A day earlier than normal as we celebrate the Fourth of July on a Thursday, giving some access to a four-day weekend for quality fishing time in the New Jersey, Delaware Bay region. Black sea bass (one fish, 12-1/2 inches) is back in play for July and August, a nice addition to a box full of fluke. A look at the weather and tides this week, followed by a look at surf fluke tips from the July edition and in Jenni’s Open Boat as well. Head back in Jersey Shore history with a look at the “marine life bites” of 1916 and learn about new efforts to tackle the beach shark problem in the Garden State. Get a quick look at the weather for the next few days and some “fresh” ideas for escaping the coastal crowds from the Pines to the Poconos. Additional Fourth of July surf options include cow-nosed rays, kingfish, spot and yes, sea robins, a rather tasty summer surprise. Ling of red hake have been plentiful which is about as good as it gets when simply smoked. Finally this week an Independence Day message from 248 years ago this week and a special Manhattan Cup award presentation from the docks at Belmar.
