Coastal Fishing Report - June 23 Update

Tuna Fishing and Challenging Sea Bass Bite

The coastal areas are experiencing a return of windy conditions and occasional rain, which are less than ideal for fishing. However, anglers are resilient and always find a way to fish. Prior to the arrival of unfavorable weather, tuna fishing at the tuna grounds was excellent this week. Captain Alex Beane of the Boss Hogg had a successful trip, landing six bigeye tuna weighing up to 130 pounds, 13 yellowfin tuna, and two mahi. Other offshore boats also had quick success at the canyons, with abundant catches of yellowfin tuna and reports of bigeye tuna. Most of the reports are coming from the Wilmington and Poorman's Canyon.

Sea Bass Bite and Inconsistent Surf Action

Captain Monty of the Morning Star reported that sea bass fishing has been challenging lately, requiring anglers to move around frequently to locate fish. While many spots would mark fish, only a few bites were produced. However, there was one exceptional day at the sea bass grounds, although it appears to be an outlier.

Surf Fishing and Productive Inlet and Back Bay Areas

Coastal correspondent John Unkart mentioned a decline in surf action at Assateague last weekend, as small fish nibbled on bait, preventing larger fish from taking the opportunity. Similar reports of lackluster action came from the OSV areas, with one angler reporting no bites over two full days of fishing. Fortunately, the OC inlet and back bay areas are proving to be more productive. Angler David Moore from Shark Whisperers experienced nonstop action on tautog, under-slot stripers, and triggerfish that showed interest in sand fleas. He even spotted some Spanish mackerel jumping around. Fish In OC has received reports of good fishing for rockfish and bluefish near the Route 50 bridge. Anglers using soft plastics and Gotcha plugs have successfully landed blues weighing into the mid-30s.

Flounder Fishing in Coastal Bays

Coastal bay anglers are still catching a few flounder, but the main challenge lies in finding clean water and avoiding heavy boat traffic in Ocean City. Sea Hawk Sports Center hosted the first annual Mike Taylor Flounder Frenzy tournament, where the top three places recorded flounder weighing over four pounds, with the largest fish tipping the scales at over four and a half pounds. Successful methods have included using flounder rigs tipped with Gulp! baits, minnows, or silversides.