Bluefish Invasion and Live Bait This Weeks Choice for Striped Bass

In this week’s action-packed episode of Bay Rats and Buoys, the bluefish have officially invaded the North Shore! These toothy torpedoes are pushing massive schools of bait into the back bays and lighting up the surface with explosive topwater strikes. It’s a thrilling time to be on the water, with birds working hard and both bass and blues feeding aggressively across the Long Island Sound.

While striped bass are still chewing, they’ve become noticeably more selective—favoring live bait presentations like bunker, butterfish, sand eels, and mackerel over artificial lures. But when the bite turns on, the topwater hits are nothing short of epic. We break down what’s working best this week, including our go-to lures and the bait that’s triggering the biggest blowups.

Water temps in the Sound are still holding around 60°F, and with air temps on the rise, we expect the bite to continue heating up as well. This is the prime time to chase trophy fish and soak in all the life happening on the water—from blitzing birds to bait balls getting crushed.

Plus, we’ve got updates on slot limits and key insight from the DEC. And don’t miss the wild moment when Chef Rob lands what can only be described as an “alligator”!

Subscribe now and join Captain Gaige and the crew for a wild ride in Episode 34—packed with big hits, tight lines, and conservation tips that matter. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share with your fellow anglers. Tight lines and we’ll see you on the Sound!

Bay Rats and Buoys – Where the fish stories are real and the action never stops!