Though there wasn't any wild surface action today in Raritan Bay, bluefishing was still pretty good. At Atlantic Highlands, Capt. Rob Semkewyc said he had a few good shots with his Sea Hunter, and added another at the end. Capt. Ron Santee got it done mostly on bait from his Fishermen. Fluking was decent in the bay, though not fast. Prowler 5 had mostly shorts both in the bay and ocean, with a high hook of three fluke, but the Monday magic hours trip produced the boat's largest so far -- an 8 1./2-pounder by Joaquin Claro from North Arlington. Capt. Stan Zagleski reported a fluke limit on his Elaine B. II from Bahrs in Highlands for Mike Acito of Midland Park -- and most fares went home with a meal.
Vinnie D'Anton from Shark River Hills had a pick of three short stripers in the Bradley Beach surf, including a 27-incher on a Tsunami Halographic Eel
I made a brief attempt at Bay Head in shorts, and almost froze to the beach when the first wave flowed over my feet. The late afternoon south winds have resulted in severe upwelling and very cold waters.