up to the Shrewsbury Rocks for a go at some bass.  Threw the spoons out looking for some larger fish.  First fish was 18 lbs. followed by a short and another keeper.  Our best two fish we had on we dropped unfortunately, looks like things should start to heat up.  Heard Montauk was on fire with big bass - let's hope they pay us a visit.  Rich and his brother Mike were out on the boat today.

 

THE BIG BOY IS BOOKING CHARTERS FOR BASS AND WRECK FISHING THROUGH DECEMBER.

 

OCTOBER 30, 2007

     Threw a last minute trip together with Rich his son's friend Josh, and a good friend of mine Pat we were off for the 106 mile run to the Wilmington Canyon.  This would be Josh's first trip to the edge.  As we got close to our destination we watched the temp. Gauge on the fish finder hoping it would soon show some signs of rising higher than 63.  It soon jumped up a few degrees right in the area we were going to spend the night.  With calm conditions we dropped the anchor in 650 ft. and got to work.

     We picked at the tuna on and off through the night, all long fin that went 50 - 60 lbs.  Rich let Josh take the first one and Josh quickly found out it wasn't like bass fishing.  After a good battle the fish was brought to gaff and we all congratulated Josh.  I do believe Pat got a good whooping on Rudy's jigging rod as well.

      Everyone worked really hard and from the chatter on the radio it sounded like most boats only had half a dozen fish mostly long fin and a yellow here and there.  We ended up going 5 for 6 with a few small mahi's thrown in.  Beautiful night, calm seas, and good times... a good way to say the least to end the season.

 

OCTOBER 13, 2007

     Made a run out to the Hudson for an overnight trip with Rich and his friend Art Roth, and Rudy's Uncle Lou.  We were able to troll up one longfin before the sun set on the East Wall.  We then set up for the night chunk on the 100 Square in less than favorable conditions.  We were the only sport boat out that night along with a few headboats.  Another NOAA mess up. 

    We had plenty of bait in the 67.8 degree water and hundreds of porpoise that never left us alone.  All night we were plagued by them and when they finally did leave we had one shot at the tuna.  We went 1 for 3 on yellowfins and had to pull the plug early do to prior commitments.  The ride home was absolutely horrible way to go NOAA.  The tuna were in the 40 - to 60 pound class.

 

OCTOBER 1, 2007

 Rudy and I took the LBB out to the edge of the mudhole looking for some bluefins.  Fished the Monster Ledge area where we saw lots of bait on the finder but a lack of tuna. Sounds like it's been hit or miss lately, one day they're here and the next they're gone.

 

SEPTEMBER 22-23, 2007

     Had the Ashdee Charter out for an overnight chunking trip to the Hudson Canyon.  Arriving a little early to the grounds, we trolled up the East side of the canyon before finding our home for the night.  The troll produced three longfins in the 40-50lb class.  The first longfin came just inside the east elbow, which came inhaled a 13" squid spreader bar intended for a bigeye - but hey... take that any day.  The other two fish came on the troll east of the elbow, also eating the big squid bars.

From the chatter on the radio and the looks of the radar, the 100 Square was going to be a parking lot due to the previous two days of fishing and calm seas.  We figured our chances would be better away from the crowd, so we headed to the opposite side of the canyon.  As we were coming up on the 150/050 area, we found a great weed line and a good temperature break of two degrees.  With the calm seas, we decided to drift, leaving us with the option to run back to the 100 Square if we heard that it was good.  As we ran up the edge, the fish finder was showing good signs of fish and bait.  With a perfect drift along and out over the edge, we hoped the fish would show soon.

Well, the fish never showed in great numbers.  We'd mark one here and there, but nothing would stay or taste our live squid.  Finally, somewhere around 4:30, we marked a small school under the boat, getting one on and in the box... a nice 70lb yellowfin.  With half a bucket of chunks thrown in just 10 minutes, we couldn't get the school to stay.  We headed for home around 6:30, since some of the crew had to get to a wedding.  Wonderful bunch of guys who stayed up with us most of the night, and helped out in the cockpit.  Thanks guys, and we hope to see you again.

 

SEPTEMBER 7-8, 2007

     The Big Boy entered the Manasquan River Club Tournament as we are now official members.  The club holds the same tournament. every year and you have a choice of doing two day trolls or one 40 hour trip within the ten days scheduled.  Well we all agreed that we would fish the 40 hrs.  So as we prepared the boat Rich got a crew together.  Onboard we would have Rich, Stanley, Glenn, Martin, Scott, Rudy and myself.
     Leaving at midnight we would arrive at our destination just before sunrise.  The tip of the Hudson is where we would begin this journey.  We would spend the entire day trolling specifically for big eyes knowing these fish are usually over 100 lbs. and have the best chance of winning.
     Well the troll was productive mainly for longfins and where there are longfins there is usually some big eyes.  With five longfins in the box we started releasing them so we would have room for some yellowfin and hopefully a big eye.  We were soon blessed by the tuna gods with a big eye.  Rich got the fish to the boat in just about ten minutes were Rudy leadered the fish up and we stuck two gaffs in the 140 lb. big eye.  This was what we were looking for let's hope it's big enough.
     Back on the troll we worked the area hard as we also saw another boat fighting a big fish.  With only a few more longfins and two yellowfins we started to troll towards the 100 square where we would spend the night chunking for yellowfin.   We would spend the night about three miles north of the 100 square.
     Dropped the anchor in about 600'  where we had some good bait readings.  The night bite never really turned red hot for us.  We had a steady pick on and off  of yellowfins and longfins.  Live squid and sardines worked best.  By morning we had a total of  7 yellowfins and our release on longfins was up to thirteen. 
     Back on the troll we headed towards where we had the big eye.  We would spend most of the day in this general area.  With only an hour to go before we would have to depart for home we started marking a lot of fish on the finder.  There were definitely big eyes down there and it would only be a matter of waiting for them to come up and feed.  Well they never did and we were out of time.  We did manage to release another four longfins.
     Back at the scales we disappointed to learn that our fish was currently fourth and only first and second were payouts.  Overall we had a great time and good fishing with one eye ball at 140 lb.,7 yellowfin 60 - 80 lbs. and 5 longfin 40 - 60lb. along with 17 longfin releases no complaints here.

 

AUGUST 30, 2007

Ran the boat down to Atlantic City for a couple of days with Rich onboard to take some very good friends of his out fishing.  We left the slip around 9am on a beautiful sunny, flat, and calm day.  Onboard The BIG BOY for the day were Gene, Jake, Michael, Art, Ricky, and Jared.  After the six mile ride out, we reached the Atlantic City Reef where we would spend the day drifting for fluke and sea bass.

Well, it may have been too calm, because there wasn't much drift to be had... hampering our chances for a great catch.  With the fishing starting to slow, we stuck it out and were able to put a decent catch together.  The highlight of the trip, excluding the best bagels and philly cheesesteaks that I have ever had, was when a small school of mahi's came up to the boat.  We quickly, threw spearing into the water to keep them interested while we got a light tackle rod rigged up.  In no time we had a 10lb mahi on, and Jacob took up to the bow for the fight of his life.  After some strong runs on the ten pound tackle - Jacob caught his first mahi.  Give this kid a few more years and he is going to be one great fisherman.

After a wonderful day of good company, food, fishing, and weather... it was time for The BIG BOY to head west toward that Atlantic City Horizon.

Some pictures from the trip, and very nice cards send my Mike and Jacob:

 

AUGUST 27, 2007
 

     I gave one of our usual customers and friend a call informing him that the fishing was hot offshore.  Dominick replied " what time are we leaving?"  Dominick charters the boat every year for Mako Mania and Jersey Coast Tournament, along with some trips offshore to the canyon.  Everyone from the Big Boy crew and family wish Dominick the best and healthy recovery as you will read in this thread his misfortune.

     Leaving Manasquan a little earlier than normal the Big Boy was headed east toward the Tom's Canyon, onboard were Dominick and his good friend Jose, Joses' father and his son, and young Mike.   Talking to Dominick on the phone I explained to him if we left earlier we would have some time to troll strictly for big eyes.
     Somewhat of a smooth ride out in the following sea which only got nicer as we approached the grounds.  Also onboard with us good friend and captain Larry Grafas who was helping me out since I had some kind of a bug the night before.  At 2:30 we were pulling back the throttles and Rudy was putting out the spread of big spreader bars and big single lures.  By 2:45 we were on the troll and heard it was non existent the day before.  Well it didn't take us long to find some fish, looking on the fish finder we were marking lots of tuna.  It was so impressive I called Rudy up on the bridge to take a look at the screen.  Thirty seconds later we had our first fish on.
     It turned out to be a 46 lb. longfin which is good because big eyes hang out with longfin.  As the fish was being boated the long right rigger line was left in.  With the boat back in gear I noticed a large black object underneath the lure.  I yelled to Rudy to start reeling it away to provoke a bite, no such luck.  However we both knew that fish was what we were looking for.   Making the turn back to where we had our bite we came across a huge bait ball only 70 ft. below the surface.  I knew it was only a matter of time before we would see some incredible action.
     Just after passing the bait ball we had a big eye come up on the long rigger multiple times where every one got to see the hits.  One finally got the hook and the battle was on.  Everyone had a turn on the always mean and angry big eye.  With the fish getting closer to the boat a splash caught my eye on the right short lure hanging from the clip. Dobbing in and out of the water with the boat rocking the lure appeared life like.  Well much to my amazement when I looked over I could see atleast 10 -15 big eyes just hovering below the surface just waiting to pounce.  I could barley speak down to Larry and Rudy to tell them to drop the lure back 10 ft. and jerk it.  I think five fish tried the lure untill we got tight and everyone in the pit got a shower of salt water. 
     Well the first fish was finally gaffed and all three of us pulled the 152 lb. over the gunwale.  With much excitement and tired arms we still had one on.  Once again those that felt up to it went to work on what appeared to be an even larger eyeball.  The harpoon was out for this one no need to take any chances with all the work that has gone into this fish.   With a few more cranks on the handle the harpoon finsihed off this 183 lb. big eye.  With a lot of high fives going on we needed to get the lines back in the water, so everyone got involved helping Rudy and Larry out.
     Wasn't but ten minutes later when we got to see the show of hits behind the boat one more time.  This time the big spreader bar down the shotgun rigger got the bite.  Good thing this one was on the Shimano 80w.  With the lines cleared once again we were at work with another large eyeball.  Jose did all the work this time fighting the fish from start to finish.  When it was all said and done we dragged a 196 lb. big eye through the door. 
      With the tuna bag filled, the huge bonar box occupied by two and the day box with one and enough ice to care for these fish properly night fishing was out of the question.  We were soon forced to head in anyway due to severe medical emergency.  This is one of those trips you will never forget and only dream of seeing again

