Mike Lamorte

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Apr 14, 2026, 10:32 PM

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Updated

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Warm weather is bringing a wave of excitement to City Island, where fishers are gearing up for the start of striped bass season.

After months of winter chill, Tuesday’s clear skies and 80-degree temperatures set the stage for what many say are perfect fishing conditions. Boats are preparing to set sail for opening day, with anticipation building along the docks and inside local shops.

At Jack’s Bait and Tackle, a staple in the community for more than 80 years, customers packed in to stock up on bait and gear ahead of the season.

“Show ‘em the jumbo! Yeah! That’s striped bass candy!” owner Jack Decuffa shouted, pointing to bait inside the shop.

Decuffa said the excitement never gets old.

“We love to fish and we love to get people out there fishing — it’s a great hobby!” he said.

Down by the docks, party boat crews are preparing for a busy opening day, expecting more than 100 fishers ready to cast their lines in hopes of landing a big catch.

“Anywhere from 9 inches to 50 pounds,” said Alex Blair, a party boat worker, describing the range of striped bass fishers hope to reel in.

Inside the shop, one legendary catch still draws attention — a massive striped bass mounted on the wall.

“That’s the one I caught in the ’70s,” a Decuffa recalled.

But not everyone on City Island is focused on fishing. Some are simply soaking in the sunshine after a long winter.

“The sun makes you feel good, energized to do what you gotta do,” said Jackie Padmore.

Padmore said she’s using worms to attract birds to her garden, even if she’s still figuring things out.

“Honestly, I have no idea what I’m doing — but I’m hoping the birds eat the worms and stay in my garden,” she said.

Whether it’s casting lines or cultivating gardens, many on City Island are embracing the warm weather — and the fresh start that comes with a new season.