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THE
Hudson River
Fishermen’s Association
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NEXT GENERAL MEETING
OCTOBER 10th
Meeting starts at 7:30 PM
Ridgefield Park Elks Lodge
21 Cedar St
Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660
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TOPIC: "The Ins and Outs of Surfcasting with Lures"
SPEAKER: Michael Sardinas
BIO: Our current Vice President and past Pete Barrett Award recipient, Michael Sardinas, is a passionate and hard-working surfcaster from New Jersey. Michael can be found chasing Striped Bass along the Hudson River, Jersey beaches, Cape Cod Canal, and the beautiful coast of Martha's Vineyard.
SUMMARY: Michael will be sharing his knowledge of surfcasting with lures, including selecting proper equipment and accessories to make your time in the suds as productive and enjoyable as possible. Just in time for the upcoming fall migration and HRFA surf fishing events.
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Meeting ID: 839 8857 7222
Passcode: 568950
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All are invited to join the meeting
& share their fishing stories.
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Want to write an article for this newsletter?
If so, contact: editorriverviews@thehrfa.org.
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We still have a limited number (3) of
Gray FishTag Research bumper stickers left.
Your $25 donation supports the HRFA and FishTag's northeast striped bass tagging study. |
Why Donate?
- The HRFA was arguably the first and most successful group to find polluters of the Hudson River and hold them accountable. We continue our core mission to "Fight for the Hudson!" to this very day.
- The HRFA is a 501c3 tax-exempt nonprofit organization. You need another charitable tax deduction don't you?
- All of our members are volunteers. No member of the Elected Board of Directors earns an income for all their hard work. Every penny donated goes to support our programs.
- Our Youth Angler Program continues to get kids "Hooked on fishing, not on drugs." Help support us so that we can give America's veterans opportunities to go fishing too.
- Let us continue to offer scholarships for worthy college-bound high schoolers.
- Support the restoration of the world's first Riverkeeper vessel so it may take its rightful place in history. Perhaps, in a museum on the Hudson River; the river it protected for decades before its decommissioning.
- Help us realize our dream of having our own museum and meeting place in the Palisades Interstate Park. A beautiful historic place, one that can be shared with the public to enjoy as well.
- Shall we continue?
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Executive Meeting
1st Tuesday of every month Ridgefield Park Elks at 7:30 pm
21 Cedar St, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660
Executive Board Officers
President
Joseph Albanese
Vice President
Michael Sardinas
Treasurer
Aram Setian
Assistant Treasurer
TBD
Secretary
TBD
Membership
Arnold Ulrich
Directors
Scholarship & Fund Raising
Chair Jerry Crean
Youth Angler Program
Chair Wayne Geider
Hooked on the Hudson
Chair Pete Musse
Environmental
Chair Gil Hawkins
Publicity
Chair Miguel Sardinas
Fishing Contests
Chair Aram Setian
Chair Scott Havner
Outdoors Shows
Chair Dave Mercer
Chair Janice Soto
Outreach
Chair Dan Harrison
Director Emeritus
Tony Evangelista
Trustees
Ivan Garcia (2023)
Janice Soto (2024)
Dave Mercer (2025)
Nominating Committee:
John Golon
Gil Hawkins
Aram Setian
Social Media
Chair Alex Spindelman
Editor River Views:
Joseph Albanese
Send Comments to: editorriverviews@thehrfa.org
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Want to help us "Fight for the Hudson"? Click HERE or the striped bass image & make a donation today. |
The Hudson River Fishermen’s Association is a group of recreational fishermen who make active use of the N.Y. Bight and the surrounding water system and are concerned with the present and future state of these fisheries. Our objectives are to encourage the responsible use of aquatic resources and protection of habitat. We assist where possible in efforts to abate pollution and promote sportfishing and the management of that recreation. We are a IRS recognized nonprofit 501c3 organization . All donations are welcome and maybe tax deductable. |
Click HERE to become a member or renew your membership today.
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Why join the HRFA?
- Fellowship with other anglers.
- Learn valuable fishing tips from experts.
- We are a conservation minded club - fighting for the Hudson and public access - with a shared passion for fishing and doing good for others.
- Discounts at select sporting goods stores.
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The Mission of Spectrum for Living is to enable individuals who have developmental and/or physical disabilities to have the opportunity to attain their highest level of skills, purpose and independence with dignity through an ongoing commitment to comprehensive quality services, advocacy and family partnership.
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IMPORTANT NOTE: The full version of River Views is no longer just for members. If your emailed copy of River Views ends abruptly look for this quote "[Message clipped] "View entire message" at the bottom of the page. Clicking there will open up the full issue.
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Did you know that back issues of River Views, the monthly newsletter of the HRFA, are available for all to enjoy on our website? Click here, or the River Views banner, to go directly there and catch up on your reading.
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Greetings Gates,
ABOUT THE PHOTO
That's me, your President, at the Croton Yacht Club's Hudson River Day event. There were many organizations besides the HRFA at the event. (See the full report submitted by Dennis Kooney along with photos, by yours truly and others, in the pages below.)
Our founder, Robt. H. Boyle, and his compadres started the cleanup of the river by going after notable polluters such as General Electric which was discharging Polychlorinated Biphenyls (aka PCBs) into the waterway. In 1978 the US EPA banned the production of PCBs because it is carcinogenic, and its concentration increases up the food chain. Without question the Hudson River runs cleaner than in decades past. Yet, even after all these decades of environmental activism, regulations and clean-up, PCBs remain a chemical of concern.
Click on the photo to find the answer to the question "Can you eat striped bass from the Hudson River?"
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LIBERTY STATE PARK REVITALIZATION
Under the leadership of Governor Murphy and Commissioner LaTourette the NJ Department of Environmental Protection have big improvements planned for the park. Bravo!