 

AUGUST 14-15, 2007

The weather and the fishing offshore was good, so The BIG BOY was headed East for her first canyon run of the 2007 season.  Our crew ; Rich, Michael P ”Fish Eye”, Doug and his son Dave , me and Rudy.  Left the dock around 2:30 pm in beautiful flat seas, destination 100 square of the Hudson.  The ride out was beautiful and we arrived on the fishing grounds just before sunset.  We set up for the night in 560 ft of water. Wasn't long before we had a bite, turned out to be a small manta ray.  Luckily it was small... those things get into the hundreds of pounds, and guys spend the entire night fighting them.  A half hour later we had our first yellowfin in the boat. From 9:30 to 12 am we picked at yellowfin and then the bait showed up. At times the squid were so thick you could catch a half dozen with one scoop of the squid net. We had the yellowfin visual behind the boat twice during the night. Highlight of the night was when our deep line went off. Rudy and I both knew what this was a sword. He showed himself when he jumped half way out of the water next to the boat, had to be 200 lbs. Well a few trips around the boat and under the anchor line we had them under control, only to pull the hook 50 ft. from the boat. We went to battle with another big sword just before sun up. Off the ball we fought this fish for a good 40 minutes on 30 lb. standup tackle and after a long battle the sword chaffed through the leader. We were headed home by 6 am. with no room for anymore tuna. 13 yellowfin 40 - 80 lbs. and one 40 lb. longfin. Great first trip of the season to the canyon.

This is a great letter that Dave sent to us, about his day spent on The BIG BOY:

 

AUGUST 12, 2007

Back out on the LBB with Rich and his neighbor Doug to the Rocks. Yes that's right for fluke and fluke we caught. A banner day we had 10 fish weighing over 4 lbs. 6 3/4 was the biggest followed by three 5 1/2 lb., four 5 lb., two 4 1/2 . Had our limit of 24 with releases.

 

AUGUST 8, 2007

Had Rich and Larry from the marina out on the LBB for another shot at the fluke up on the Rocks. Fishing was good with the heaviest going 5lbs.

 

AUGUST 6, 2007

Had a day troll scheduled for the 7th but do to weather and sea conditions we turned around 20 miles out. Thanks NOAA.

 

AUGUST 4, 2007

Rich was onboard and he wanted to get back up to the Rocks for some of that great fluke fishing. Conditions weren't exactly ideal and fishing was a bit slow. Did manage some flatties and looked around for some new spots away from the weekend crowd.

 

AUGUST 3, 2007

Ran out to the Sea Girt Reef with a friend of ours who works at the marina. Gave the Reef a try do to our time frame and to investigate if there were any big fluke cruising around the wrecks. Caught a handful of fish nothing over 5 lbs. though.

 

AUGUST 2, 2007

Had the Armstrong charter out for a day of inshore fishing for sea bass. Fished around the Elberon Rocks off the red church and found the sea bass to be cooperative along with some small fluke. Made a move a mile north to another sticky spot and put a few more fish in the boat. It was then time to make a move to the Rocks where we crushed the fluke a few days ago. I told the guys the fluking here should be good and big fish, so some switched over to fluke and others continued to sea bass as this spot also produces that specie. Well I couldn't help myself and dropped a bucktail down, jigged it twice got hammered and pulled a 7 1/2 lb. flattie in. The charter couldn't believe their eyes and soon everybody was flukin'. Finished up the day with a great catch of sea bass and 18 fluke five fish weighed 4 1/2 lbs. a 6 1/4 lb. and the 7 1/2.

 

JULY 31, 2007

Well sure enough got a report from my brother that the fluking was way good in the Sandy Hook Bay and a favorite spot of ours the Rocks. We ( Rich, Rudy and myself) had the LBB out looking to fish the channels up north for some big fluke but as we were passing the Rocks the conditions looked to good to pass up. Well we spent the entire day there catching our limit of 24 fish and then releasing to boot. Average weight was 3 to 4 pounds with the heaviest going 7 1/2 lbs. with numerous fish in the 5 lb. bracket and a couple 6 lbs. The bucktails out fished the bait 5 to 1. With all the large fish hitting the bucktails.

 

JULY 29, 2007

After a couple days off and getting the boat squared away from our trip it didn't take long to get that itch back. Did some inshore fishing for fluke and some sea bass. Fishing was steady and looked and sounded as if it was about to get real good.

 

JUNE 2007

The first proved to be a good day with a successful bass trip.  The next day we fished The Hi-Mar Striper Tournament.  This event is run out of Twin Lights Marina in Highlands, and only gets better each year.  This is by far our favorite.  Great tournament directors, atmosphere, food, and best of all- it raises money for kids with cancer.  The top 6 places paid out this year.  Well, we got in on the action finishing 5th with a 31.8 pound fish.

On the 3rd we had The BIG BOY off of Island State Beach Park trolling spoons landing only 1 bass going 25 lbs before the rain moved in.

Four days later Rudy and I encountered some of the best fishing that we have seen in quite some time.  Fishing Shrewsbury Rocks, we caught over 75 bass, all on live bunker.  Most of the fish averaged 30 plus pounds, with a couple 40's and a whopper that Rudy caught weighing in at 45 pounds.  This fish was released, as were all with the exception of one.

Had good action on the 7th, and another banner day at the Rocks on the 15th.  The 16th turned out to be a disaster.  We entered the Pete Pauls Bass Tournament held out of Rumson.  After departing the 6am shotgun start, we headed for the Shrewsbury Rocks, a we approached, I couldn't believe my eyes.  Word must have gotten out about yesterdays fishing , because I now felt like I was in a scene from the movie Jaws.  There had to be 150 boats all trying to fish one small area.  What a nightmare.  We caught one fish here before getting away from the crowd.  The fish was 25 pounds and unfortunately didn't place us in the top 10.

On a brighter note we had The BIG BOY out for Fathers Day.  Rich had his father out as well as his nephew, Jonathan Higger, and my father Bill.  We did some fluke fishing since the striper action came to a stand still.  We put together a fine catch by the end of the day.  Happy Fathers Day to all!

The 20th brought us some bad news as we stepped onboard The BIG BOY.  Right away we realized the boat had been struck by lightning in last nights storm!  The boat survived, just some of the electronics suffered.  By Friday night we were up and running after some hard work by Authentic Marine fixing some of the damaged electronics.  Good thing too, because Mako Mania Shark Tournament was only hours away from starting.  For at least the past 4 years now, Dominic and his brother-in-law, Tom, have chartered us for this event.  Also with them this year was Jose, Ralph, and his son Mike.

Day 1 started off sloppy as we made the 50 mile run in 4-6 ft seas.  It would only get better as it didn't take long for the action to start.  With a few blue sharks release d and a stray bluefish here and there, Mr. Mako finally showed up.  We released the first mako that we estimated to be about 100-125 pounds.  Not long after that we had another one on.  What an aerial show we got leaping three times out of the water before finally spitting the hook.  An estimated weight of 150 pounds.  With a lot of hard work and patience , we hooked up another shark o, only this time it was of greater size.  After only 5 minutes of getting some line back on the reel, the hook pulls.  We fish a  lot of drag on our reels for shark, and this is how we knew it was a good one.  Well... that's fishing.  It was only a matter of time before we were hooked up once again with a positive ID of a mako.  The crew made short work of this shark, getting him to leader in just 10 minutes.  This one made its way back to the scales with us weighing in a t 166 pounds.  When the scales closed that evening, our fish wasn't in the top 6.  We knew we would need a fish over 200 lbs tomorrow to have a chance at the top.

On the way in we got to witness something not too many people get to see in a lifetime.  Personally, Rudy and I have only seen it one other time.  A Great White shark.  We were only 15 miles from the inlet when what appeared to be a fin caught my eye.  Out of curiosity, we turned back around.  As we idled down, it was evident, this was an enormous shark.  Driving up along side of the 20 plus foot shark, The BIG BOY dint seem all that big anymore!  The guys came out to see what was going on , only to find themselves staining their under shorts.  We figured he had to weigh close to 2,500 pounds or better.  I brought the boat to a full stop and would you know, the shark swims over to check us out.  As he came across the transom, slowly swimming back down into the depths, it was like he was telling us to take a hike.

