The weather is changing and the temperature is dropping. This will bring big changes to our fishing – big drum will be finished spawning and heading out. There will still be a few to be caught into October, though, so keep a rod equipped with a DOA Popping Cork and Airhead Combo ready to throw at any bait you spot as you target trout, drum and flounder along the shorelines.
Trout action should improve as water temperatures drop. They are already staging up to move back into the creeks. I use DOA Cal baits in shad or jerk shad tails jigged along the bottom or a Deadly Combo, fishing it by popping it back at you. Hard plastics such as Rapala Twitching Rap and Storm Twitching Sticks will also produce well when worked slowly through the water.
Rock season opens October 1 and that will signal topwater time! There are loads of rock in the area which can be taken on top and also by jigging soft plastics around structure. I use Storm Chug Bugs and DOA Airheads for my topwater action with DOA Airheads also used with a VMC weighted hook to jig around structure. I am working on a new idea so stay tuned. If it works, I’ll be sure to let you know.
It is also time to start thinking of safety on the water – temperatures dropping can be dangerous if you fall overboard. The cold water can cause cramping, which can create your inability to swim or stay afloat. Be careful.
Pictured above: Ron Plecinski of New Jersey with a 48 inch Red Drum that he caught and released.