However, there are still no plans, that I am aware of, to create opportunities for recreational fishing. No mention of shoreline access, in particular at Caven Point, for fishing by the group Friends of Liberty State Park either. We support their fight to preserve open spaces at the park for the public rather than a competing plan for an exclusive golf course and stadium. Our friend Heather Gibbons, over at Hoboken's Fund for a Better Waterfront, was kind enough to introduce me to Sam Pesin (President FOLSP) by text message. He responded that he will be glad to speak with me on the issue. Stay tuned.
I encourage NJ residents, especially members of the HRFA, to continue to fight for access to the river for fishing. One way to do so is to show up to the NJDEP Open House on October 18th. At 6:00 PM there will be a meeting seeking "Public feedback on design for recreational amenities". Details below. Let's make our voices heard!
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DART TAGS
At the upcoming EBoard meeting (Tues. Oct. 3) we will vote to move ahead with the more fish friendly dart-type tagging kits from the American Littoral Society. Last month the motion did not pass. At issue was concern for cost to maintain a minimum inventory to start the exploratory program.
We now know kits will still be 10 tags with 10 cards and cost $14. Needles will cost $22 each. We will need a minimum inventory of 100 kits and 5 needles. Even though buying in bulk drops pricing, that's a starting cost of $1,510.00 to the club. Hopefully, we have enough Citizen Scientists willing to participate. I believe we do. They might not sell out immediately, but they will sell.
If we go ahead, the Society agrees to ship directly to those members willing to pay the added postage; estimated at $5-$10. We will also have the option to bring tagging kits to our monthly meetings for those preferring to save on postage. If you choose to pick up tags at a meeting be sure to order well ahead of time.
PS. We currently still have some inventory of the clasp-type tags available for sale.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Your membership in the HRFA allows you to tag fish solely by purchasing tagging kits and needles from us. Without our club membership in the Society the initial cost for individuals to participate in the American Littoral Society's tagging program is $60 which includes 2 spaghetti-type tagging kits. There is an annual membership fee as well. Click HERE if you would like to learn more or make an added donation to the Society's tagging program. |
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STOP THE PRESS
The Hudson River Boat & Yacht Club just made us aware that the Army Corps of Engineers is calling for public input on an application requesting a commercial mooring for barges in the Hudson River across from Indian Point at Thompkins Cove. We will take this up at our Oct. 3 EBoard meeting. Deadline for public comment is October 12. Click HERE to read the proposal.
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THE HRFA CALENDAR
We recently added two new events - 1.) A Panfishing Derby (Oct. 7 to 28) and, 2.) An HRFA Invitational (Oct 14) vs. the NJBBA. Details below.
Tell an HRFA EBoard member what event(s) you would like to have. Please recommend guest speakers and topics for our monthly meetings too. Get involved.
Best regards,
Joseph Albanese
Joe
HRFA 2023 President
Email: president@theHRFA.org
Fight for the Hudson
PS. DISCLAIMER: Unless otherwise stated, the opinions in my monthly letter to members are mine. Although, others may agree to disagree.
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In this month's issue of River Views
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Please consider promoting your business in River Views. Click here to make a $60 donation and we will publish your business card, with a link to your company website, for 12 issues of River Views.
Your donation will support the mission of the HRFA to “Fight for the Hudson”, our Youth Angler Program, College Scholarship Fund, etc.
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Please check out Rainy's Rigs on Facebook. Rainy's is a sponsor of our Bass & Blues Derby.
THANK YOU!
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Aboard a 44' Henriques 6-pack with a large fishing cockpit powered by twin 550 HP diesel engines.
If you would like to be added to the contact list for upcoming charters please contact Dirk at:
dirkvan@optimum.net
or (201) 983-2402
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Here's what is in the rest of this month's River Views. You will find details on everything listed here by scrolling down through this newsletter.
Upcoming HRFA Events
2023
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NEW EVENT! October 7 t0 28: HRFA Panfish Derby on the Fishing Chaos App.
- October 10: General Meeting. HRFA Vice President Michael Sardinas will cover surf fishing. A prelude to our November 11th Bass & Blues Surf Fishing Derby.
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NEW EVENT! October 14: HRFA Invitational vs. NJBBA at Island Beach State Park
- November 11: Bass and Blues Derby at Sandy Hook
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November 14: HRFA General Meeting. Speaker Dennis Kuntz, 2nd Chance Tackle. Bring in your old, worn out, and tired reels needing rejuvenation. Dennis pledges a donation to the HRFA for every reel he services.
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December 12: HRFA Fishing Gear Green Market. THE place to sell/buy new/used fishing gear. Reserve your table(s). Limit 2 per donation.
2024
- January 9: General Meeting. Speaker TBD
- February 13: General Meeting. Speaker TBD
- March 12: General Meeting. Speaker TBD
- March 15-17: Saltwater Fishing Expo in Edison, NJ
- April 27: Hooked on the Hudson
- TBD: Annual Awards Dinner
Past Events
- September 2: The HRFA joined Walk Across the Bridge to protest the headlong foolhardy rush to industrialize the ocean with windmills. Read how offshore wind farms could directly impact the Hudson River.
- September 9: Croton River Day. Youth Angler Program
- September 12: General Meeting. David Vollenweider, Live to Fish Guide Service, covered musky fishing in NJ, as reported by Carl Bruger below.
- September 23: Yonkers Riverfest. Youth Angler Program. Postponed or canceled.
- September 30: Saltwater Fly Fishing Derby at Sandy Hook. Postponed!