Day 2, the seas had laid down and the free chumming had come to an end.  Back in the same area a much different day was about to unfold.  We had bluefish all day in the slick, with not much action from the toothy critters.  Rudy and I both had a feeling that a mako was g0oing to show up and he would be of good size.  Our first bite came sometime around noon, with a small mako release.  Not too long after that, we had a screamer of a hit, we all know what that means... YES MAKO!!!!!  After setting the hook, Mr. Mako decided to run across the surface, showing his dorsal and tail.  Nice fish! was yelled out, and the pressure was on.  In the net 20 minutes, Mr. Mako was subdued.  After all the high fives, we got an estimated length of 90 inches... this could be a winner.  Anticipation, excitement, and nerves were on order for the 2 hour run in.  Not hearing news of any fish caught within this size limit, the scale was going to to determine our fate.

As the shark was hoisted up onto the scale, it was said to see that his belly was sunken in.  Well, the thought of 1st place went out the window, and when the numbers of 228 were called out... put us in 4th place.  We were all still very happy.  Turned out this shark had two commercial longline hooks in his belly.  As Rich would say, "What are you gonna do..."  hey , nice work to my crew, and especially Rudy.   By the way, Dominic and Tom have the boat booked for this event for the next 10 years in advance... SORRY!

 

MAY 2007

On the 8th we ran the "LBB" (Little BIG BOY) up to Bahr's Landing in Highlands.  Here the boat would stay for the next six to seven weeks.  This time of year the Sandy Hook Bay, Raritan Bay, and areas along Staten Island and Coney Island tend to be the most productive.  In the spring and early summer we focus on strictly fishing live bunker for bass, as long as it's available.  The 9th & 15th proved to be good only for the wrong specie.  Yes, that's right, the ravenous and annoying bluefish.  Wasn't until the 20th when we finally encountered the first pods of bunker along the oceanfront beaches of NJ.

The morning looked as if it would have developed to be good one, however the action was short lived.  Good thing we stuck it out, found some bass just north of the Rocks.  Here we would catch and release 16 bass up to 25 lbs.  The next day Rudy and I took the big boat out for a sea trial.

The 22nd, and I had the pleasure of fishing with my wife on my tin boat for fluke in the Navesink River.  Yes... fluke fishing with light tackle and we bucktailed 10 fish in just an hour.  All were released as the season was yet to open, up to 3 1/2 pounds.

The following day had my brother Max out with us where we got into some hot action on bass.  Out of 29 bass caught we kept one.  All nice size fish, the heaviest on the boga grip hand scale was 31 pounds.  Fished off of Asbury and Deal.

The 24th we got Rich into some nice fish off of Elberon.  With no live bait we pulled out the wire.  Dragging the spoons in 35 - 50ft of water proved to be deadly.  I think we had at least 15 bass up to 30 pounds and were back at the dock by 9am.

The 26th & 27th we would be fishing the ASA tournament out of Highlands, where we finished 2nd last year.  This year we finished in 8th respectively.

Day 1, we got into a bass frenzy.  For the next 30 minutes we watched and caught 25-30 pound bass engulfing bunkers on the surface.  It's days like these that stay with you for a lifetime.  Finished the day tied for 5th with a 27.3 pounder.

Day 2, we made the long run once again to the same area.  Here we found a much different day than the previous.  Dropping some whole dead bunkers down under the birds was working and Rich landed a 22 pound fish.  This would be the largest for the day.  Nice work Rich.

The 28th, we had The BIG BOY out for her first trip of the season.  Rich brought along some wonderful friends of his.  Onboard were the Vitali's, Doug and his son Dave, Fred "The Iceman" (12 Time World Kickboxing Champion), and my wife Jen aka "Seaweed Girl".  Trolled some spoons around looking for some bass.  Unfortunately we couldn't get away from the bluefish.  Regardless... everyone had a great time as usual.

 

APRIL 2007

We made our first trip of the year on the 11th for winter flounder.  We fished in the area of the Mantoloking Bridge, on a cold and cloudy day.  Caught some keepers, but over all, the fishing was slow.  The water temperature was 44 degrees.  A few days later, on the 15th, we ran out to a favorite wreck of ours for tautog (blackfish or tog).  Here the fishing seemed to be just a pick, however most of the tog were of good size.  Both trips were on the 26' Regulator... we often refer to as "The Little BIG BOY".

 

CABO - February 25, 2007     Rich, Captain Javier and Javier Jr

Bob O decided to spend the day with our other buddies relaxing poolside.  Captain Javier, Javier Jr and I set out to the north for The Sea of Cortez.  Within a short period of time we spotted a striped marlin.  We had just picked up some fresh mackerel and Javier Jr pitched it within  a few feet.  A few more attempts... and no luck.  Captain Javier got a call from his buddy who told him that the Pacific was jumping.  We traveled 15 miles to the south and began trolling.  We hit a quick, and nice size, dorado.  Soon after, Captain Javier spotted a marlin.  He took the live mackerel, and 20 minutes later we released an 8 foot striped marlin estimated at 125 pounds.

Within a few minutes of trolling, "BOOM!" the second striped marlin even more sizeable jumping 20 times before we boarded him.  He measured 9 feet and approx 135 pounds... we released him.  What a great crew, Captain Javier was the son of a captain and his son is carrying the same passion as his ancestors.  I highly recommend anyone in Cabo to charter these guys - their telephone number is: (624) 122-21-75.

 

DECEMBER 9, 2006

Fished a cold and blustery day for some tautog.  Maybe that why we had the entire Sea Girt Reef all to ourselves.  Had Max, and Doc. Billy Rhee out again for what was a slow pick of tog until Big Moe hit.  Well, those of that tog always dream of not only catching , but landing a tog of this size.  Well, yours truly got the job done.  The Boga Grip scale dipped to 13 lbs.  After some photo's and high fives, the tog was released.

 

NOVEMBER 29, 2006

Got a call from Captain Ed, who chartered us over a month ago for tuna, and the told me that he wanted to take his boyz' out fishing one last time before winter.  Well, couldn't be more delighted to have these guys back on, as was Rudy.  Captain Ed originally wanted to go for stripers but since they were few and far between, I talked him into togging, with the option if we saw some bass - we would do that too.

We had Bob, Lou, Mark, Captain Mitch, and their fearless leader Captain Ed up to S.H.Reef fishing a small high piece of structure towards the southern end.  Rudy gave a togging' 101 class in the pit as the anchor got tight and within the first line, over a 7 lb tog started the day off.  The next few fish were large as well, and the guys had Rudy and I bent over in laughter.  Well it seemed Captain Ed was really hearing it from the guys, how he was struggling to catch his first fish of the day.  The tide soon turned for the man financing the trip and catching all the "BS".  Lapped over in the corner, Captain Ed has his hands full.  After skillfully getting his fish out of the structure and to the net, Captain Ed raised his pool winning 8 3/4 lb tog high above the locked jaw crew.

After a few wiggles on our spot and stop laughing it was time to head for home.  Final tally back at the dock - 25 keepers with 1/2 dozen quality fish that went 5 3/4, 6, two 6 1/4, a 7, and an 8 3/4 lber.  Rudy and I thank you guys very much, and are looking forward to seeing you next year..

 

NOVEMBER 28, 2006

Fished a wreck off of Seaside with Doc. Rhee, Max, and Rudy where the action on the tog was slow to start, however the sea bass were ferocious.  The togging' soon came alive with some really nice fish.  When we lost the tide, the bite died to just a pick.  At one point we were fishing in tee shirts... go figure.. 

 

NOVEMBER 26, 2006

Rich had some friends out for a bottom trip to the reef.  We had Johnny Arizona back on the boat, as well as Fred (aqua "The Iceman"), and his girlfriend Natalia.  Fished a sunken tugboat on the reef which held some nice life.  We had tog up to 6 lbs, some porgies, and some sea bass.  Calm seas, good company, and hungry fish... what could be better?.

 

NOVEMBER 21, 2006

Got to fish with a long time friend who is in the area for a few weeks from Hawaii.  Spending the past few years in Hawaii, it came as no surprise when Doc. Billy Rhee called and wanted to go togging, and proved to me he is still a diehard fisherman.  So, out to the S.H.Reef we went finding action right away and lasting throughout most of the day.  Took home our limit and the releases were countless, as were the smiles on Doc' face..

 

NOVEMBER 19, 2006

Well, with the weather and some nice seas, we ran out to Monsters Ledge for yet another try on some tuna.  Sure didn't look the same as a week ago, and it proved to be true.  No bites on the tuna and only a few large bluefish to makeup the day.  Onboard were Rich and his neighbor Doug.

 

NOVEMBER 18, 2006

Fished one of the wrecks on the Sea Girt Reef with Rich and good friend Gerard, who, by the way, is always full of good energy and spirits.  Put together a decent catch of tog, some sea bass, and a few porgies.  Fun day on the water.

 

NOVEMBER 15, 2006

Rudy and I ran out to the Sea Girt Reef on the 26' Regulator for 2 hours and had good action with toggers.

