Gray FishTag Research Northeast Striped Bass Study

Posted on November 20, 2019November 20, 2019 by Julio Silva

Gray FishTag Research (with the help of The Fisherman Magazine, Navionics, Rocket Charters, and Fin Chaser Charters) started a satellite tag study on striped bass in the Northeast. On May 21, 2019, two striped bass were tagged with Wildlife Computer MiniPAT tags in New York’s Hudson River: “Liberty” and “Freedom”.

Unlike an analog “spaghetti tag”, the Wildlife Computer MiniPAT tag captures real time data:

Tracking Data: light-based geolocation
Diving Behavior: time-at-depth histograms
Temperature Profiles: profile of depth and temperature

Based on the data collected, scientists want to learn about the temperature profiles, depth profiles, and long term movements of striped bass.

On August 22, 2019, Freedom‘s tag washed up on Sagamore Beach in Massachusetts. The analysis of the data is starting to paint an interesting picture. However, data from additional fish is required to make scientific conclusions.

On October 22, 2019, Liberty‘s tag washed up along the beach at Loch Arbour in New Jersey. The data is still being processed. The results will be published next month.

This amazing study is only possible with collaborations, sponsors, and donations. Each Wildlife Computer MiniPAT tag costs $5,000.00. To help keep this study running, you can provide support via GoFundme or by shopping via Amazone Smile.

Rebel Buzz’n Frog DIY Modification

Posted on November 18, 2019November 18, 2019 by Julio Silva

I purchased the Rebel Buzz’n Frog because of it’s action. The frog is 2.5″ long and weighs 0.5 oz. The stock hook is made from thin wire, which can be easily straightened by a trophy fish. The stock hook can also be threaded on and off, which can lead to a lost fish. Hence, I modified the frog!

Fish360 Rebel Buzz'n Frog Modification

First, I removed the stock hook. I then removed one of the hook arms from a 2/0 VMC treble hook via mini bolt cutters; the one that was welded on to the shafts of the other two.

Fish360 Rebel Buzz'n Frog Modification

Second, I slipped the modified VMC hook on to a 50 lb Tactical Anglers clip. I then inserted the Tactical Anglers clip into a piece of heat shrink tubing until bottom of the butting touched the bends of the hooks.

Fish360 Rebel Buzz'n Frog Modification

Third, I secured the other end of the Tactical Anglers clip to rear end loop of the frog and moved the heat shrink tubing up until the Tactical Anglers clip was fully covered . And lastly, I applied heat.

Fish360 Rebel Buzz'n Frog Modification

I have confidence in this modification because it provides a strong hook without impacting the frogs action. I fish this frog in clear water to get the maximum action.

Cuttyhunk and The Elizabeth Islands

Posted on November 17, 2019November 21, 2019 by Julio Silva

During my annual surf fishing trip to Cuttyhunk this past June, I picked up a copy of “Cuttyhunk and The Elizabeth Islands”. I now have a deeper understanding of the role that these small islands off the coast of Massachusetts played in the formative years of the American Experiment.

Fish360 Cuttyhunk and The Elizabeth Islands

This book provides a historical overview of the Elizabeth Islands (Cuttyhunk, Penisese, Nashawena, and Paque); from when they were founded to modern day. The first commercial interest in these islands was timber. After the timber was harvested, farming took root. Recreational fishing soon followed. The Cuttyhunk Fishing Club and the Pasque Island Fishing Club were established. The members of these clubs fished lobster tails from DIY stands perched on the slippery boulders studding the shorelines of these islands. Landing a 60 lb striped bass in the surf through a boulder field with a graphite rod, braided line, forged hooks, and a water proof reel with 40 lbs of drag is a challenge for a skilled surfcaster. I cannot image how a CFC member landed a 64 lb striped bass with gear from 1882!

According to this book, Charlie Cinto landed his 73 lb striped bass from his boat off the coast of Nashawena Island. However, an old salt on Cuttyhunk, who recalls the catch, told me a different story. One thing is certain, recreational fishing on the Elizabeth Islands was and is legendary. I hope with prudence, fishing on the Elizabeth Islands shall remain legendary for my grandchildren’s children and their grandchildren’s children.

Fish360 Cuttyhunk and The Elizabeth Islands

Before the United States Coast Guard, volunteers from Cuttyhunk and Nashawena rescued people, live stock, and goods from ships resting on the rocks and reefs around the islands.

Aquatic, 1843
Mary Givan, 1872
Anna Mitchell, 1875
William H. Thorndike, 1879
Rob and Harry, 1892
Joseph Oakes, 1896
Stephen G. Hart, 1911
Wanderer, 1924

The volunteers were family men. These family men were selfless and always willing to help others at the risk of their own lives! Why? Because that was the right thing to do. Reading these acts of bravery makes me proud to be an American.

I enjoyed reading about the families who lived on the Elizabeth Islands. Family is the basic unit of humanity. I also enjoyed reading about the birth of America’s recreation fishing industry. Work hard. Play harder.