Updated: Thursday, October 29, 2026 · Next update: Thursday, November 5, 2026
This Montauk fishing report is a seasonal outlook for the Point, the rips and the rocky shoreline at the east end of Long Island. The fall striped bass run is building as bait moves down the island, with bigger fish arriving at the Point. The rips and the wind are the controlling variables, since strong tide against wind creates dangerous seas.
What’s Hitting
Striped bass are the headline, with larger fish showing at the Point and in the rips on a moving tide. Bluefish hold in the rips, and tautog are on the rocks and wrecks. Sea bass and cod are available offshore. False albacore may still show on warm days, and porgies hold on inshore structure. Large fish often feed at night, and the rocks near the Point can produce trophy bass for anglers willing to fish the dark hours.
Where to Find Them
Montauk Point State Park and the rips off the Point are the traditional spots for big stripers. The surf below Camp Hero and Ditch Plains holds bass at dawn and dusk. Rocky shorelines along the north side and the Montauk Harbor jetties hold tautog, and Block Island Sound offers offshore options. Shore anglers can also work the beaches near Ditch Plains and the jetties at Montauk Harbor, where bait gathers after dark.
Tides & Conditions
With the moon waning, tidal flow in the rips is easing but remains strong. The east-going tide at the Point is a classic window, and slack tide is best for tautog. Wind against tide can create dangerous seas, so check the forecast and be conservative with small boats. Plan trips around the tide change at the Point, since the strongest current produces the best feeding windows for stripers.
Tackle & Tactics
Bucktails, eels and swimming plugs for stripers, with a medium-heavy rod and 30 to 40 pound braid. For tautog, green crabs on a heavy jig. Dress for cold wind and wet rocks, and wear cleated boots or studded waders when fishing from rocks. A black or purple eel pattern is a staple for night fishing around the Point, and a slow retrieve works best.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes Montauk Point State Park, Camp Hero State Park and Montauk Harbor. Fish concentrate at the Point on moving tide and along the surf near bait. Check current state and federal regulations and seasons before keeping fish, as striped bass rules are specific. Another worthwhile location is the Montauk Lighthouse area and Turtle Cove, where rocky shorelines provide structure.
This Week’s Tip
Fish dawn and dusk. The biggest stripers feed in low light, and the Point is often quiet during the middle of the day.
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