 

NOVEMBER 11, 2006

Tried our luck back in the Mudhole fishing around Monster Ledge for blue fin tuna.  Just Rich, Rudy, and myself onboard today.  Before setting up, we saw some porpoise in the area, which was nice.  Wasn't long before the bluefish found us and the tying of new hooks began.  The work paid off, and we managed our first blue fin of the day - close to 50 lbs - the fish was released.

 

NOVEMBER 5, 2006

Fished the Sandy Hook Reef with my brother Max, and Captain Anthony on the Dead Eel for some tautog.  We took home 2 dozen out of an estimate of 50 tog, the largest going 8 pounds.

 

OCTOBER 31, 2006

Ran back out to the Ledge, this time with Rich and Shawn, seems they wanted in on the action too.  Looked over both the east and west side of the ledge - didn't see much in terms of fish - but there was tons of bait.  Back on the west side we set up and had a good run off only to pull the hook.  Well that was the only bite of the day.  With the sea getting uglier by the hour and no sign of the wind letting up we called it a day.  Only made 15 knots on the way home with lots of white water, just ask Shawn...

 

OCTOBER 27, 2006

Fished on the 26 Regulator with Rudy and Capt. Anthony (aqua THE EEL).  Back to the Mudhole we went in search of some school blue fin.  After getting to the Ledge a little late we dropped the hook on the west side.  Wasn't long before we had our first bite and yes it was a tuna, however we missed 'em.  Twenty minutes later Rudy had one on quickly followed by as second rod going off.  I set the hook and the battle was on.  the only problem was Rudy and I got tangled up, and tin the process of over and under my fish ran and cut Rudy's clean off.  After honestly getting a little ass kickin' we boated and released an estimated 50 lbs blue fin.  Sorry Rudy.  Well he got his chance again and I'm still wondering who caught who.  A half hour later another 50 lber released on a twenty pound out fit.  Ended the day going 2 for 6.  have to say it was really nice to see some tuna back in the hole.

 

OCTOBER 21, 2006

Had Rich and friends Michael P from CT, Brian and Scott from Maryland, and Sandy from NY out for bass/bottom fishing.  Bass were no where to be found and the sea bass, porgies, and tog were all on the small side.  Maybe it had something to do with the 20-25mph NW winds - I don't know - go figure.  Caught one bass, approximately 18lbs.

 

OCTOBER 15-16, 2006

Chartered by Capt. Ed and his friends/employees for an overnight chunking trip.  headed to the east wall of the Hudson along with every other boat on the east coast, this was where the best water was.  Arriving before sunset we went on the drift jigging in sloppy 4-5' seas.  Had some marks but no takers and the drift was really fast.  Spent some time looking around for a spot to anchor.  Besides there being about 70 boats in the area, the squid boats (10 of them to be exact) were dragging the edge.  Many boats were losing their anchors to the squid boats, who didn't seem to have a care for the tuna boats.  Not wanting to put the safety of our crew in jeopardy, or wishing to lose our anchor, we spent the night making short drifts through the fleet.  Around 5:30am after getting rocked all night, some of the boats that did anchor were into the fish.  We looked to drop the hook and there wasn't much room.  Unable to get in the area we stayed on the drift and conditions were starting to improve.  Finally we had a few bites, unfortunately we didn't capitalize on it.  Then with some relief we boated a yellow fin around 8:00am.  Usually by 8:00am we would've been an hour into our trip home, however Capt. Ed and his crew were the most experienced and not to mention funny, kind, and down to earth.  So we made an exception for them to stay longer and put some fish in the boat.  Well, the fish were hard to come by.  We marked fish under the boat every drift - most of which had lock jay except a few.  Four long fin spiced up the catch and put a smile on our faces.  e really worked hard for these fish that ranged 45-55 pounds; it just seemed like everything was against us from the beginning.  Capt. Ed and crew - we would love to have you back - thanks for being so patient and helping out.  Also thanks NOAA for that wonderful forecast, your 2-3' was more like 5-7'. 

 

OCTOBER 3-4, 2006

Capt. Bob Pisano invited me on a fun trip aboard the Antoinette.  We headed towards the Carteret Canyon with owner Teddy, His close friend Dominick, Frank and his son Craig, along with two very good friends of mine- Capt. Scott and Capt. Anthony.  Anchored a few miles North of the Carteret where the tail end of a warm eddy was.  Beautiful blue 73 degree water with lots of bait.  It didn't take long for the tuna to show up.  Had 4 yellows by 10pm with a little lull until about 2am.  Started marking a lot of fish with a bite here and there, and wasn't long until they went on the feed.  By dawn we stopped fishing, putting 11 more yellow fin in the 60-90lb. range and 2 large long fin going 62 and 65lbs.  Also, pulled the hook on a swordfish just out of gaff range.  Thanks for the call Bob.

 

OCTOBER 1, 2006

Fished some wrecks 5 to 7 miles off the beach for sea bass.  We caught 46 sea bass up to 3 pounds, clams and spearing were the choice bait.  Onboard for the day were Rich, Iceman, Stanley,   Johnny V, Rudy and myself.

 

SEPTEMBER 26, 2006

Myself and Rudy took the 26' Regulator out again for giant tuna in the Mudhole.  This time we fished The Arundo, here we had some bluefish again and very possibly marked our first giant of the year.

 

SEPTEMBER 21-22, 2006

Rudy and myself were invited on a canyon trip with a friend of ours, Capt. Lenny , who runs the Xiphais out of Brielle Yacht Club.  Headed out with his boss and some friends of his to the east wall of the Hudson Canyon.  Anchoring in 600 ft. we caught 9 yellow fins from 60-80 lbs.  along with a swordfish in the 100 pound class.

 

SEPTEMBER 19, 2006

Heard of some talk about Giant Blue fins in the Mudhole so Rudy and myself had to check it out first hand.  Set up around the Monster Ledge where we caught bluefish and dogfish - no signs what so ever of any tuna.

 

SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

Had Rich and friends, Gene and Linda, from Philly out for a shot lunch cruise.  Lunch came from Philly and boy was it good.  Philly cheese steaks all around, Rudy was in heaven.

 

SEPTEMBER 9-10, 2006

Rich, Rudy, and myself got invited on a fun trip aboard the Lil'Rascals.  This is the boat we fished the MA 500 with owner, Larry Grafis.  We fished the 100 Square where we spent the night chunking.  We went 1 for 5 on yellow fins and 1 for 2 on long fin.

 

SEPTEMBER 4, 2006

Did a lunch cruise with Rich, Iceman and friends up to Barh's Restaurant in Highlands.

 

AUGUST 19-25, 2006 MID ATLANTIC 500 TOURNAMENT

Had the pleasure of running Larry Graffis' boat, a 55ft Hatteras, where he and Rich went in as partners for the tournament.  The crew onboard were Rich, Larry and his son Mike, Rudy, myself, and Rich's friend Glenn.  The tournament was Monday through Friday, held out of Cape May, and you could fish any three days of the five.  The MA 500 is strictly a marlin and tuna tournament where the white marlin usually pays out well over $500,000.00 to the winner.

We fished Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday - these were the best days for sea conditions.  We focused on strictly fishing for white marlin.  We went 2 for 13 on whites, neither of the 2 met the size requirements so they were released.  Unfortunately we did miss quite a few fish.  Guess that's why they call it fishing instead of catching.  We fished mainly in 500 fathoms east of the Carteret, on up to Toms and Hendrickson Canyon where we found blue 80 degree water.  We were running 100 miles out on average which made for 3 long days.

Everyone did their job and worked hard.  We all had a great time, a big thank you to my crew... There's always next year.

 

AUGUST 17, 2006

Fished for fluke up off of The Red Church with Rich, Richs godson Evan, Laurie, Cassondra, and Diandra.  The few hours we fished did produce 4 keepers from 2 1/2 to 5 lbs, and many throwbacks.

 

AUGUST 13-14, 2006

I got an invite to fish with Captain Bob Pisano, who if you don't know was one of, if not, the best giant tuna fisherman of his time.  He still runs a private sportfish out of Shark River at the age of 75.

Two other good friends of mine were on the boat as we headed for The Hudson Canyon... Captain Scott Attaway, and Captain Anthony Azzariti.  Set up for the chunk and put 2 yellow fins in the boat right away that went 45 and 60 lbs.  The rest of the night was quiet.  Did manage a small sword and a blue shark.  In the morning the troll produced one more yellow fin, about 40 lbs.

AUGUST 11, 2006

Pulled out of the slip at midnight and put us on a course for The Lindy.  Onboard were Rich, "The Ice Man", Rudy, and myself.  On the troll just before sunrise we searched around for some life.  Talked to some guys who fished that night and said it was slow, so we worked our way up to the north towards The Carteret.  Got a call from Philly on The Canyon Runner who was into a good bite.  Knowing he was only a few miles in the direction we were heading... we picked up an ran.

Only took a few minutes to get the first bite of the morning which would only be followed by 10 more.  Finished the day at noon with 11 yellow fins 30-55 lbs.  Almost all of the fish were caught on spreader bars.

 

AUGUST 6, 2006

Had Rich, his brother Mike, and Mikes son Josh out for a day of fluke fishing.  Fished south of the inlet where we found plenty of shorts but no keepers.  Moved offshore in deeper water with some structure, and found 2 keepers along with some sea bass.

 

AUGUST 5, 2006

Mike Meanie and two of his friends chartered us for a bluefish trip.  Fished out at 17 Fathoms where it didn't take long to get the fish biting.  Had 2 and 3 fish on consistently for 3 hours, released 80 fish and only kept a few for the table.