Other Happenings
- October 18: NJDEP seeking public feedback on design plans for Liberty State Park Revitalization
- October 19 -21: Mr. Poseidon's 3rd Annual Montauk Challenge
- October 8 & October 21: Upcoming meal events at the Ridgefield Park Elks Lodge.
Carl's Corner
"Floss Your Salmon This Year" by Carl Bruger.
In the News
- Jenkinson's ordered by state to unchain fences blocking access to Point Pleasant beaches.
- The American Littoral Society fights for beach access.
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A new study on fishing and men's mental health. (Too bad the guy in the photo doesn't know how to properly hold a spinning rod. - The Editor)
Calls for Action
- Petition from change.org demanding an independent investigation of whale deaths
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An article from COA's July 2023 newsletter, Clean Ocean Advocate, "A Devastating Blow to the Ocean from Offshore Wind Projects: Take Action Now to Defend the Ocean".
- NJ's Operation Game Thief Tip Line. Help stop poaching. If you see something, say something.
- Notice to prevent spread of invasive baitfish
- Lake Access Bill
- Contacts of NJ Legislature
- Two shares from stopthesethings.com:
- Atlantic Fishery Under Threat: Offshore Wind Farm Substations Secret, Silent Killers
- Alternating Ocean Currents: Offshore Wind Turbines The New Climate Drivers
From our Membership Chair
Arnie Ulrich updates the monthly calendar and more.
From our Environmental Chair
Gil Hawkins shares a link to the United Nations' new "high seas" treaty. Gil calls it "a really important international treaty to protect the open oceans!"
That's Entertainment
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We share Riverkeeper's "One Dam at a Time" documentary film which was launched on September 26th. It documents their progress to un-dam tributaries of the Hudson River for the purpose of granting migrating species access to their spawning grounds. It is the core project of Riverkeeper’s Director of Habitat Restoration, George Jackman. Scroll down to watch it.
- Read "This Jig's a Keeper" by Lloyd Castillo.
Special Projects
The start of three (3) somethings BIG - the Spectrum Fishing Pier, saving the original HRFA patrol boat Riverkeeper, creating a permanent 'home' and museum for the HRFA.
Social Media
We share a recent Instagram post and invitation to send photos etc. to our Social Media Chair Alex Spindelman: a.spindelman@gmail.com.
From the Internet
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Discover the ruins of Cliffdale Manor. Thank you John Toth for sharing this fascinating piece of history in the Palisades. I may try to find it on my next hike! - The Editor
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"The Pogy Problem" by T. Edward Nickens published in Bonefish & Tarpon Journal Spring 2023
The HRFA Lending Library
A complete listing of books available in our library, maintained by Michael Sardinas. Three new books donated. Check out the updated list.
NJ Palisades Interstate Park's Calendar of Events
The PIP's calendar for the month, courtesy of the HRFA's 'Friend of The Hudson River' recipient Jeanie Ross.
HRFA Members' Photo Gallery
Do you have a fishing story to tell? But no time to write it? Well, wasn't it Confucius who said, "A photo is worth a thousand words." Submit your photo to editorriverviews@thehrfa.org.
2023 HRFA Annual Fishing Contest
Friends & Supporters of the HRFA
Please email comments, photos, articles, news and other things of interest to members to care of The Editor. We could use the material!
The Editor
River Views
editorriverviews@thehrfa.org
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Please consider promoting your business in River Views. Click here to make a $120 donation and we will publish your larger size ad, with a link to your company website, for 12 full months of River Views.
Your donation will support the mission of the HRFA to “Fight for the Hudson”, our Youth Angler Program, College Scholarship Fund, etc.
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Be sure to also check out the H.R.F.A. Events Calendar below for this month's member birthday notices, holidays and events.
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NEW EVENT!
HRFA Panfish Derby
October 7 to 28, 2023
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There will be 4 Leaderboards! Cash and other prizes awarded to the following:
- Lunker Crappie
- Lunker Perch
- Lunker Sunfish
- Panfish Bag (sum of largest Crappie, Perch and Sunfish combined)
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Ticket sales start
9/21/2023, 8:30 AM EDT
Ticket sales end
10/14/2023, 3:00 PM EDT
Tournament start
10/7/2023, 12:01 AM EDT
Tournament end
10/28/2023, 3:00 PM EDT
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Got questions? Contact Derby Organizer Alex Spindleman at a.spindelman@gmail.com. |
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General Meeting. Speaker Michael Sardinas.
October 10, 2023
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Come learn what's in Michaels surf bag for the fall run of bass and blues. Are you ready? |
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HRFA Invitational at Island Beach State Park
October 14, 2023
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Fishing starts at 8 AM
Fishing ends at 11 AM
BBQ to follow.
Award Ceremony at 12 PM
This is a FREE event for members of the HRFA and the NJBBA. Entry fee of $25 for non-members will cover cost of food & prizes. Plus support the efforts of both clubs. Pay by check or cash at the beach.
Registration at IBSP is from 7AM - 8AM. You can start fishing in the as soon as you register. Of course, if you register ahead of time, you can start fishing at 7AM - but NOT sooner. Fishing ends at 11 AM. BBQ to follow. Awards Ceremony starts at 12 PM.
The angler with the largest fish in length wins the trophy and their club's name will be added to the plaque.
Which club will win? Which lucky angler will take home the trophy? Got questions? Contact Joe Albanese Email: president@thehrfa.org Mobile: (908) 456-2968
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This will also be the NJBBA's volunteer appreciation day event.
Governor Murphy has made entry to NJ's state parks free of charge. Stop at the gate then meet up on the beach at Fishermen's Walkway. Click HERE to open the park map.
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THE HRFA's 3rd Annual Bass & Blues Surfcasting Derby
November 11, 2023
Gateway National Park at Sandy Hook, NJ
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All members & their guests are invited to
join the HRFA's Surfcasting Derby.
