Quite a few people thought that last weekend would not be a good weekend to go fishing. Despite numerous phone calls and even reservations anglers were not out in full force over the weekend. If you were planning to fish this past weekend and blew it off… you screwed up!

Capt. H.D. finally had the weekend weather window that he has been hoping for and got the first Jumbo Bass trip for ’07 under his belt. By all accounts this was a phenomenal trip! Just about everyone on board walked away with a limit of Jumbo-sized Sea Bass up to 6+ pounds with the average fish well over two. This was indeed a super trip!

While anglers aboard the 18-hr trip were reeling in double and triple headers of big Bass I sat at the dock staring out into the parking lot sipping hot coffee and waiting for a few folks to show up for the Tog trip. It didn’t happen. Lack of sponsors kept the Tog boat tied to the dock. Oh yea they bit well this weekend too.

It only stands to reason that the weather would turn so cold now; we really have been spoiled with the temperatures so far this year. The fishing scene will still go on despite the temperatures. Inshore water temps in the Delaware Bay have finally dipped below the 40-degree mark however the water temperatures at the Delaware Light Ship are still hovering around 46 degrees. This is the coldest it has been this winter however still well above the normal for this time of year. Capt. H reported water temps around 56 degrees on the offshore wrecks and this is just getting close to the prime temperature for the offshore migrations of these big Bass! You can expect more good fishing like this in the upcoming weeks. There were several Blues landed on this trip and also schools of Tuna around the boat. Sounds almost like fall fishing instead of the middle of the winter.

If you are interested in making one of these offshore trips, I would suggest a medium to heavy action rod capable of at least 30 or 40 lb. test line. High tech. braids such as spectra will also give you the edge fishing in these depths with no line stretch. Be prepared to fish with a pound of lead however most of time you can get away with 10 or 12 ounces. The same gear is also sufficient for the Tog trips as lot of times we are using heavier weights just to deal with the currents.

Our next 18-hour trip will be on the 17th of February. Remember advanced reservations are required for all special trips. These are limited space trips with a maximum of 47 head on board for your comfort. We will continue with the regular 8-hour trips for Blackfish every Saturday and Sunday. These are open boat trips with no reservations required.

If you would like more information about trips sailing out of the Wharf or you would like to reserve a spot for one of the upcoming 18-hr trips please give us a call at (302) 645-TUNA.

Until Next Week Happy Fishing!
Capt. Rick Yakimowicz
Thelma Dale V
catchfish@verizon.net