 

AUGUST 2, 2006

Had our first canyon trip of the year and a successful one at that.  We had Freddie Radilik, his fiancé Julia, and her father out for a day troll on the west side of the Hudson Canyon.  The day started off slow with a yellow, followed a while later by a long fin - until all hell broke loose.  Found 3 whales feeding on bait and with the first pas we went 3 for 5 on yellow fins.  The next pass went 4 for 6... once again all yellow fins.  We managed one more in that same location before the charter decided to call it quits.  1 long fin was 40 lbs, and 9 yellow fin were 30 - 60 lbs... oh yeah... and a small mahi.

 

JULY 30, 2006

Rich had a very special guest, and some friends out today.  If any of you follow professional kickboxing, you will know this guy, Fred "The Iceman", a world kickboxing champion.  I saw, and wore the big belt.  What an incredible individual and a kind-hearted man.  I can honestly say that I wouldn't want to piss him off, or even think about getting in the ring with him.

Oh yeah, we did fish, and put together a small catch of fluke.  Our other two guests were Kim, Valentina, and Larry.

 

JULY 26, 2006

Shoved off at 5:30am for the long journey home.  Sure was a great trip all around.  Wonderful people and friends, beautiful sites, mouth watering dinners and outstanding fishing.  Thanks again Rich for a wonderful trip and the hard work from Frankie and Rudy.

 

JULY 25, 2006

Some new and now great friends of ours that we met up a that the tournament told us about a good bite on blue fin tuna 8 1/2 miles off of Block Island.  We had to go and see first hand, and made the 35 mile run from Newport.  We arrived on the grounds around 7 am, and shortly after that, Cliff, our new friend showed up on his boat as well.  Trolling the area, we marked bait and tunas but were unsuccessful in getting them to bite, as was the same for Cliff.  Headed Eat a little where we found some scallop boats working the area.  Trolled behind them and saw nothing.  So, decided to start trolling towards Newport over some good bottom.  Here we had one fish come up and miss the spreader bar 3 times.  Oh well.  Cliff did manage one blue fin about 70 lbs... good going.  We later heard the bite did die off after the tropical storm passed.

 

JULY 24, 2006

Had the absolute pleasure of taking Cousin Stevie , Cheryl, Laurie and Walter out fluke fishing on his 79th birthday.  I just want everyone to know that this guy fished all day... and I mean all day!  He would take a quick drink an maybe a bite to eat between drifts, and right back to fishing.  A machine this guy is folks!  Walter, sorry the fishing was on the slow side, but you and everyone else managed some nice fish.  Fluke up to 5 1/2 lbs.  Wish you the best and hope t see you again next year.

 

JULY 23, 2006

Left the Vineyard and headed to our next destination - Newport, RI, where we would spend the next 3 days with some wonderful friend's of Rich.

 

JULY 22, 2006

Day 2, the last and final day of the tournament, spirits were high and the hopes of getting a qualifier were even greater.  Well, today the wind decided to blow even stronger and by the afternoon we were a rockin' and a rollin'.  Despite the conditions, we fished the same spot - and who wouldn't!  Things got off to a slow start and the water color and temperature wasn't what had been, but we were still confident in pulling a large shark out of this are.

We managed a few blue sharks and were wondering if we would see a mako.  Well, Mr. Mako did show up and it was a good one.  Taking a bluefish fillet and a screaming run, Rudy grabbed the rod an we all had a feeling this was one for the scales.  As the shark was running, Rudy engaged the drag to strike, and hit the shark hard with some short pumps to set the hook.  So, the normal routine followed with putting the harness on the angler, firing up the engines, and clearing the rods.  We fish with a lot of drag so we can figure out early what size fish we are dealing with.  Well, this fish never stopped taking the drag at a high rate of speed, and pretty much laughed at our 29 lbs of strike.  Now we knew for certain this was big mako, and before you knew it, he was gone.  With the line still screaming off the reel - the hook pulled, somehow the fillet folded over the hook and it just didn't penetrate.

With only a few hours left, we released 4 blue sharks and kept pondering about the one that got away.  We'll just never know.  In all we sure didn't complain, I mean how could you - with the fishing we experienced.  10 makes, 3 threshers, and 6 blue sharks.  I rest my case...

My crew was absolutely top notch and professional as they get, that includes you as well Rich - you worked hard and fought some real monsters.  Thanks guys - this is definitely one we will never forget.

 

JULY 21, 2006

Day one of the tournament.  With a tropical storm passing within 75 miles of us that night, we were all wondering if we or anyone would get out and fish.  At 8am we heard the forecast had changed and a few boats were heading out.  We figured we would take a shot too.  The seas ran about 6 to 8 feet and was safe enough to fish.

Getting to the same grounds we fished just 2 days ago, took some time and some patience.  We were all excited to see if the sharks stuck around.  Within the first hour we missed a mako, but only to be followed by a day we will never forget.  From 1:45pm until lines out at 5:30pm, we caught and released 7 makos from 60 lbs to qualify, and blue sharks had to be 300 lbs or better.  This is why they call it "The Monster Shark Tournament"

I really didn't think anything could've topped out practice day, but 7 makos and 3 that were estimated to be 125, 180, and 200 lbs ... come on!

 

JULY 19, 2006

Left Montauk around 5:30am and made a 76 mile run to look over a spot before the tournament starts on Friday.  The area we picked out proved to be a good choice.  In only 3 hours of fishing we released 3 makos up to 125lbs, and 3 threshers that estimated 150, 200, and 350 lbs.  Too bad it wasn't a tournament day.  What an awesome 3 hours of fishing - it doesn't get much better than this!  From here we ran 25 miles into the Vineyard, where we would be spending the next 4 days.

 

JULY 18, 2006

Spent the last week getting the boat ready to fish the Monster Shark Tournament up in Martha's Vineyard.  Left Manasquan around 7am and arrived up in Montauk that afternoon.  Our crew for the tournament is Rick, Rudy, our good friend Frankie, who also fished with us last year, and myself.

 

JULY 9, 2006

Tried our luck hoping to find some stripers still lurking around off Highlands and the Rocks.  Caught some bluefish, but no bass to speak of.

 

JULY 8, 2006

Had Rich and his brother out for a day of shark fishing.  Fished the Glory Hole where we had no wind or drift, and very little life, so we moved over to the Mud Hole on the east side.  Same conditions existed here as well, so we called it a day around 3 o'clock with nothing to show for our strong effort.

 

JULY 4, 2006

Tried our luck on a busy day for some bass with Rich and Rudy.  Got bait outside the inlet and ran up to the north and found the action to be slow everywhere.  Did manage 4 bass up to 24lbs. and some large gators.  Finished the day up just before mother nature's fireworks.  Happy 4th of July.

 

JUNE 23-25, 2006

We were chartered for the Mako Mania and the Jersey Coast Shark Tournaments.  We fished all 3 days with Dominick, Tom, Mario, and Sean.  These guys are die-hard shark fisherman who charter us every year and are always a pleasure to have onboard.

Day 1 - We took a beating traveling down towards the Fingers in solid 6-foot seas.  Here we caught 2 blue sharks, followed by a small mako that measured 2 inches over the requirement.  On the scales it went 117lbs... not heavy enough to qualify.

Day 2 - The seas were a little calmer and thought we would try our luck out towards the Glory Hole and Rockpiles.  Here we fought and released seven blue sharks and missed our only really good run off of the day, most likely "Mr. Mako".

Day 3 - Fished southwest side of the Chicken Canyon up on the edge and managed 2 blue sharks and a mako about 100lbs, all were released.

Hope to see you guys next year, and some bigger mako's too!  Thank you again, and thank you Rudy for your work in the pit.

 

JUNE 21, 2006

Had Rich, his father Jack, Andy and Steve (friends of Jack's) and Rudy, out for a bass trip up to the Rocks, and off Highlands Bridge.  We put a great catch together keeping 5 bass and releasing a few others.  Heaviest bass went 43lbs - what a beauty... followed by a 30lber, 23, 21, and a 18lber.  Live bunker and dead produced.

 

JUNE 18, 2006

Rudy and Mullet fished just north of Seaside around the bunker schools and caught 4 bass up to 23lbs.

 

JUNE 13, 2006

Ran up to the Rocks in the afternoon with Rudy where we took some decent bass on live bunkers.

 

JUNE 11, 2006

Rudy had the small boat out by himself and landed four bass on spoons at the Rocks.

 

JUNE9, 2006

Had THE BIG BOY out for her sea trial to test the new rebuilds.  The Boat ran great!

BOOK YOUR CHARTERS NOW!

 

JUNE 3, 2006

Fished the Hi Mar Striped Bass Tournament on Saturday with Rich and Rudy.  Had a decent day of fishing but couldn't find the big one's.  Our heaviest fish went 24lbs.

 

MAY 29, 2006

Had a fireman's Memorial Day Parade to attend so Rudy had Rich and his father Jack went out fluke fishing.  With the water temps still a little cool for fluke, caught 2 keepers and 15 throwbacks.

 

MAY 28, 2006

After yesterdays poor showing of bass, we tried some bottom fishing on the Sandy Hook Reef.  Here we put together a catch of tog, sea bass, and porgies.  10 keeper sea bass and 4 go.  Rich, Constantine, Rudy, and myself.