Entry Fee: $25.00 donation
Will accept cash or check
in person at the beach.
Meet up: 6:00 AM in Parking Lot B
Awards: 11:20 AM in Parking Lot B
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Striped Bass Prizes
1st Place -- $100 value
2nd place –$50 value
3rd place – $25 value
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Bluefish Prizes
1st Place – $75 value + Trophy
2nd place – $50 value
3rd place – $25 value
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The Rules:
The photograph of your catch must have the ruler below the fish with no portion of the ruler
covered by the fish or anything else. Entries with fish covering rulers will not be accepted.
The largest fish in length wins in each category – Striped Bass and Bluefish
A photograph of your catch is to be submitted by text to 201-232-5988
Please include your first and last name in the text
Time of entry will break any ties.
Shore/wade fishing only. No boats
The boundaries are anywhere on Sandy Hook
REMEMBER, if fishing with bait, you MUST use a circle hook
If you have any questions or need help with selecting the right gear for the derby, contact
Michael Sardinas:
Email: Masardinas@yahoo.com
Phone: +1 (201) 232-5988
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HRFA General Meeting.
November 14, 2023
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Dennis Kuntz of 2nd Chance Tackle. Bring in your old, worn out, and tired reels needing rejuvenation. Dennis pledges a donation to the HRFA for every reel he services.
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THE HRFA's Fishing Gear Green Market
December 12, 2023
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Sell/buy new/used fishing gear. Vendors welcome. Your donation supports the mission and activities of the HRFA. We thank you for your support.
There is space for 20 tables. Two tables are already reserved:
- Dennis Kuntz - fishing reels
- Don Marantz - fishing gear
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Liberty State Park Revitalization Event
October 18, 2023
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Liberty State Park Revitalization Overview
"Thank you Commissioner LaTourette & Governor Murphy. However . . . Why is there no mention of creating opportunities or space for recreational fishing. " - Editor River Views
Read more
www.youtube.com
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HomePage_FOLSP
The Friends of Liberty State Park is an all-volunteer, non-profit, 501(c) (3) organization that is dedicated to preserving, protecting, conserving and promoting Liberty State Park, the inspiring urban state park on the Jersey City waterfront...
Read more
www.folsp.org
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Mr. Poseidon's Montauk Challenge
October 19-21, 2023
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Mr Poseidon's 3rd Annual Montauk 3-Day Striper Challenge ...
Eventbrite - Mr Poseidon presents Mr Poseidon's 3rd Annual Montauk 3-Day Striper Challenge OCT 19, 20 & 21 - at Montauk State Park -- Lower Parking Lot -- 7:00 am to 10:00 am for Check-ins (See Details in Rules & Regulations), Montauk, NY. Find...
Read more
www.eventbrite.com
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Ridgefield Park Elks Lodge
October Events
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Walk Across the Bridge
September 2, 2023
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The HRFA fully supports Bill 181 in the NJ Assembly which calls for a slowdown on offshore windmills. For a second time EBoard members, Arnie Ulrich and Joe Albanese, participated in an organized walk with groups and politicians opposed to offshore wind. This one was across the bridge connecting Highlands to Sandy Hook. We believe it is critically important to educate the public to what is going on to spread awareness. Too many just don't have a clue because so much seems to be either disinformation or shrouded in secrecy. We encourage others to just say "NO" to offshore wind. Hopefully, it is not too late. |
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HRFA's Membership Chair Arnie Ulrich & President Joe Albanese |
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We asked Rose Willis how she thinks offshore wind might directly impact the Hudson River. Here is her reply . . .
"The one thing that comes immediately to mind is that jet plowing of trenches, needed to lay the cables, will stir up PCBs in river sediment. The biggest short-term issue is if you have PCBs released into the entire ecosystem, anadromous species like young of year striped bass that leave the river, go out to the ocean, and then return to the river to spawn in the spring will have higher levels of PCB contamination. That’s a really bad thing, particularly for resident stripers and other species that people eat. How it would affect other organisms one can only imagine, but concentrations always increase higher up in the food chain.
It’s also unclear where the placement of OCS (Offshore Cooling Stations) will be. Offshore cooling stations, like those mentioned in Sunrise Wind's documents, take in cool ocean water to dissipate heat produced through the AC to DC conversion of electricity. Each offshore cooling station will discharge up to 8,100,000 gallons of seawater with chlorine residuals and temperatures, as per their own documents, of between 86-90 F. What happens to all the fish larvae, and microorganisms necessary to sustain life, that end up in this wash cycle?
BOEM has already admitted in their documents that these offshore wind turbines will have no effect on climate change. Ultimately, because the wind wake effect extends for up to 60 miles past a turbine zone, they will decrease the upwelling and downwelling of the ocean and thus increase sea surface temperature. Again, on a cumulative level, we believe this will warm the ocean significantly imitating what they call climate change.
I’m sure the issues we see in the ocean will have an effect on the fish that enter estuaries like the Hudson to spawn. But we can’t prove other things, as of yet not from the river. They’re playing God, changing the entire dynamics of a healthy ecosystem." - Rose Willis
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“Hudson River Day” at the Croton Yacht Club
September 9, 2023
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From L to R: CYC's Dennis Kooney (event organizer), HRFA volunteers Jeff Christie, Capt Aram Setian, Mona Mak, Joe Albanese, Gil Hawkins, Janice Soto, Ed DeLapp, Wayne Geider (Youth Program Chair) and Dave Mercer. |
I want to take this opportunity to thank the Croton Yacht Club membership, and all others, who participated in the preparation and execution of our Hudson River Day event held on Saturday, September 9th.
