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Blackfish Are Almost Here – Fishing for Blackfish in NYC Starts 10-15

Still catching Porgies every day out on Sheepshead Bay. We’ve got a ton of great spots available for those that want to get out on the water.

Throughout the week, we are embarking on porgy fishing expeditions from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, on Saturdays, we offer two distinct sailing slots: one from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and another from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

NEWS: Blackfish season is approaching and kicks off on October 15th. For those looking to catch this sought-after species, we will be sailing every day from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. But that’s not all. If you’re interested in porgy fishing but prefer a nighttime adventure, we’ve got you covered with evening trips from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

For those keeping track of seasonal trends, striped bass have started to make an appearance. We plan to switch over to nighttime striped bass expeditions soon, offering yet another dimension to your fishing experience.

Now is the perfect time to secure your spot. Tickets can be booked either through our website, MJ2Fishing.com, or by calling Capt. Tony at 646-413-1643 or Capt. Anthony at 347-952-1442. Private charter options are also available for those interested in a more personalized experience.

Don’t miss out on the best fishing near New York City; join us on one of our upcoming trips.

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Why Are Some Fishing Trips So Early in the Morning

At Marilyn Jean Fishing, we schedule fishing times morning, afternoon, and night depending on the season. We know you have busy schedules. We want to be there at a time that is convenient for you.

But we also know that many anglers – both on our boat and those that go fishing socially –  enjoy early morning fishing because it allows them the chance to catch schools of fish before the day gets underway. Choosing when to head out to sea can be a difficult choice when organizing an ocean fishing trip. For those less experienced with the open waters, it may seem odd that fishing trips always seem to be leaving so early in the morning.

Reasons For Early Morning Fishing

There is a long and storied history of fishermen leaving home for the ocean before the sun rises. While it may be simple enough to assume this is so that anglers can get the most out of their workday, there are many other reasons that fishing is best done at the crack of dawn.

Some of these include:

  • Better Fish Activity – Fish are generally more active during the cooler temperatures of the early morning, making it a prime time for catching.
  • Less Fishing Pressure – Early morning often means fewer people are on the water, resulting in less competition for prime fishing spots.
  • Cooler Temperatures – Especially in warmer climates, the morning offers more pleasant, cooler conditions, which can make the fishing experience more comfortable.
  • Water Calmness – Winds are often less strong in the early morning, resulting in calmer waters that are easier to fish in.
  • Increased Oxygen Levels – The cooler morning temperatures can increase oxygen levels in the water, making fish more active and easier to catch.
  • Insect Activity – Many types of baitfish and insects are more active in the morning, which can attract larger fish to the surface.
  • Better Light Conditions – The soft light of early morning can make it easier to see into the water, which can be advantageous for spotting fish.
  • Less Noise and Disturbance – Fewer boats and less human activity mean a quieter, more peaceful environment, which can make fish less skittish and easier to catch.
  • Personal Enjoyment and Solitude – Many people find the peace and tranquility of an early morning on the water to be a perfect way to start the day, providing a sense of solitude and connection with nature.

Fishing before, during, or right after sunrise can create many unique and memorable moments. Despite the early hours, it can be well worth the effort and extra coffee that it takes to get out on the sea. We look forward to beginning the day with you hopping aboard our finishing boat soon, regardless of whether you’re fishing early due to a busy schedule or just because you enjoy early morning fishing.

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Do You Know the Types of Porgy Fish?

Of all the potential ways to improve your diet, seafood tends to be a very popular choice. As most fish are low in saturated fats and high in protein, it can be easy to see why. And of these popular choices, the porgy fish has become quite in demand recently.

An east coast saltwater fish, porgy can be caught in a large quantity quite easily and has a similar flavor profile to that of red snapper or tilapia. With delicious meat and skin that crisps well, porgy’s low price, large population, and high quality have made it quite a common restaurant fish in recent years.

Notable Species of Porgy

There are many different types of porgies in the ocean. Depending on what part of the Atlantic Ocean you are fishing in, what you pull out of the water could look or taste significantly different than what you are expecting.