 

MAY 27, 2006

With the action slow in the area, we made a run up to fish West Bank off of Chapel Hill Channel for bass.  After netting bait in the harbor we got to the gounds just as the bite was dying off.  Got one bass and a bunch of blues.  Called it an early day with all of the Memorial Day boat traffic.  Onboard were Rich, Johnny "B", Rudy, and myself.

 

MAY 24, 2006

Bringing the boat back down to Manasquan, my brother Max jumped onboard, for he knew we would stop and fish somewhere.  He was right, and caught fish we did.  Had the bass off Asbury with the bunkers and managed 13 bass 25 to 30lbs.  These fish fought like they were on steroids.

 

MAY 20-21, 2006

Brought the boat up to the Highlands area for a weekend ASA Bass Tournament held out of Bahr's Landing.  This is one of the largest bass tournaments to come through our area with a lot of team sponsored boats.  Only one fish can be weighed per day, and the total of your 2 day- 2 fish combined weight depicts 1st through last.

On day one, we stuck to our game plan and it paid off.  Finding some fish in 60ft of water, and having live bait, I knew we would pull a big fish from this spot.  Sure enough, the third fish caught went 37lbs and we had a good feeling this would place us in the top three.  At weigh-in on day one, our fish was in 1st with the next closest being 4 pounds behind.

Day two and spirits high, we once again stayed with our strategy.  Found fish short of our first stop, breaking the surface chasing bunkers.  We stopped the boat and had fish on instantly, only these fish only averaged in the low 20lb class.  Got a call from a friend who was catching big fish, and made the 3 mile run, where our day was going to being originally.  Manager a 32lber here, which we knew we needed to stay close to the top of the leader board.  Back at Bahr's for final weigh-in and tensions were high.  Caught rumor on the docks a 44lb fish was weighed and the hopes of 1st place dwindled.  A boat in 4th place on day one had the big fish, and bumped us to 2nd.

2nd place sounds good enough to me.  Special thanks to my crew. Rich and Rudy - great job as always.  Was also nice to see the top 4 finishers go to the local captains in the area, and not the team boats.

 

MAY 18, 2006

Rich, Rudy, Johnny "B", and myself were back at the rocks with the spoons.  Caught our limit of bass ranging up to 32lbs, and released another six.

 

MAY 17, 2006

Fished on the Dead Eel today, a 23 Regulator, with two food friends of mine - Capt. Scott Attaway, and Capt. Anthony Azzaritti.  Left from the Highlands area and ran up into the Raritan Reach for a busy day of bass fishing.  Had the tanks full with live bunkers and in no time had some tight lines.  After the ride changed, the fishing turned red hot.  Each drift produced multiple double and triple headers.   Final estimated count for the day, was over 40 fish up to 30lbs - all but one fish was released.

 

MAY 14, 2006

Back out again hoping for the same action as yesterday.  Didn't find the bunker, but we did find the bass.  Had the fish on the rocks and managed some more off of Deal on the spoons.  Along with Rich, Rudy, and myself was Rich's sons' good friend Josh.  He caught his largest bass to date... a 23lber, and is a natural with the spooning rods.

 

MAY 13, 2006

Had a banner day bass fishing with live bunkers and trolling spoons.  Had the bass early on the spoons, then the bunker showed up and it was fishing at it's best.  Rich, Rudy, and myself caught our limit of 25 to 33lb bass and released 34, all in the same size bracket.  Wish we had a film crew.

 

MAY 7, 2006

Fished just North of the Manasquan Inlet.  The bunkers showed up early along the beach so we gave it a go...  We caught one bass and some monster bluefish.  Think it just needs a few more days to develop.

 

MAY 6, 2006

Dusted off the spooning rods and headed up to the Shrewsbury Rocks for some trolling.  Had 12 bass up to 20lbs.  Fish were all caught early in the AM on green and yellow spoons.  Rich, Rudy, and myself were The Charter.

 

MAY 4, 2006

Rich and Rudy made a trip out to the Sea Girt Reef and put together a catch of tog, sea bass, ling, and a cod.

 

APRIL 26, 2006

Headed up to Great Kills, Staten Island, for some early live lining action on the striped bass.  Had trouble netting bunkers in the harbor which ate up some time and ended up missing the bite.  Was great to see the bunkers around and finally fishing for some bass.

 

APRIL 25, 2006

Tried the Sea Girt Reef for some tog and turned out to be very slow.  Water temp 51 degrees.

APRIL 15, 2006

Made a run out to try our hand at some blackfishing.  Proved to be a good call because they were snapping.  Rich, Johnny "B", Rudy and myself fished a spot in 65ft of water and a sea temp of 47 degrees.  Kept our limit out of 25 tog that came over the side with average weight of 5lbs on up to 9lbs.  Green crabs were the choice of bait; a lot of dogfish on clams.

 

APRIL 14, 2006

With THE BIG BOY getting new rebuilds on the engines and a completion date around the first week in June, all trips posted for the time being are on THE BIG BOY II (The Regulator 26).

Fished the Manasquan River for some winter flounder with Rich, his brother Jeff and his two sons Spencer and Evan, and 1st Mate Rudy.  Despite a chilly day and wishing I was still in Florida, the gang managed 7 flatties and some throwbacks.

 

MONTH OF MARCH 06'

Set off to Florida on March 1st in Rich's Denali and the 26 Regulator (THE BIG BOY II) close behind.  Twenty-six hours later we arrived at our final destination - Fort Lauderdale.  For the next thirty days... this would be home.

With March being the so called "windy month", we did manage quite a few trips.  We caught a small variety of bottom fish, along with king fish, mahi mahi's, and the always acrobatic sailfish.  The water temps were in the 70's, and I think that it only rained twice.

When we weren't fishing, we cruised the intercoastal waterway.  Here we found some great restaurants for lunch and dinner.  The outside bars were a hit for sunset cruises.

During our stay, numerous quests came down to visit.  Here's a list:  Bob O, Michael "Fish Eye" P, Billy A, Shawn, Carrie, Laura, Cousin Stevie, Cousin Cheryl, Brother Jeff, Niece Rachel, Marco and his mother, and George from Chicago.  Personally, I had such a wonderful time with each and everyone of these individuals - thank you, and especially Rich.

 

2005 FLORIDA PICTURES

 

DECEMBER 7, 2005 RICH, JOHNNY "B", & THE CREW

Just because THE BIG BOY is winterized doesn't mean that The Regulator is.  Got out for a late afternoon bass trip with Rich, Johnny "B", Rudy, and myself.  Just out of the inlet we ran into birds working, along with bass boiling on the surface.  We dropped the jigs down and managed a few fish.  Although there was a lot of bird life, the fish were few and far between.  With that, we ran to the North in hopes of better fishing.  Well the move proved to be a good one.  In no time, we were catching bass off Deal on the jigs with double and triple headers.  In 2 1/2 hours we landed 53 bass ranging from 4 lbs. on up to 20 lbs. and 5 bluefish up to 15 lbs.

 

DECEMBER 3-4, 2005 RICH, JOHNNY "B", DOUG, MAX, & THE CREW

Had THE BIG BOY out this weekend for its last trip of the season.  Fishing both days, Sunday proved to be the best with the exception of the weather.  At 5:00 a.m. it was snowing pretty good with about three inches on the ground.  By 7:30 a.m. it had stopped and we were on our way out of the inlet with Rich, Johnny "B", Rich's neighbor Doug, Rudy, my brother Max, and myself.  Splitting the day in half we planned to bass fish in the morning, and then switch to togging'.

Breaking the inlet we had action right away.  After boating and releasing numerous bass, the action died.  Ran up to The Rocks where we found non-stop action jigging bass all alone.  By 11:30 a.m. we called it quits.  With an estimation of close to 80 or more bass caught and released, we had the slot limit filled along with some fish over 34" mark.

With not far to travel we set up on the Sandy Hook Reef for blackfish.  Action was slow at times but did improve later in the day.  We managed to catch some 20 keepers along with Doug's pool winning 8 1/2 pound tog.  It was a cold, great day of fishing, and it was a treat to have my brother along.  With that, I just want to say thanks to Rich for everything this season, we had a great time.  Rudy, thanks for your help, and thank you to those that chartered THE BIG BOY.

Book your trips now for 2006 - we will be up and running by the second week of April.  Have a safe winter and Happy Holidays!

-Capt. "D"

 

NOVEMBER 27, 2005 RICH, & THE CREW

Out on the Regulator again Sunday with Rich, Rudy, and myself for a repeat of Saturday.  It proved to be a carbon copy for the bass.  Action was slow and the fish were small off Seaside.  We just couldn't stop thinking about the tog trip yesterday and in no time we were headed back out there.  After setting up, the adrenaline was high for some fast paced action.  That action we were looking for never really happened... only picking fish here and there.  We covered every square inch of that.

 

NOVEMBER 26, 2005 RICH, JOHNNY "B", & THE CREW

Ran down to fish off of Seaside Pier for bass with Rich, Johnny "B", Rudy, and myself.  Looks like everyone else had the same idea as we trolled in and around a fleet of more than 70 boats.  Marking bait and bass on the fish finder, the hits were hard to come by.  With the action so slow and only a couple small bass taken, we decided to go blackfishing.  Looking at a chart and on the GPS we noticed two wrecks about seven miles offshore.  Having flat conditions and the 26' Regulator out, we were there in no time cruising at 34 kts.  For the next four hours we crushed the blackfish that averaged 3 to 4 pounds.  Was a fabulous day of togging'.

