Fishing The Race

by L.A. DiNardi

When in eastern Long Island Sound, anyone who hears the words The Race knows it isn’t a competition, or a marathon. There is only one, with a capital T and a capital R. Quite simply, The Race is a heart pumping, tide ripping channel of water found between Fishers Island and Little Gull Island. It is about a four mile stretch in which a whole lot of water has no where to go but funnel through the channel, creating a wild, rough, ragged, churning tidal current that thrills every fisherman.

But what really makes this place a magnet for fishermen, is being able to fish anytime of day. Most good fishing happens at dawn and early morning, or dusk into early evening, when the water isn’t as hot and the fish rise to the surface in search of food. Because of the strong currents, the tide flowing into a relatively small space, and the choppy water, The Race is the ideal location for a high concentration of fish.

The contour of The Race is unique, especially for such a small area. Loaded with reef, canyons, and under water mountains, the depth can change from 20 feet to 85 deep in a short distance, with depths reaching 250-300 feet on the north and south side of the channel. Again, adding to the boat rocking experience, with full wind exposure makes for a crazy trip!

One thing to remember about fishing in The Race, make sure your lines are minimum of 30-50lb test. The strong currents play a huge factor in landing a fish on your boat, requiring a stronger line. On weekends and holidays, you will find the place packed with other boats, making it easy to figure out “where the fish are biting.”

So get your pals, your boat and your gear and head to The Race for a wild and exciting day of fishing!