It’s important to know what kind of porgy you are buying, as there is even a specific variety that can be hallucinogenic. We’ll be discussing that variant of porgy, don’t worry. If you would like to learn a little bit more about the different types of porgies out there in the ocean, some of them include:

  • Scup – The most common porgy on your plate, Scup is a popular species found in along the east coast of North America. Scup has a reputation for a delicate flavor and is often fished for both its recreational and commercial benefits.
  • Sheepshead – This species of porgy can be caught all along the western coast of the Atlantic Ocean, but is commonly found along the eastern coast of the United States like Scup. Unlike Scup however, Sheepshead has firm flesh and boasts a sweeter, mild flavor.
  • Jolthead – Commonly fished in the western Atlantic Ocean as well, Jolthead are easily recognized by their large and protruding foreheads. This porgy is known for its fighting strength by different fish anglers, as well as its delightful taste.
  • Red Porgy – Red porgy are also found in the western Atlantic Ocean, but specifically in the Gulf of Mexico. With a firm texture and mild flavor, the red porgy is most commonly used for finer culinary meals.
  • Salema Porgy – This species of porgy is native to the east Atlantic Ocean, specifically the east coast of Africa. Studies have found that the effect of the Salema Porgy’s toxins are similar to taking LSD, potentially causing days of vivid hallucinations. Salema Porgy will never be served to you or available for purchase at a common fish market, but it is important to know the difference.

Understanding the different kinds of porgies is more than just knowing what part of the ocean your food came from. Porgies have a wide variety of flavors and consistencies, so understanding the different species available to you can help you plan nutrition plans and meals accordingly.

Whichever porgy you go with, you can count on finding an affordable and delicious fish that will play well with the rest of your dietary needs.

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Tips and Tricks for Preparing Porgy

Seafood can be a fantastic way to provide your diet with a little bit of extra nutrition. Recently, the porgy has become a popular option for many in the restaurant industry and at home because of its delicious meat and cheap price at the fish market. This Atlantic saltwater fish has a lot in common with snapper or tilapia, and can be used for everything from salads to fish and chips.

That being said, preparing a new kind of fish can often be a challenge if we are not experienced with cleaning and cutting seafood. Porgy as well is known to have quite a few bones in it, so taking the time to prepare the fish thoroughly can save you a lot of unnecessary effort in the kitchen later.

Cleaning and Filleting a Porgy

Despite its bony interior, filleting a porgy is usually a straightforward process. If you have cut and clean a fish before, you should not find it too difficult. There are still a few tips and tricks that can help you save some time.

Whether you are experienced or trying to figure out what to do with this fish for your first time, follow these directions below and enjoy your porgy:

  • Prepare Your Space – Make sure you’ve cleaned your work space thoroughly before pulling out the raw fish. You’ll need a sharp fillet knife and a cutting board for this process.
  • Descale the Porgy – The first thing you will need to is descale your fish. It is best if you start from the tail and scrape the scales slowly towards the head of the porgy, working on both sides of the fish as you move towards the head.
  • Cut the Gills – After the fish has been descaled, place the porgy on the cutting board, making sure to have its belly facing upwards. Make a small cut with your fillet knife behind the gills of the fish.
  • Gut the Porgy – Your next step will be to run your fillet knife across the belly of the porgy, from head to tail.
  • Remove the Guts and Head – After this you will need to remove the entrails of the fish, and if you would like at this point you may also remove the head of the porgy.
  • Fillet the Fish – To fillet your porgy, you will need to lay the clean fish down on your cutting board, with its back facing up towards you. Then, starting from the head, make shallow but long cuts along the fish’s backbone, from head to tail. It’s important to use smooth, consistent motions to remove the meat from the bones.
  • Extra Tip About the Bones – If you are having too much trouble with the bones of the porgy, a good way to deal with a bony fish is poaching them in a broth before flaking the meat out. While this method will destroy a potential fillet, the porgy can still be used to make soups, salads, or fish cakes.
  • Clean and Trim the Porgy Before Cooking – Lastly, you will want to trim away the extra fat from the fillets. You can also remove the fins and skin at this point.

It can be a little bit of extra work to prepare a porgy yourself. But the mild and sweet flavor of the white, tender porgy meat is sure to make it well worth it in the end.

The skin of a porgy fish also crisps easily and flakes with a delicious finish as well, so be sure to save the skin during the cleaning and filleting process. With a little practice and a bit of care, you’ll be making delicious meals with this popular fish before you know it.

