Exploring Fire Island Reef: A Diver & Angler’s Paradise

Exploring Fire Island Reef: A Diver & Angler’s Paradise 🌊🐟

Just 2 nautical miles south of Fire Island Lighthouse, the Fire Island Reef spans 850 acres of diverse underwater structures at coordinates 40°36.100′ N, 73°13.500′ W. This artificial reef, featuring vessels, barges, pontoons, drydocks, and even parts of the Tappan Zee Bridge, offers an ideal habitat for marine life.

Key Structures:

Ocean Prince Drydock #4: A 200-ft steel drydock from 1986 (40°35.704′ N, 73°11.968′ W).

DS-24 Barge: 100-ft steel barge sunk in 2018 (40°35.838′ N, 73°12.015′ W).

The Big Time: A 55-ft vessel added in 2021.

These structures create shelters and feeding grounds for a vibrant array of species.

Prime Fishing Seasons:

Spring (May-June): Sea bass, porgies, ling, blackfish, and codfish thrive here. Try a hi-lo rig with skimmer clams or squid.

Summer: Sea bass and porgies stay active, with large fluke around wrecks. Whole squid or smelt work well.
Fall: Sea bass, porgies, striped bass, and blues fill the reef. Use live porgies for stripers on a 7/0 hook with an egg sinker.

Late Fall/Winter: Blackfish (tautog) arrive by Halloween. Green or hermit crabs make excellent bait for these challenging catches.

Gear Tips: 🎣
Use a rod rated for 15-30 lb. test, paired with 30 lb. braid for sensitivity. For stripers, 25 lb. monofilament helps avoid pulled hooks when live-lining. A light egg sinker helps keep bait snag-free on the structures.

Noteworthy Points:

Zeeliner: A 63-ft WWII patrol boat (1985).
Alec N: A 45-ft clam dredge (1999).
Courtesan: A 34-ft sailboat (1998).

The Fire Island Reef promises unforgettable fishing and diving experiences year-round, rich in New York’s coastal marine life. 🐠🌅