For me, as a descendant of Nantucket and New Bedford whaling captains, one of my proudest responsibilities as the Regional Administrator of the Greater Atlantic Region has been the recovery and conservation of large whale populations In recent months, we have received reports of increasing numbers of large whales in nearshore waters off the coasts of New York and New Jersey. Stranding network staff assess and respond to local stranding events, and then confer with NOAA's Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program staff at both the regional and national level to determine the best and most humane course of action for animals in distress.

Grumpy's Tackle in Seaside Park reports small bass have been hitting small plugs and teasers in the surf at sundown. Stephen Sautner noted that his 11-year-old son had fun Saturday morning releasing some of the small bass that were chasing peanut bunkers in the Long Branch surf.

After that the winter schedule starts with Wednesday and Sunday trips at 3 a. m. -- and Saturdays at 3 a. m. Jay Amberg reported there was no one fishing at Sea Girt this morning in rain and discolored waters. Miss Belmar Princess saw stripers on top Sunday, and also read plenty of them, but caught only a few each drift as they seemed to be turned off by the cold water.

Following are preliminary results of the Beach N Boat Tournament 2016 Top Anglers CONGRATULATIONS to All Beach N Boat Anglers!2 BLACK DRUM Place Angler Weight First Place Luke Dombrowski 74 Second Place Denise Theiler 52.

Capt. Rob Semkewyc has decided to conclude his season on the Sea Hunter from Atlantic Highlands. Thanks again from Capt Rob and the crew of the Sea Hunter.