Though it's been a generally tough year for bluefish since the early spring run, there are signs of better fishing for them in the fall. The Golden Eagle from Belmar reported a good Saturday night trip for 3-to-6-pound blues on bait, with "several" 12-to-15-pounders mixed in along with some big bonito. Vinny D'Anton of Wall got into blues from 3 to 7 pounds on poppers in Shark River this morning -- their first appearance in some time. Anglers casting into Point Pleasant Canal at night continue to hook big blues while seeking stripers with jigs and live eels. The Fishermen from Atlantic Highlands had another great day with porgies plus the one blackfish allowed today, as did the Ocean Explorer from Belmar. On the other hand, it was the same old story in the Sandy Hook surf as Allen Riley of South Plainfield reports he had beautiful conditions and cast all sorts of lures to no avail -- though there was some bait present.