Most guys are starting to put the boats away when I am just getting geared up! The CBBT is my first target when the big fish start to show. I hook the larger fish first around the rocks on the islands, then find them trolling between the bridges. I try to keep fishing until the ramps ice over. The ramp at Rudee stays pretty clear and I've broken thin rime ice on the way out of Owl Creek many times. The ocean front is a great area for cruising during the ocean season (Jan-Feb). Winds from any direction except N through SE are blocked by the land mass, making for good fishing conditions on all but the windiest days. Cape Henry can become a washing machine so I generally run out of Rudee anytime after New Year's.
Porkchunker, I'll be looking for you down there. Was that you I sent info to? Anyone else up for a Classic Parker "hog" striper regatta? Late November should be a good opportunity to get into some early fish coming down the coast, especially if the weather turns cold and STAYS that way.
I usually see three or four other folks with Parkers out of Lynnhaven or Little Creek. I don't talk much on the VHF, mainly because I don't know anyone down there, but I also don't like to get caught up in the trash talk that is so prevalent. I like to fish, not spend my time seeing who can be the most offensive on the airwaves.
Generally the winter season has mostly hardcore, respectful fishermen on the water. I stay away from the Oregon Inlet crowd and the peak times at the Rudee ramp, specifically to avoid the craziness and helter-skelter. I make mistakes when I'm rushed when launching and retrieving. A few extra minutes of thorough attention keeps my hull virtually scratch free. I can launch in three and retrieve in about seven. Most of the guys around are patient and polite, but there are a few that don't care - they are the ones that have beaten their boats to a pulp, and are usually screaming at a buddy or spouse.
Where did all of this come from? I am looking forward to another season of fish worship and relish the pull of that first 40+ inch striper. WOOHOO!