I would also like to thank the community for supporting this important event. In spite of the heat and humidity and a late day thunderstorm which cut the schedule short, the event was another resounding success.
The model of providing a full educational and interactive experience centering around the history and ecology of the river coupled with our partnership with the Hudson River Fishermen’s Association (HRFA) has evolved into the most unique and successful event of its kind on the river.
Thanks to the HRFA, the youth fishing contest was again a home run. Over sixty children registered and participated in the event throughout the day with a variety of fish caught. First place was awarded to John Bracciante who caught a 16” channel catfish, second place went to Liam Burns and third place to Connor Stokes. In addition to the contest winning prizes donated by the Croton Yacht Club, fishing rod and reel combinations were also awarded throughout the day to other participants as door prizes. The happiness and excitement of those receiving awards were dwarfed by those children who caught the first fish of their lifetime.
The food was outstanding, the snow cones refreshing and the chowder pot was drained to the last drop. Special thanks to representatives from the Riverkeeper, Clearwater, the Croton Historical Society, Village of Croton Police Department, Ferry Sloops, the Hudson River Boat and Yacht Club organization, the Hudson Valley Stream Conservancy, the Croton 125 committee, the Croton Point Nature Center, Brigid Faranda, Mario Giacalone, the Croton River Artisans and again the Hudson River Fishermen’s Association for their participation and for their engaging and educational exhibits.
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Chris Letts, renowned naturalist, once again captivated the audience at the “touching table” where the children could see, touch and smell some of the river’s two hundred thirty-seven different fish species. Our viewing tanks provided a unique look into the underwater world of the river.
Thank you to Croton Police Department Officers who exhibited the Village Police Boat and provided boat rides and also to members of “Ferry Sloops” for providing a free sailing experience enjoyed by all.
As Croton Yacht Club members, we take pride in providing this experience to the community. As parents and grandparents, we take comfort in knowing our children and grandchildren are being afforded an opportunity to make a life changing connection to the river we all love.
Sincerely,
Dennis Kooney
Croton Yacht Club, Inc.
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General Meeting
September 12, 2023
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Muskie Mania Made Manageable
By Carl Bruger
The September general meeting of the Hudson River Fishermen’s Association was highlighted by the presentation of our guest speaker, Dave Vollenweider, who effectively spoke in front of his 51 inch replica mount of the original monster taken from Monksville Reservoir. He showed the color variations in his fish photo presentation that ranged from clear to barred to spotted and tiger, from the muskie / pike hybrid so popular in many waters.
Pike and muskie can be identified by gill plate scale patterns where the pike’s scales are like an upside down “L” and the muskie just has scales on the top of the gill plate. Both fish and their tiger mix are great to target in the October / November feeding frenzy before many impoundments freeze over or get so cold that the chilly waters slow the fish metabolism and diminish activity. This made the timing of our guest speaker ideal for any angler thinking of giving it a try. Winter angling through the ice nevertheless can also be productive with a 42lb. 13oz. record NJ whopper hauled through a widened ice hole.
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An 8 1/2 to 9 foot rod was recommended with mainline being 65 pound test SPIDERWIRE or TUF-LINE. Wire leader is useful thanks to the toothy maw of the quarry. Options include piano wire, seven strand or Monel. Super heavy duty fluorocarbon is your most invisible offering connected to the business end. Trolling is often a way to connect as long as you can keep your lure above the ubiquitous weeds that usually harbor your quarry. Match up with a top quality trolling reel. If you go with a spinning rod to cast lures and baits be sure it has the best quality drag system to absorb the powerful ripping runs that follow the strike. If you don’t use live suckers or other big live baits then wood, plastic, feather or rubber imitations are going to give you a chance to illicit a strike. You have incredible multifaceted options including various jigs, spinners, spoons, jerk baits, glide baits, crank baits, and hybrids of hard bodies with soft plastic tails. My own Dad taught me a trick years ago that Dave reiterated with visible video backup. Always make a figure eight or at least a wide circle with your lure at the end of the retrieve to trigger strikes right at boat side! This pike family stunt has garnered this scribe dozens of pickerel and pike, but that monster muskie remains elusive. If fish up to 12 |
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pounds made my adrenaline pump in the past I can only imagine what a five foot beast shooting from under the boat would do to my heart.
If you have a yen to pursue these awesome fish you can get off to a great start by satisfying your specific needs in the catalog put out called Rollie and Helen’s Muskie Shop. All those lure varieties and Muskie centric gear are there to make a trophy catch possible. I hope what you learned puts you on that fish of ten thousand casts!
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XTC Sportfishing Charter
September 21, 2023
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The fluke charter was a huge success with (from L to R) Richie Wheeler, Joe Albanese, Arnie Ulrich, Wayne Geider, Jerry Crean, and Dirk van Everdingen rounding out our group.
Conditions were optimal with weather, wind, tide and fish all coming together. Dirk started the day off dropping a single peanut bunker for an immediate hook up with a short fluke just shy of 17". Jerry and Arnie led the way with nice big keepers to 25 plus inches. Joe came on strong after a slow start with Wayne and Ritchie bringing fish to the boat for the cooler.
This was probably the best fluke trip we’ve had in many years. Everyone limited out, going home with plenty of fillets and stories to tell. As always, the crew of the XTC was great. The banter on the boat was also fast and furious with lots of smiles and laughter all day.
All in all a great day on the water!
NOTE: Each of our trips aboard the XTC raises a few bucks for the HRFA. Contact Dirk if interested in going with us next time out.
