Updated: Thursday, October 15, 2026 · Next update: Thursday, October 22, 2026
This Long Island NY fishing report covers mid-October, the best stretch of the year on the island. The striped bass fall run builds along the south shore beaches and inlets, and it is the lead story. False albacore are off the beaches, blackfish are on the structure, bluefish are feeding on bait, and fluke are heading offshore. Plan around the outgoing tide at the inlets and keep a close eye on wind and swell, which can change the surf in a day.
What’s Hitting
Striped bass are on the run along the south shore beaches and the inlets. False albacore are off the beaches, and blackfish are on the structure. Bluefish are feeding on bait, and fluke are heading offshore.
Expect the fall run to keep building as bait moves along the south shore, with blackfish providing steady action on the structure.
Where to Find Them
Fish the inlets at Fire Island and Shinnecock on the outgoing tide for stripers. Cast from the surf along the south shore for bass and blues, and fish the rocks and wrecks for blackfish.
The south shore beaches from Democrat Point to Montauk each have their own character. Inlets concentrate bait and fish on the tide, while open beaches rely on sandbars and cuts. Choose the spot that fits your tackle and experience, and always check access rules and parking permits before you go.
Tides & Conditions
With the moon heading toward first quarter, tides are easing. The outgoing tide at the inlets is best, since falling water flushes bait from the bays through the inlets to waiting bass.
Wind and swell can transform the surf in a day, so keep an eye on the forecast and fish the calmer side of any storm. Check a current tide chart and marine forecast before every trip.
Tackle & Tactics
- Stripers: bucktails, swimming plugs and live bait.
- Blackfish: green crabs on a heavy jig.
- Gear: a medium-heavy rod with 30 pound braid handles both.
Match the bait size to what you see: peanut bunker calls for small plugs, while bigger baitfish call for larger swimmers. For blackfish, use a heavy jig and fresh crab, and keep your line tight to feel the subtle bites.
Local Intel This Week
Fish concentrate at the inlets and along the beaches. Use Captree State Park as a base for the Fire Island Inlet area, walk out toward Democrat Point to fish the inlet mouth and the surf on the outgoing tide, and set up at Shinnecock Inlet for stripers and blackfish on the rocks. Check parking and access rules at each spot before you go. Check current state and federal regulations and seasons before keeping fish.
This Week’s Tip
Fish the dark. Dawn and dusk are prime for stripers along the surf. Low light lets bass push bait tight to the beach with less caution, and the first and last hour of light often line up with the most active feeding.
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