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Tips and Tricks to Prepare for a Fishing Trip

A successful fishing trip is all about preparation. The items you pack and the information that you gather ahead of time for your trip can mean the difference between a fun outing for everybody or an ill-prepared excursion out on the water.

There are many different aspects to a fishing trip as well, and they all need your consideration. You need to take in account the weather, what kind of waters you will be sailing on, and whether there is any chance that you may need to call off the trip early? There is also the type of fish that you are actually going to be looking for, and making sure that you have the correct resources to catch that particular fish.

All these aspects make a huge difference in not only your preparation, but also the type of fishing trip that you’re going on.

What Should I Do Before a Fishing Trip?

Every fishing trip is going to have its own unique set of requirements and preparations. These are not necessary for every trip, but it is important for you to know where you are going, what you will be fishing, and what your expectations should be for that trip. If this is a private trip, you can discuss this between you and your friends or family before heading out on the water. If this is a chartered fishing trip, reaching out to the organization hosting it is a great way to find out what to expect.

We can’t explain every different potential ecosystem or situation in one list, but we can go over some of the basic preparations you should take into account before going fishing. These tips make for a great beginners checklist so that you are able to enjoy your fishing trip with a degree of confidence:

  • Get a Good Night’s Sleep Before the Trip – Preparing yourself the day before a fishing trip is a fantastic way to get ready. The number one thing you’ll want to do is make sure you get a proper sleep. Besides, most fishing trip starting quite early and this will allow you to be more alert while on the boat. Being well rested can also help fight off seasickness if that is something you are worried about. On top of this, it is also smart to avoid alcohol or caffeine the day before.
  • Packing the Right Gear – There are many different items that you can bring on a fishing trip, and it is important to make sure that you pack the correct gear for the day. Make sure you bring sunscreen, as you will most likely be out in the sun for hours if not all day. A solar generator can also be useful if the trip is going to be longer. This can help power smart phones, depth finders, or even coolers if you want to keep your catch fresh for a longer trip. A basic survival kit is also a great addition to your packing list, and of course you will want to make sure that you bring all of your fishing gear. Fishing kits often include baits, lurers, line cutters, fishing line, reels, and several fishing rods as well as the aforementioned coolers for your fresh catch of the day.
  • Brush Up on Essential Fishing Skills – Whether you are experienced at fishing or this is your first time out on a boat, it is still important to brush up on the basics of fishing. Going over different knots, and making sure you are at least familiar with them is a smart preparation. It is smart to give water reading an overview as well. Water reading is the term used to describe how those who are fishing are able to gauge not only the presence, but also the location of different fish in the water. Finally, casting and hooking are the basics of any fishing excursion, and it can be important to give them a review before going out. For casting, you can practice by throwing a line six feet out and making sure that your reel settles comfortably underneath your dominant hand. As for hooking, you will need to make sure that the fishing line does not break under the weight of the fish you are attempting to catch. A good way to practice this is to apply moderate pressure onto your line and then move that pressure back up the rod, and watch to make sure your line stays taught the entire time.

A little bit of preparation for fishing trip can go a long way. It is important to always have a respect for the environment you are fishing in. By bringing the correct resources and supplies, you’re able to better ensure that you are not going out unprepared. As we said before, this is only a basic overview for a fishing trip. Once you have more information like where you are going, and what you will be catching, it is important to research those specifics to have a more accurate picture of what your day out on the water will be like.

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Fishing Report – August 6th, 2023

What a day for porgy fishing in the famed Sheepshead Bay! Our 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. trip was a success with ample catches and lots of excitement. Participants enjoyed the beautiful waters and the abundance of porgy, a true reflection of the area’s rich aquatic life. Private charters and other options are available for those eager to join the fun. For more information, visit MJ2FISHING.COM or call Capt Tony at 646-413-1643 or Capt Anthony at 347-952-1442. It was a day to remember, and we look forward to more unforgettable experiences!

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Answers to Common Porgy Questions

For many years porgy, also known as scup, was largely ignored by local fish catchers on the east coast. Much more similar to snapper than anything else, porgy has since become a favorite selection for its ability to adapt to most flavor profiles and its current large and wild population.