 

NOVEMBER 20, 2005 RICH, & THE CREW

Rudy, myself, and Rich were back at it again in the morning.  Looking to start the day off like Sat. it slowly developed.  Only to find all the bluefish you wanted, which all seemed to be on steroids.  Having enough of the bluefish we moved off to the east and did some wreck fishing.  Caught some sea bass and blackfish but this fishing proved to be tough as well.

 

NOVEMBER 19, 2005 RICH, JOHN, JONATHAN, & MICHAEL

Back from his vacation overseas, Rich was anxious to get back on the water.  Along for the trip was a friend John Capra, and his two boys Jonathan and Michael.  Out of the inlet we headed north and arrived at our destination off Highlands.  Finding plenty of bird life and good readings we started the day off jigging.  The first fish to come over the side were four slot sized bass followed by a 26 lber.  Jonathan subdued this large fish in ample time after a grueling battle.  With the fleet growing we decided to move off and fish by ourselves.  The boys were eager to catch some larger fish so we put the bunker spoons out.  It paid off and in no time Michael was at work reeling in 300ft. of wire line with a 23 1/2 lber. tugging back.  The boys managed  two more good size bass that went 21 1/2 lbs. and 18 1/2 lbs.  By the end of the day the  total catch tallied 11 bass with 6 throwbacks and released a doz. 8-15 lb. bluefish.  The crew of the Big Boy were really impressed with the angling skills and dedication of Jonathan and Michael. Watch out for these two when they get older, me and Rudy could be out of a job!

 

 

OCTOBER 13-NOVEMBER 2, 2005 UPDATE

Sorry I haven't kept the reports up to date recently... so here is a summed up report.  Recently Rich purchased a 2001 26' Regulator w/ twin 250 Yamaha's.  So Rudy and myself have been busy rigging the boat out for fishing.  Not to say that we haven't fished on it.  Rich, Mike Rose, Johnny "B", Constantine (Rich's nephew), Rudy, myself, and some other guests have all been making trips for stripers, sea bass, and blackfish.  Sea bass fishing has been really good, blackfish are starting to bite, and the stripers have been difficult at times due to all of the bluefish.  There's tons of bait around and the outlook is very promising for November.

 

 

OCTOBER 8, 2005    CAPTAIN "D" GOT MARRIED!

 

SEPTEMBER 28, 2005    WACHOVIA BANK CHARTER

On Wednesday, we took out a charter from Wachovia Bank for a blue fin day-chunking trip.  At daybreak we were in the area of the Bacardi, searching for some scallop boats in sloppy 4-5 ft. seas.  The radar showed some boats a few more miles to the east.  As we got closer, there were half a dozen scallop boats working the area.  We fished behind numerous boats before getting our first tuna, about 85 lbs.  Gave it hell the rest of the day trying everything we knew, but the fish behind the boats didn't want to cooperate.  Going on the drift in the area, we managed to hook one more, only to lose it at the boat.  After a long day and a great effort from everyone on board, we called it a day.

 

SEPTEMBER 5, 2005    RICH, RUDY'S FRIEND JOSH "MULLET"

Left the dock on what was supposed to be a half day fluke trip with Rich and Rudy's friend Josh "Mullet".  With the wind blowing hard out of the northeast, conditions were looking less than ideal.  Had a spot picked out with some rough bottom 18 miles to the north.  By the time we got there the wind and the seas laid down, and the fluke were feeding.  First fish to come over was 6lbs shortly followed by a 9 1/2 lber, both caught by yours truly.  Rudy got in the game and landed a 7 1/2, 6 1/2, and a 6 lber.  Rich and Josh took up the slack with four fish going 5 lbs, two 4 1/2 lbs, two 3 lbs, and a few 1 1/2 to 2 pound fish.  Squid and spearing combo, live peanuts, and fluke jigs all worked.  Back at the dock around 7pm.  This was one of the best fluke trips I've seen in a really long time.

 

SEPTEMBER 3-4, 2005    RICH, CONSTANTINE (THE NEPHEW), DOMINICK, AND JOHNNY "B"

Leaving the inlet around mid morning "THE BIG BOY" was headed east for the Tom's canyon.  On board we had Rich, Constantine, Dominick, and Johnny "B".  Trolling for an hour didn't produce anything and with the fleet growing in anticipation for the chunk bite we dropped the hook.  By 9:00pm we had plenty of squid around the boat and in the livewell.  Didn't get our first bite until around 11:30pm, putting two fish in the boat and then having to wait until 4:30am when we got another shot.  Going 8 for 12 on yellow fins that ranged from 40 to 110 pounds then we headed home.  Constantine caught his first Tuna!

 

AUGUST 21, 2005     RICH AND JOHNNY ARIZONA

After some unfortunate down time with the boat.  She's up and running again looking to make some trips.  Well that's just what we did taking Rich and his lifelong friend John out for some sharking.  Ran out to the mudhole and set up on the drift in blue-green 76 degree water.  Had to wait all day before Mr. Mako appeared.  He wasted no time eating a mackerel bait not far from the boat.  John had the shark subdued in 15 minutes.  Back at Hoffman's for a weigh in going 133 pounds.  Nice work guy's.

 

JULY 13-18, 2005     DOMINICK & KEITH CHARTER, MONSTER SHARK TOURNAMENT

After a week and a half of preparation and maintenance, THE BIG BOY headed North for Marthas Vineyard Monster Shark Tournament.  Dominick and Keith once again had the boat for charter.  Two days of fishing in pea soup fog yielded no makos or threshers.  We did manage blue sharks on both days, but none heavy enough for the scales.  With close to 250 boats in the tournament, the overall fishing was poor.  Fishing hard and having a good time, we made the best of it.  Rudy and Second Mate, Frankie, did a top notch job.  Also, we want to say thanks to Dominick, Keith, and Rich for helping out as well.  Great job everyone... let's do it again next year.

On the way home, Rich, Rudy, Frankie, and I stopped to fluke fish the shoals in Vineyard Sound.  Holy $#*@! what an incredible fishery, it is unbelievable.

 

JULY 5, 2005     STEPHANIE SAND & FAMILY FISHING TRIP AND CRUISE TO NYC

Pulling out of the inlet around 1 o'clock, we quickly ran into the bunker pods.  Trying numerous pods, we finally found some that held fish.  After an exciting battle, a 30 lb. striper was landed.  With sea conditions not being the best, and taking it's toll on a few passengers, they felt the city would be a better choice.

 

JULY 4, 2005     RICH, DOMINICK, AND JOHN

Fishing 45 miles east of Manasquan Inlet, the crew had their own fireworks, going 2 for 4 on makos.  Most of the action came just before noon releasing an 80 pounder and bringing the gaff to a 100 pounder.  Mackerel and bluefish fillets worked best in the blue 69 degree water.

 

JULY 2, 2005     RICH AND FRIENDS

Tried our luck fishing some deeper water for fluke and it paid off.  Catching seven keepers averaging 2 to 4lbs and only a few throwbacks the crew was pleased.  Fished off Sandy Hook with all the action on squid and spearing.

 

JUNE 24-26, 2005     TOM, DOMINICK, AND KEITH PARTY

We had action on all three days of fishing, both the Mako Mania and the Jersey Coast Shark Anglers Tournament.  We caught and released 5 blue sharks up to about 200lbs. and caught 2 small makos both going about 100lbs.  Bluefish live, dead, and fillets proved to be the choice of bait for the makos.  Fished the Glory Hole and the Triple Wreck areas.  Overall, we had a wonderful 3 days of fishing and the guys from the charter were exceptionally great.

 

JUNE 19, 2005     THE FATHERS DAY TRIP

This father's day trip was one that won't be forgotten.  With Rich's father, Jack Klein and our mate Rudy Wilson's dad, Rudy, we were determined to find some bass.  Despite the 5ft seas, and 20 knot northeast winds, we still managed to throw the cast net and fill the livewell with bunkers.  With good readings on the fish finder, we stopped short of our final destination.  For an hour, the bite was red hot, putting five bass in the box and losing numerous other large bass due to rough sea conditions.  The fish weighed in at 23, 30, 31, and 35 POUNDS!  Oh yeah... we fished all alone.

 

JUNE 15, 2005     RICH, MIKE, AND CAPT. JAY

Rich, Mike, and Captain Jay were on board for a morning bass trip.  After multiple throws with the cast net, we had the livewell full.  We got into bass pretty good near the Rocks despite the thick fog and heavy chop.  With our limit filled on bass over 34", we released the rest.  Fish ranged from 23lbs to 30lbs.  Good luck in Florida Jay!

 

JUNE 12, 2005     RICH AND JOHN

Fished south of the Manasquan Inlet chasing pods of bunker.  After fishing a few hours and multiple pods of bait, the bass were nowhere to be found.  Finished the day fluking off Seaside in 60ft of water.  Put some keepers in the boat and had some shorts.

 

JUNE 10, 2005     RICH AND JOHN

A late afternoon fluke trip off Belmar in less than ideal conditions, with the water temperature at 50 degrees.  Caught some fluke - all shorts.

 

JUNE 9, 2005     RICH, GERARD, AND MARK

Rich, Gerard, and Mark on an afternoon trip, trolling bunker spoons on Shrewsbury Rocks.  We managed a few bass up to 26lbs, and numerous bluefish in very cold water.

