Winter is still a great time for saltwater fishing in NYC and waters off the coast have a fair number of ling, sea bass, bluefish, and tautog. You can still reel in some exciting catches, even when the weather is cold, but you will want to come prepared for your fishing trip.
Being out on a boat on the water in cold and windy weather can be extremely uncomfortable if you are not prepared, so learn what gear to bring with you onboard if you are planning on a winter fishing trip.
What to Bring on a Winter Fishing Trip
Fishing in NYC is available throughout much of the winter, and depending on the weather, can sometimes yield good results with extensive fish activity during certain temperature changes or storm conditions. In order to keep you comfortable on board during these conditions, you will want to bring the following with you:
- Layers – You should wear several layers that you can easily take off and add onto while you are on the water. Wool or synthetic fabrics will keep you warmer, even if they get wet, and you should avoid cotton. Including a waterproof and windproof layer will prepare you for different conditions.
- Life Jacket Over Clothes – The life jacket should be your outermost layer while you are on a boat. Wear your life jacket over your other clothing.
- Hats and Gloves – Much of your body heat leaves through the top of your head. Wearing a hat, again made from wool or synthetic fabrics, will preserve that heat and keep you warmer. Gloves are a must to keep your fingers warm while you are fishing. It is helpful to choose gloves that are thin enough to give you a full range of movement without sacrificing warmth.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen – If the sun is out, it can still be bright when you are on the water, even in the winter. Sunglasses and sunscreen can help prevent sunburn or getting blinded by the sun while you are fishing.
- Snacks – You will be burning a lot of energy keeping warm, so you will need snacks to sustain you. Foods that are easy to eat with gloves on, like granola bars, are great. A warm thermos is also a great thing to have along with you.
- Hand Warmers – You can put hand warmers into your gloves, shoes, and pockets to keep you warmer. These can last for several hours and keep your toes and fingers warm in freezing weather.
Marilyn Jean Fishing runs trips throughout the year, often sailing rain or shine. To help keep you warm while aboard, we have a comfortable interior where you escape from any wind and weather while we travel from location to location. You can enjoy fishing while keeping warm on one of our party boat fishing trips. Check out upcoming winter fishing trips on our calendar.