10/01/2026
We caught up with Capt. Chris Malgee of Capt. Chris Malgee to talk fall fishing in the area. See our convo with him below to find out what he’s throwing and how he’s targeting fish this fall!
Q: What’s an essential rod and reel setup for fall fly fishing?
A: A 7 or 8 weight rod and reel is a great all around for this area in the fall. I prefer TFO, as they’re great sticks at a very reasonable price.
Q: What bait, lures, or fly colors do you like to throw in the fall?
A: In the fall, our shrimp are bigger and gather together before using the tides to head out to overwinter. They’re vulnerable and schooled, and the redfish, trout, and rockfish will key in on them. So if I’m throwing flies, they’re usually shrimp patterns, like an EP Spawning Shrimp, or flies that swim similarly to shrimp, such as a Clouser minnow. For lures, a Gulp shrimp on a jighead is tough to beat… as are the Zman patterns. For some reason, certainly not the realistic looking colors of soft plastics, DOA shrimp are very effective, and are probably the best for sight casting. Earlier in the fall I like black and purple, but as the water clears up, I switch to more natural colors. Later in the fall when the water is really clear, and they’re moving from broken shell, or sand, or grass over to the mud, I’m actually trying to match the bottom, or even use “clear” lures. That DOA that’s clear with red flakes slays. So does B**r Run for Zman.
Q: What tactics or things should you note as the water gets colder?
A: Later in the fall, we’re going for subtlety, so ditch the paddle tail and try the jerk shadZ. You also open up the chance for trout to rush in!
Q: What’s the best part for you about our fall fishery, nothing against our summer fishery but how’s it differ?
A: We have a combination of great water temperatures for shallow water action, more clarity in the water, and fish aggressively eating before fattening up. If you want to catch a slam of reds, trout, and stripers - fall is hands down the time to do it.
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For more info on the gear mentioned & to see more of what’s on offer at Oceans East, check out our online store or come to a location & talk with our staff about your next trip! 🎣
