During spring in Westhampton, it seems like everyone is dying for the summer to arrive, but certain kids in WHB are taking advantage of the spring weather and having the time of their lives.
Springtime on Long Island is what fishermen wait for all winter long. The warmer weather brings many fish to shallow water to feed, creating the dream scenario for fishing. The waters are especially active when it comes to bass. Striped bass are being caught regularly at many different spots in the local bays.
Many WHBHS students have taken these conditions to their advantage and use it as a great pastime. Kids gather with their friends after school each night at local docks and bridges to try and score fish. Local fisherman and WHB junior Alex Rose says he loves “the peace and quiet” of fishing but also loves “the thrill and excitement of catching a fish.”
Alex has already caught around 40 fish this season including mainly bluefish and bass. The bass have been super fun for him to catch as they sometimes range from 30-35 inches. His favorite spots have been the Black Flags in Moriches, Quogue Bridge, Moriches Inlet and Moriches Wreck.
Although there are many great fishermen in WHB, even Alex agrees there is one superior to all the others. It is the one and only Adrian Vuik. Adrian has been fishing his whole life and has become a master of the sport, some people even refer to him as the “Captain.”
Adrian loves fishing with all his friends but enjoys fishing the most with his mentor “the great Joseph Laface aka Jodeene.” Adrian has been fishing with Jodeene for years now and has practically become his first mate. Jodeene has taught him many lessons that created the great fisher he is today.
Adrian has spent his spring all around Shinnecock Bay catching plenty of fish almost every day. Although it is his skills and patience that does most of the work, he still gives credit to his go to lure the “white Ron Z.” Its white coloring and size attracts all kinds of fish, making it the perfect lure for spring fishing in the Hamptons.
Fishing is an important part of the culture of the WHB community and every cast keeps the tradition alive.