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National Hunting and Fishing Day
September 23, 2023
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HRFA volunteers participated in the event organized by Stan Pascoo of the United Sportsmen's Assoc. of Rockland. This year, inclement weather forced much of the program indoors. That's where Arnie Ulrich & Joe Albanese set up a table to introduce folks to the HRFA. Outdoors, under the pavilion, Scott Havner set up his Eskimo brand shelter and taught how to practice the fine art of ice fishing. At the end of the day, two lucky youths each won the free raffle for a fish gripper & pliers set donated by Scott. |
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Here is a photo of Jaxson accepting his gift from Arnie Ulrich. |
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Bryce with his gift. Presented to him by Scott Havner. |
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Yonkers Riverfest, scheduled for the same day, was postponed for a later date (possibly canceled) due to the dangerous river conditions created by coastal storm Ophelia. |
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THE HRFA's Saltwater Fly-Fishing Derby
Sandy Hook
September 30, 2023
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Postponed! New date to be determined. |
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Carl Bruger has been a writer for this newsletter educating and entertaining us who read River Views for a long time. Here is (are) his latest gem(s). |
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Floss Your Salmon This Year
By Carl Bruger
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This title doesn’t mean to dislodge a huge salmon from your molars although the oft depicted grizzlies at Frazier Falls do just that during their fall fill-up before the long Alaskan winter. Instead the meaning of this wording was a way to describe a cast and retrieve method that will result in more mouth hook-ups than any other legal technique this angler has ever seen and tried.
First, let’s understand certain constants in the fall salmon spawning migration that are immutable laws for salmonids. Fish are going to be heading upstream at all times and even while holding and not moving forward they are facing into the swift current unless spooked. Second, all kings and Cohoes are going to be at the bottom of the water column be it one foot or six feet deep in the river, stream or creek. Third, these fish breathe through their gills with an open mouth providing oxygenated waters that allow muscles to expand and contract in all the motions endemic to swimming. Fourth, pathways taken by the majority of the spawning fish are predictable, made even better by visual confirmation of fish positioning and movement. Low cold clear waters after a recent rain are optimal conditions for flossing. Murky high water means you fish blind with lowered chances of hooking a king.
This writer has legally taken hundreds of Chinooks from local creeks and streams over the past years because I have learned the holes, cracks, crevasses, drop offs, and holding spots kings like to stage in and hold. If a target fish is not only visible but stationary for the moment, that fish is a prime target for flossing. You can achieve maximum positive results using a 1/0 Gamagatsu Octopus hook in a matching color to an egg sack mesh or one of my nurple flies. A 14 pound main line and ten pound test leader on a spinning or 8 weight fly rod will toss a single split shot three feet above the hook on the tag line connection at your swivel between the main line and fluorocarbon leader.
Let the fly or egg sack lay out in the cast above and beyond your targeted fish. Allow the line to drift down stream and take up any slack so you can see and feel the ticking in the bottom of the shot and the hook portion drifting in front of the king. At times the hook will be sucked right into the breathing fish’s mouth and even better the fish might snap in irritation at your offering. Either way the sharp hook has a great chance to bury the barb in the maw of a monster. Get ready for a fantastic fight and be sure your drag is loose enough to withstand that first scorching run! Be sure to net the fish by the head after it tires or grab it by the peduncle to unhook and release. Should the fish be foul hooked just pop it off and repeat the strategy shared above. Hickory smoked Chinooks are awesome delicacies on everything bagels with cream cheese. Next month I will again share my brining and smoking techniques. Now get up to Lake Ontario and hook into a Chinook!
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Jenkinson's ordered by state to unchain fences blocking...
The state Department of Environmental Protection sent Jenkinson's a warning letter on Monday telling it the public is allowed on its beaches.
Read more
www.nj.com
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American Littoral Society Opposes Beach Closures
As the 2023 Summer season came to a close, conflict arose again over public access to beaches at two locations in New Jersey. This is an issue on which the American Littoral Society has repeatedly...
Read more
www.littoralsociety.org
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Fishing and its health benefits: The more men go...
A recent study showed that men who enjoy fishing as a hobby may have a lower risk of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and other mental health conditions.
Read more
www.foxnews.com
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Sign the Petition
A healthy ocean is our most valuable natural resource-it is life sustaining, economically vital, and helps combat climate change. The ocean realm off New Jersey/New York is one of the most diverse in the world for marine mammals and sea turtles...
Read more
www.change.org
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A Devastating Blow to the Ocean from Offshore Wind...
The rush to develop wind energy off the nation's coast continues. Projects off NY/NJ are reaching critical review milestones while proposing...
Read more
cleanoceanaction.blogspot.com
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New Jersey’s A1047 / S987 Lake Access Bill |
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New Jersey Legislature
Directory of members of the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly, listed by district. Includes alphabetical indices by legislators' names, party and house designation, and county composition of each district
Read more
www.njleg.state.nj.us
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Atlantic Fishery Under Threat: Offshore Wind Farm...
The offshore wind industry is wiping out thousands of marine mammals and fish are its next victims. While plenty has been written about whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals being deafened by wind turbine construction activities (they don't...
Read more
stopthesethings.com
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Alternating Ocean Currents: Offshore Wind Turbines The...
Spear hundreds of 300m high wind turbines into ocean environments and it's only natural that that environment changes. Downwind air currents are cut and buffeted by the blades of turbines up wind. The phenomenon known as 'wake turbulence' reduces ...
Read more
stopthesethings.com
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From our Membership Chair |
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HRFA Members stuff
Arnie Ulrich Membership Chair
New Members this month are Michael Stella Secaucus, NJ and John Ferrara Stony Point, NY
Fight For the Hudson
DON'T Forget the FREE Annual HRFA fishing contest submit your entries and check the Leader Board below at the 2023 Leader Board down below!!
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What is HRFA Free Money? Are you a paid member.?