7 Things You Should Know About Porgy

There are still a lot of questions many have about porgy however. Because it has become the catch-of-the-day so recently, many of the cooking facts we know about salmon, halibut, tuna, snapper, and other seafood are not commonly understood about this east coast fish. Thankfully, those answers are easily found here:

  • What is the Flavor of Porgy? – Porgy, also called scup, has a mild and sweet flavor with white, tender meat. The skin easily crisps and flakes with a delicious finish, and the fish overall is commonly compared to snapper in terms of flavor and quality.
  • Does Porgy Have a Lot of Bones? – It is important to know that porgy does have a lot of small bones. When choosing your fish, it is good to try and buy larger porgy. This will result in a better meat to bone ratio, and make the bones much easier to remove when preparing.
  • Is Porgy Good for You? – Rich in vitamins B6 and B12, as well as niacin and phosphorus, porgy has quite a bit of nutritional value. As a lean fish it is also low in sodium, while a great source of low-fat protein.
  • Is Porgy a Red Snapper? – While commonly referred to as white snapper along the gulf coast, porgy itself is not a true snapper. Despite having many similarities to red snapper, porgy is part of over 100 species of fish called seabream, while snappers are part of an inland variation referred to as bream.
  • How Long is Porgy Good For? –Cooked porgy can be stored for roughly three days in most household refrigerators. However, if you want to freeze your porgy, it will last a little over a month before the texture and flavor are affected by the cold.
  • Where are Porgy found? – Abundant from Massachusetts and Long Island down to Cape Canaveral in the Florida Keys, porgy is a populous east coast fish. They prefer reef habitats, ranging from 100 to 240 feet deep.
  • How Do You Cook Porgy? – Any way you want to, honestly. We have a great recipe guide here that covers some of the more classic uses of scup, but truly if there is a seafood dish you enjoy, porgy can most likely be used in the recipe with minimal tweaking.
  • Is Porgy Hallucinogenic? – Salema porgy can contain hallucinogenic toxins. Native to the African east coast, these are not the porgy or scup we are discussing in this article, but they are commonly mistaken for our porgy in conversation, so we feel it is important to make the distinction. Scientists have equated the effect of these toxins to the same as taking LSD, causing days of potentially scary and vivid hallucinations. Salema porgy is not a fish you will ever be served, but it is important to know the difference.

So, as the food industry pursues new flavor profiles and recipes based upon the once overlooked but always delicious porgy, it is important that we understand the seafood we are working with. Our friendly scup makes a delightful substitution when snapper or tilapia is unavailable or overpriced. We hope you find many ways to enjoy this slightly sweet finish as it makes its way to your fish markets, restaurants, home kitchens, and plate.

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About Eating Porgy: One of the Most Popular Fish in NYC

Improperly labeled as a bottom feeder of the East Coast, Porgy is quickly becoming a cornerstone for sustainable seafood. From fish and chips to poke, the Porgy has begun a transformation from the unwanted catch of the day to an undeniable boon as we look for better ways to harvest a livelihood from our planet.

Once referred to as bycatch, restaurants have already spent decades giving Porgy the wayward eye. Its ease to catch and overly populous presence in the ocean strangely became the Porgy’s best defense against the fishing boats and markets of America.

If it was that common and unremarkable, why would anyone want to eat it?

Because it tastes delicious.

Porgy’s inaccurate reputation as a common bottom feeder was misguided. More and more people are cooking up and grilling this abundant fish, and finding that it has an incredible taste when properly prepared. But its reputation also meant that it has largely been untouched. This has allowed the Porgy to remain in the eastern waters without much disruption, breeding and growing in numbers to the point where – during porgy season – you can catch mountains of them and barely touch the local populations.

Now, as we look for new farming strategies, Porgies give us a chance to pull from their population while schools of other seafood find opportunities to breed and repopulate. Sustainable fishing requires a balanced handling of the ocean’s ecosystem, and the Porgy have found their new part to play as we seek to improve our methods of ocean farming.

So, as we pursue a food industry founded in responsible consumption, many chefs are looking to this creature – once referred to as “trash fish,” – as a rising star of culinary cuisine. With a taste that rings with a slight sweetness and less oily texture than many other forms of seafood, Porgy makes a fantastic substitution for many recipes that often call for the dwindling numbers of white fish at our disposal, and can taste delicious in their own right when made the right way.