 

JUNE 5, 2005     THE CREW WITH JOHNNY B AND CHERYL

With boat traffic being the worst I've ever seen, it's no wonder the bass were no where to be found.  After trolling for 2 hours with only 1 hit, we decided to go wreck fishing for sea bass.  We got into the sea bass pretty good, catching over 3 dozen, and keeping 13 well over 12 inches - and many going 4lbs.  Small pieces of clam worked best.

 

JUNE 4, 2005     RICH, DOMINICK, AND JOHN

Today we had the boss, Rich, and two good friends of his, Dominick and John onboard.  Entering the 1 day Hi Mar bass tournament hosted by Twin Lights Marina in Highlands turned out to be a good thing.  With nasty conditions and no live bait to be found, we opted to troll bunker spoons for hopes of a large bass.  It paid off with the 2nd of 5 fish tipping the scales at 34 1/2lbs..  We were happy with 3rd place.  The other highlight of the day was pulling the hook on a trophy size bass.

 

MAY 30, 2005     THE CREW WITH TOM AND DOMINICK

After struggling with the weekend crowds for live bunker, we managed a net full.  West bank area produced all the action.  With 6 bass landed and numerous lost, the two heaviest went 25 and 30lbs.

 

MAY 28-29, 2005     THE CREW AND FAMILY

Cast netted live bunker both Saturday and Sunday.  Only to feed the majority to bluefish.  Did manage to get 6 bass on the live bait up to 20lbs.  Trolling spoons produced a few more bass and numerous bluefish.  Fished from Manasquan Inlet north to the west bank area.

 

MAY 21-22, 2005     THE CREW

The Crew fished an ASA tournament over the weekend hosted by Bahr's Landing.  With decent weather over two days of fishing, we managed an estimated 100 bass landed.  Fish ranged from 20 to 30lbs.  All taken on live bunker in the Raritan Bay.

 

MAY 14, 2005     THE CREW WITH MARIA & JOHNNY B

Fished the tip of Sandy Hook catching 32 Striped Bass with only a few Bluefish.  Bass ranging from 21" to 37".  Heaviest fish 18 pounds clams worked best.

 

MAY 10, 2005     THE CREW ACCOMPANIED BY DOMINICK, TOMMY, CARMEN & JOHNNY B

Fished Sandy Hook Bay catching 19 Striped Bass ranging from 22" to 35" with an occasional Bluefish.  Claims provided all the action.

 

OCTOBER 3-4, 2004     BRIAN ONEAL CHARTER

Fished the Spencer Canyon to the Carteret Canyon.  On the troll, caught 11 long fins between 50-60 pounds, and 15 mahi mahi.  Also caught a small mako chunking at night.

 

OCTOBER 2-3, 2004     DOMINICK SPAMPANATO

Caught 4 blue fins at "The Barcardi", went 4 for 6 on blue fins up to 90 pounds.  Went to "The Hudson", and chunked 2 yellow fin and 13 long fin.  We released 12 long fin, and 6 mahi's.

 

SEPTEMBER 26-27, 2004     FRED RADALIC

Caught 10 yellow fin, 4 long fin, and topped the catch with a 61 pound wahoo.

 

SEPTEMBER 25, 2004     CHRIS GRAF CHARTER

A great Inshore Tuna Trip, caught a 35 pound blue fin, and enjoyed great action all day with false albacore and skipjacks.

 

SEPTEMBER 23, 2004     DOMINIK AVIGLIANO CHARTER

On a Hudson Canyon Day troll, caught 10 long fin, 6 yellow fin, and 1/2 dozen Mahi.

 

 

SEPTEMBER 2, 2004 - SEPTEMBER 3, 2004     PAUL GAGLIOTI, VICTOR RODRIGUES, JOEY, BILLY, AND CREW

Fished the Spencer Canyon to the Carteret Canyon.  On the troll, caught 11 long fins between 50-60 pounds, and 15 mahi mahi.  Also caught a small mako chunking at night.

 

 

AUGUST 28, 2004     SAL SCANKARELLO

Caught 1 mako shark, approximately 100 pounds, and a 200 pound blue shark, that we caught then released.

 

AUGUST 26, 2004     CHRISTOPHER J. QUINN

Bluefished all morning - caught 55 bluefish, and caught 4 fluke in the afternoon.

 

AUGUST 24, 2004     FRED RADILICK

Fished the Carteret Canyon.  Caught 8 yellow fin and 2 Mahi Mahi.

 

AUGUST 22, 2004     ANDY DERENICK & FAMILY

Fished "The Farms" in the morning, and caught 40 bluefish.  Fluke fished in the afternoon, and caught a 5 pound and 7 pound fluke off the Sea Girt.

 

AUGUST 21, 2004     THE CREW

Fished the Sea Girt Reef and caught 12 keeper flukes up to 5 pounds in 3 hours, in adverse conditions.

 

AUGUST 17, 2004 - AUGUST 18, 2004     JOHN MAROTTA SR., JOHN MAROTTA JR., GERARD GALLUCCIO, & CREW

Fished the Lindenkohl Canyon, evening chunking.   Caught an 11 foot blue shark in the morning, and caught 4 yellow fin, 10 long fin, and 2 Mahi Mahi's, plus a 70 POUND WHITE MARLIN!

 

AUGUST 9, 2004 - AUGUST 10, 2004     JIM HAMMER, BILLY & KYLE SHERMAN, & CREW

Fished the Lindenkohl Canyon, and caught 12 yellow fin tuna up to 80 pounds, and 6 Mahi Mahi.

 

JULY 22, 2004     THE CREW

THE BIG BOY left at sunrise and took a 5 hour cruise to Montauk Point.  We began trolling around noon-time, catching some small stripers and some huge bluefish.  We finished the day bottom fishing, catching only large skate and dogfish.

 

JULY 23, 2004 - JULY 24, 2004     THE CREW

Fished Nantucket Sound, trolled "The Rips" and caught a few bluefish and bottom fished for approximately 3 hours subsequent, resulting in hitting our limit of 28 fluke (7 per man) - which we selected over20 inches and up to 7 1/2 pounds in weight.

 

JULY 18, 2004     THE CREW ALONG WITH ASHLEY AND THE GARVEY'S

Fluke fished off Seaside Heights, and caught 33 keepers up to 6 1/2 pounds, and 20 or 30 shorts.  It was a perfect day of fluking.

 

JULY 17, 2004     CHRIS ANZELONE

Bluefished out at "The Farms", and caught over 50 blues.  Fluke fished for a little while, but it was slow, only caught one keeper.

 

JULY 16, 2004     THE CREW

Fluke fished off Seaside Heights for about 2 hours.  Had 12 keepers and 15 shorts.

 

JULY 12, 2004     JACK APPEL CHARTER

Went bluefishing and caught a few 5-7 pounders.  Topped the day off with a 20 pound Mahi Mahi.

 

JULY 10, 2004     THE CREW ACCOMPANIED BY BRIAN SATISKY & CANDY

Drifted for fluke for 1 1/2 hours.  Caught 10 keepers up to 25 inches, and lots of shorts.

 

JULY 8, 2004     CANYON DAY TROLL     THE CREW ACCOMPANIED BY MIKE ROSE, PHILIP WEISS, AND FRIENDS

Fished the Carteret Canyon.  Caught 4 Yellow fins:  75 lbs, 65 lbs, 35 lbs, and 20 lbs; also 6 short Yellow fins.  Pulled a hook on a White Marlin after 20 minutes.

 

JULY 4, 2004     THE CREW

Went Fluke fishing, caught 4 keepers up to 25 inches, lots of shorts.

 

JULY 2-3, 2004     THE CREW

Fished the Lindenkohl Canyon and caught 10 keeper Yellow fin up to 50lbs, about 8 Skipjacks, a few dozen squid, and 10 throw-back Yellow fin shorts.

 

JUNE 25, 2004     THE CREW

Fished the Spencer Canyon and caught 8 keeper Yellow fin up to 45lbs, Skipjack Tunas, let go an 8' Blue shark, and lost a 250lb Mako at the boat.

 

JUNE 22, 2004     THE CREW

Fished for Bass early in schools on bunker off Bayhead.  Landed 3 Bass up to 35lbs.

 

JUNE 20, 2004     MAKO MANIA!     DOMINIK AVIGLIANO CHARTER

Fished The Fingers and released one 7' Hammerhead Shark.

 

JUNE 19, 2004     MAKO MANIA!     THE CREW

Fished The Fingers and lost one Mako when she jumped and landed on the line.

 

 

JUNE 18, 2004     THE CHUCK DETORRES PARTY

Caught their limit of Bass and released 10 up to 30lbs.  Spent 2 hours drifting the Sea Girt Reef which yielded some Fluke and Sea Bass.

 

MARCH TO PRESENT

We have fished very regularly since we took delivery of the vessel on March 9, 2004.  A few early season cod trips produced some nice cod and pollack mixed in with schoolies, big bergals and ling.  Early in April we had a few days of spotty blackfish, however, as the water warmed, we got in a few great trips with togs (Blackfish) up to 7lbs.

Striped bass season started early this year in the back of Raritan bay.  There are too many trips to talk about.  To sum them up, we clamed them, spooned them, and caught them with live bunkers up to 40lbs.

March to Present Photo Gallery

 

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BIG BOY Sportfishing

359 Long Avenue

Hillside, New Jersey 07205

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