Capt Morgan Madison 12/8/05

1. If holiday preparations and tree lighting ceremonies aren't getting in the way, there are still some bass to be caught and togs to be pulled from the Sound. Typically though, this time of year is predictably unpredictable. The winds and the weather seem to be dictating what fishermen are doing more than the fishery. So except for those few bonus December days, it might be time to yield and let the seals and herring have their snowy wintry playground all to themselves.
2. Smaller stripers have begun to move into their holdover pattern and into the rivers, most likely those that spawned them. Colder water temperatures are certainly further inducing them to get a move on. A soft plastic or jig, slowly retrieved near the bottom, could easily bring a river strike. Also, deep trolling a small tube or scaled down umbrella rig could do the trick. Slow down the retrieve or troll.
3. The Shetucket and Naugatuck rivers continue to draw salmon anglers to their banks. Fishing has been good and even though one fish may be kept per day, the majority caught are being released. Freshwater licenses as well as combos for the 2006 season are now available at the shop.
4. Check out the Connecticut River for northern pike. A small live shiner baited on a number-six hook and fished on light line can yield surprising results. There have also been a number of largemouth bass caught from area lakes as well as trout from local rivers. Can ice fishing be far off?
5. In spite of the recent rainfall, several clamming beds in both Madison and Guilford have remained open. Many folks find this time of year particularly rewarding in that clams generally taste better and the crowds have dissipated. It is a good idea to check with the local towns before venturing out for a day of gathering round clams and/or steamers since this activity is weather-dependent. [the day written by capt morgan]