Fluke season starts runs June through August in New Jersey with a minimum
size of 16.5". On our first few attempts at Fluke fishing, we had
no problem finding and landing fish, but didn't have any keepers.
If you notice in the coming photos, Ben's rod changes from a light setup
to a heavier salt-water rod and reel. We started the season using
mostly our fresh-water rods but invested in some better gear as the year
went on.
When bottom fishing for Fluke, you'll also catch some Sea Robins and
skates. Here's Ben with a Sea Robin.
Here I am with another small fluke in the River and a small bluefish
in the bay.
Some more small fluke.
Here's a monster fluke. This day in August, Ben and I had landed
about 20 fish. None large enough to keep. Then I hooked into
this big door-mat of a fluke. Over 24" and very tasty! We had
a few more keepers in the coming week but none over 20".
The last few outings of the season in September and October we fished
mainly for Striped Bass and Bluefish. I brought home a bunch of bluefish
on a few outings. I never landed a Striped Bass though. I suppose
that's a 'first' I can save for next season.