Recipes

  • Porgy Poke by Chef Todd Mitgang: Poke isn’t just for ahi tuna anymore. The healthy and refreshing Hawaiian meal makes a perfect host for the Porgy, where it’s sweet texture is elevated by the mixture of cucumbers, sesame seeds, macadamia nuts, scallions, and basil that are mixed amongst the sherry vinegar, spicy sesame and tamari soy sauce base.
  • Baked Porgy: Porgy also know how to be easy, baking to deliciously crispy finish in just about 20 minutes at 400 degrees. After cleaning and descaling the fish simply add the spice mixture on top of the Porgy before baking (be sure to save extra spice mixture for plating). The mix of onions, ginger, pepper, lemon, garlic, cilantro, and soy make a delightful seasoning that not only fill in the gaps of the Porgy’s flavor profile, but also utilizes its lower oil concentration to achieve crispy skin on the outside that is absolutely worth every crunch.
  • Chili-Rubbed Porgy: The Porgy isn’t done with the spices yet. A combination of onions, lime, butter, cilantro, Swiss chard, okra, and quinoa creates a bed for the Porgy that balances the meal. Like the baked variety, this pan-fried Porgy recipe also puts the delicious skin of the fish on display right where it belongs.
  • Fried Porgies: Last but certainly not least, Porgies know to the fish and chips concept and run with. Nothing fancy here, as we’re utilizing buttermilk, flour, cornmeal, old bay seasoning, salt, pepper, lemon juice and canola oil to fry up sweet little Porgies. With a low carb count on a fried meal, this is delightful guilt-free treat.

If you’re ready to go out on the water, catch porgies, and see why it is increasingly considered one of the most delicious fish to catch in NYC, contact Marilyn Jean Fishing, today.

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Views from the Boat – July 4th Fireworks on the Water

The Marilyn Jean is a fishing boat. We take guests out on the water, seeking out the best fishing spots in all of New York City, and making sure that most of those aboard the Marilyn Jean come home with at least a few delicious catches.

But July 4th is for fireworks, and the best way to watch the fireworks is out on the water. So we took guests out to see the fireworks from the most beautiful spots we could find. Take a look.

Don’t worry, we kept a bit of distance. But the views were still spectacular. If you’re ready to enjoy some amazing fishing, or have some other reason you want a night out on the water aboard the Marilyn Jean – with our air conditioned cabins and beautiful boat – contact us today.

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Weather Patterns and Fishing Success in New York City

NYC has amazing waters for fishing. Rain, wind, snow, or sun, we can almost always go out on the water and help you come home with some amazing fish. We encourage you to contact us to schedule an appointment no matter the weather, because as long as it’s safe to go out, we’ll have a great time on the water.

But there’s no denying that weather can affect fishing in NYC. The following are a small portion of the ways that weather can play a role.

Weather Effects on Fishing

  1. Wind – Wind has a fascinating effect on fishing. Baitfish move in the direction of moderate, but not unsafe levels of wind. Baitfish also attract the big fish that you love to catch – the predatory fish. Fishing in the direction of wind can help you bring home a lot more bites.
  2. Water Temperature – Weather affects water temperature, which in turn affects which fish you are more likely to find. Blackfish, for example, prefer warmth. Striped bass. Knowing the weather helps you also determine which bait is necessary to catch the fish you want.
  3. Seasonal Variations – One of the reasons that many visitors choose to fish with Marilyn Jean is because we know what seasonal fish to expect, when, where, and how to get to the best fishing spots to catch them. Different seasons offer different fish, and we help you know where to get them.
  4. Rain – Rain changes how we catch fish. It can make it a bit more uncomfortable out on the water, but it also increases the activity of some fish, washing food into their gathering spots and making them more likely to bite.
  5. Low Pressure Systems – When there is a low pressure system passing through, you are more likely to see fish acting hungry, which in turn makes them easier to catch.
  6. Warmth – Fish are more active and hungrier when the weather outside is warmer. When it is cooler, fish may be more prone to feeling sluggish, and less likely to respond to bait.

Finding the Right Places and Times to Fish

Fishing is as much a science as it is a hobby. You have to know where to go, know when to go, and know how to make sure that you have everything you need to catch fish when you get there. Join us today to catch fresh, right here aboard the Marilyn Jean.