At every HRFA in person meeting, half of the HRFA portion of the 50/50 money goes into a virtual jar. At the end of the meeting, a paid HRFA members name is picked (from a jar of all paid HRFA members) to receive the money. The name is announced three times. If the HRFA paid member is not present, the money goes back into the jar for the next months meeting. The process continues and is repeated at the next HRFA meeting.
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HRFA Membership Information. If you dont have a 2022 or lifetime member card you are losing out on great HRFA member benifits.
Pay your dues. Get your 2023 membership card.
The generous grace period ended for renewals on March 31st. Those not renewed are on the stale list and are removed from the membership rolls. Note , If you do not have a 2023 or life time membership card , you are not a HRFA member.
For those people who join(ed) the HRFA in October (or later) of a given year, their new or renewal membership also is covered for the following new year. There is also a generous grace period (3 months) for those who are unable to update their membership in January, however paying your dues late puts a strain on the records maintenance and consequently the ability of the executive board’s planning of activities and events.
If you have any questions, suggestions, or want to help (time, skills, or financially) on any particular club projects or events, feel free to email me, Arnie Ulrich (kavester@aol.com) or call me at 1-201-304-4691.
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Calendar | Hudson River Fishermen's Association
Our calendar system is currently being developed. Please check out the most recent River Views newsletter for for our upcoming events.
Read more
thehrfa.org
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Fishing Licenses and Saltwater Registry for NJ & NY, Hudson River Regulations, etc.
Click on the buttons below for the:
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NOTE: To order your NY State Fishing License by phone call 866-933-2257 |
NOTE: To get the New York Saltwater Registry you must first register for a free Citizen Access account, then log in and Buy Sporting License(s) (the Saltwater license is free) |
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From our Environmental Chair |
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Beyond borders: Why new 'high seas' treaty is critical...
The UN's 193 Member States adopted a landmark legally binding marine biodiversity agreement on Monday following nearly two decades of fierce negotiations over forging a common wave of conservation and sustainability in the high seas beyond...
Read more
news.un.org
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“One Dam at a Time” is a short documentary by National Geographic "Ocean Hero" Jon Bowermaster highlighting Riverkeeper’s dam removal work restoring free-flowing creeks and streams in the Hudson Valley.
At least 1,600 dams fragment the creeks and streams of the Hudson Valley, most of them obsolete. By removing dams that no longer serve a purpose, we can reopen vital spawning grounds and allow the ecosystem to heal and flourish.
Riverkeeper’s landmark success at Wynants Kill – a dam removal project by Riverkeeper, the City of Troy, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in 2016 – was just the start. It was the first dam removed along the Hudson expressly for the passage of fish. “One Dam at a Time” follows the effort as it extended to the Quassaick Creek in Newburgh and Furnace Brook in Westchester County in 2020, and shows how these streams are being transformed.
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This Jig's a Keeper
By Lloyd Castillo
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I was cleaning out my “old” tackle and I couldn’t bring myself to toss this black/blue weedless jig that now has a rusty dull hook. I bought it at Walmart for 97 cents.
It caught my first largemouth bass on my first fishing experience on the maiden voyage of my brand new first fishing kayak four years ago.
My first cast was a giant mess, because I was trying out this newfangled thing called a baitcaster. It took me 15 minutes to untangle my new fishing line. It was pretty miserable because it was raining pretty hard.
My second cast accidentally landed on top of a bunch of lily pads. I carefully reeled in my precious lure (I owned a total of ONE jig at that time, and this was it) to try to avoid getting tangled. The big hook was completely exposed to the vegetation. At the time, I didn’t know that I was supposed to install a plastic creature bait called a trailer. What the heck did I know? I am a noob at this. All I cared about at the moment was to not lose my lure in all the greenery that I threw it into.
The jig finally made it into some open water and I could finally put some effort into getting it back so I could throw it into less weeds.
When it was about five feet from the kayak, I noticed a fish was slowly following it. At three feet it was still following. So I twitched the rod tip a little to the left and the dang thing took a giant gulp of the jig. I swung the rod as hard as I could (almost dislocated my already loose shoulder joint.)
A 22 inch, 6 pound 12 oz largemouth bass ended up on the deck of my new kayak. She is a personal best that I’ve not beaten to this day and may not in long time.
I’ll probably put this 97 cent jig in a framed box.
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Become a committee member for one our more our Special Projects. We now have three (3) big ticket ($$$) projects. The first two have been discussed for years already and we hope to make some headway on each in the coming years. To offer your time and talents contact Dan Harrison at dharrison@cdtresources.com. Here are the BIG three: |
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If we build it they will come!
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Dan Harrison proposed, and the Board approved, a $2,500 contribution to kick-start a special project to build a fishing pier in the Oradell Reservoir across the street from “Spectrum for Living” located in Closter, NJ. The long-term benefits will include support for outdoor activities, including fishing, for the residents and local community. To learn more about this wonderful organization click on their logo.
To offer your time and talents contact Dan Harrison at dharrison@cdtresources.com.
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SUBJECT: Update for Spectrum Pier DATE: May 25, 2023
Some things never move as fast as you like. Good news here is that it may not be moving as fast as I would like BUT it is moving. By moving I mean getting the right people involved to get this project going. We are now in talks with two NJ Senators, one with a R and one with a D after their name. The hope is that they can work together for people in the state that could care less about the R And D. They are the clients at Spectrum for Living.
We now have a special bank account that was set up exclusively for this project. We can now start taking donations for this project. Please see our website to click on the donate button. Or send a check to the HRFA Spectrum pier project PO box 421 Cresskill NJ 07626.
We have some fund-raising events planned. Just to mention a few:
· A wine tasting event at make wine with us in Wallington NJ.
· Beefsteak dinner
· The Catfish Chaos on August 19.
