Capt. Rob Semkowyc has had barely enough anglers to sail his Sea Hunter from Atlantic Highlands this week because keeper stripers have been scarce. Yet, the sportfishing has been great. Catches today ranged from 30 releases up to 59 before the bite died at 12:30. One keeper was boated, and two others were just short.
Whatever bass have been caught from the surf have been small. Grumpy's Tackle in Seaside Park hasn't had a bass on the scales since last week. Surfcasters are picking at the small bass in many areas despite a big swell, though I never had a touch this morning at Bay Head or this evening at Sea Girt.