Over the past five years, the mid-Atlantic region has generally experienced warmer weather. With that in mind, migration patterns of our targeted species have subsequently changed. I would like to touch on variables as well as fixed aspects of the relationship between fish and trending changes in weather. Last year the heat cranked right through August and we didn’t get relief until mid-September. This year, temperatures during spring and early summer were far above the norm, yet August and September were relatively mild comparatively. The end result is that water temperatures remained at 70 degrees in the bay as we enter October again this year.
Regardless of when the heat turns on each season, we are certainly experiencing warmer water temperatures than a decade ago. I am not advocating that we will continue this trend indefinitely until we reach a boiling point, but I think we can all agree that we are experiencing a change in climate, at least for a period of time.
Does this affect fishing?
As I have mentioned in previous commentary, changes in migration patterns are expected with a change in water temperature. Striped bass is a prime example as they continue to take longer residence in the upper rivers and bay waters. Fresh water holds more oxygen, which is essential when metabolism skyrockets due to fish living in a warmer environment. The same holds true for the food source they consume. They too find their way to a more suitable environment. High metabolism requires increased food intake, so the predators will seek locations holding the most abundant meals.
Having said that, there are fair numbers of juvenile striped bass in the local rivers and creeks. They are located in areas where shiners, bull minnows, peanut bunkers and shrimp are available. Some reach the minimum 19 inches and occasionally will top out in the lower 20-inch class. During the cooler nights of October, they will begin to feed heavier and school at times.
The larger specimens will likely arrive late to the show, as I don’t expect to see an influx of rockfish in the mid-20 inch class until water levels drop below 60 degrees in November. That is when the fish in the upper bay and rivers will descend on our local waters.
Striped bass season begins October 4 with a creel limit of one per person between 19-24 inches.
With cooler weather, we can look forward to continued hot action in the creeks and rivers for redfish and speckled trout. Many of the redfish (puppy drum) are landing in the slot of 18-26 inches, allowing anglers to keep up to three per person. Trout are available throughout the region yet the numbers of undersized fish far outweigh the larger specimens. Commercial gill netting has taken a toll on them this year, as did the freeze last winter that killed many of the large females. Anglers are afforded up to five trout a day over 14 inches, with an option of keeping only one over 24 inches in length. There is a growing conservation movement towards releasing the female trout over 20 inches in length.
The best action for all three species will be in-shore near grass beds or other structure during October. During November, the gates will open with strong migration and heavy feeding throughout the bay.
It’s amazing how many folks participate in the in-shore fishery. I have a growing light tackle inshore clientele. With miles of shoreline holding a favorable environment for fish to frequent, options are endless.
Anglers fishing from kayaks and canoes have had great catches fishing in natural areas. Spot and croaker are popular choices among anglers. This fishery, which is currently mixed with whiting and grey trout fades with the close of October. This mix of fish are often found along channel edges during the daytime but can also be found in the shallows during the evening hours.
Spot action is good over hard bottom locations boasting oyster beds in rivers and creeks. The mouth of the Rappahannock River always seems to hold an abundance of these tasty little fish.
Spend some quality time fishing with your family. Whether you are ‘catching’ or just ‘fishing’, the memories you make are priceless.
Until next time…fair winds.
Local Catches