I can not stress enough how much this project would help better the lives of the clients at Spectrum for Living.
Thanks,
Dan H
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Save our Historical Heritage |
Due to the restrictions imposed on our lives by the COVID 19 pandemic our plans are on hold. We hope and pray that one day volunteers may start working to refurbish Riverkeeper to her former days of glory when she was the world's first and only riverkeeper vessel.
To offer your time and talents, or make a donation, contact Dan Harrison at dharrison@cdtresources.com.
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To build a permanent home and museum in the Palisades Interstate Park at Bloomers Beach.
To offer your time and talents, or make a donation, contact Dan Harrison at dharrison@cdtresources.com.
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Follow the HRFA on Social Media |
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Submit fishing photos & news of interest to Alex Spindelman.
a.spindelman@gmail.com
You can also tag us in your posts @thehrfa.org
Click on the logos below to visit our FaceBook and Instagram pages.
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Over the Labor Day weekend Scott Havner trailered his boat to the Salmon River where he caught this impressive 15-16 lb. salmon. |
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Linda Havner with a pretty darn good largemouth bass caught fishing Labor Day weekend. |
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Here is Don Marantz's granddaughter holding a 5 1/2 lb. lunker largemouth. That's Alastor with arms akimbo. |
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Abandoned on the Palisades: The Ruins of Cliffdale Manor
For the past couple weeks, I've been scouting the Rockland County area, and every time I drive the Palisades north... ...I notice this strange castle-like structure whiz past out my ...
Read more
www.scoutingny.com
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Bonefish & Tarpon Journal - Spring 2023
The nets are called purse seine nets, and there is nothing inherently nefarious about them. They are simply effective. Astonishingly effective.
Read more
issuu.com
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Please make your selection from the list below and make a reservation by emailing Michael Sardinas at Vicepresident@thehrfa.org If the title is available, you will receive a confirmation and book will be ready for pickup at the following General Meeting.
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TITLES CURRENTLY AVAILABLE |
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Secrets of Surf Fishing at Night by William A. Muller
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The Trophy Striper by Frank Daignault
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Croton Point Park by Scott Craven & Caroline Curvan
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The Riverkeepers by John Cronin
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Striper Surf by Frank Daignault
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20 years on the Cape by Frank Daignault
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On the Run by David DiBenedetto
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The Perfect Storm by Sebastian Junger
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101 Fish - Fly Fisher's Life List by Lefy Kreh
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Fly Fishing in Saltwater by Lefy Kreh
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Longer Fly Casting by Lefty Kreh
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Incredible Fishing Stories by Shaun Morey
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Fifty Favorite Fly-Fishing Tales by Chris Santella
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Sport Fishing - Aquatic Resources Handbook by Bob Schmidt
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Max's Magic Fly by Peter Nilse
NEW ARRIVALS!!!
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The Great East Coast Seafood Book by Yvonne Young Tarr
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New Jersey Coastwalks by D.W. Bennett
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Marine Gamefish of the Middle Atlantic by David K. Bulloch
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HRFA Youth Angler Program |
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Youth Angler Program
By Wayne Geider
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Want to volunteer?
Just call our Youth Angler Program Chair Wayne Geider at
(201) 384-8046.
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Newly redesigned HRFA baseball caps are now available. Pick one up at the next monthly meeting. Or, click on the photo to order yours today. Wear it proudly!
Other apparel with our logo are also available. Like this handsomely designed and practical UPF shirt. Wear it proudly when fishing and save a little on the sunscreen too. For members only. Ask Ivan Garcia for one.
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2023 Fishing Contest Leader Boards |
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The HRFA hosts an annual fishing contest which runs from January through December and is open to all HRFA members. You have 30 days from the day you catch a fish to send in your entries. So, the deadline for submissions is January. As a member of the HRFA you and your immediate family are eligible to enter fish in any of our categories. Various divisions are available for prizes presented at our Annual Awards Dinner in March of the following year. Website updated daily. River Views newsletter updates below are done around the first the month. * indicates a new club record.
To be posted on Instagram, photos of your catch should be emailed or texted to Alex Spindelman: (845) 548-0003, a.spindelman@gmail.com
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Striped Bass Released
Caught From Boat
(leaders determined by length)
Mike Santiago 47.5"
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Striped Bass Kept
Caught From Boat
(leaders determined by weight)
No entry.
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Striped Bass Released
Caught From Shoreline
(leaders determined by length)
Sandy Federico 42"
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Striped Bass Kept
Caught From Shoreline
(leaders determined by weight)
Carl Hartmann 12 Lbs.
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Bluefish
Mike Santiago 17.8 Lbs.
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Fluke
Edward Christensen 5 Lbs. 8 oz.
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Black Sea Bass
Carl Hartmann 2 Lbs
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Open Category
Salt Water
Jeffrey Grabovski, Tarpon 140 Lbs.
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Catfish
Carl Bruger 27 Lbs. 2 Oz.
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Carp
John Francesconi 24 Lbs. 3oz.
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Trout - Great Lakes
Stephanie Hess 12 lbs 13 oz.
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Smallmouth Bass
Linda Havner 5 Lbs. 12 Oz.
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Largemouth Bass
Joseph Duemmer 6 Lbs 7oz.
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Salmon
Carl Bruger 24 Lbs 13 oz.
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Open Category
Fresh Water
Carl Hartman - 1 Lb. Yellow Perch
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Harry Cudlin - 9 Lbs. 8 Oz. Northern Pike with grandpa Carl Bruger |
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Noah Sardinas - 30" Striped Bass from Shore and Released |
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Sarah Sardinas - 9.5" Porgy |
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Partial list of Friends & Supporters of the HRFA
(Click on any image below to visit their website.)
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