While Earl will deliver just a glancing blow to New Jersey, party boat captains expect the storm to take a bite out of the weekend fishing.

Most expect to be stuck at the dock on Friday, with Saturday’s fishing still a question.

Capt. Bob Bogan of the Gambler out of Point Pleasant said, “I think the worst day is going to be Friday, and I hope to get out Sunday and Monday.”

Capt. Bogan said the fluke fishing is usually good a day or two before a storm and slow a day or two after.

“I’m sure we’re going to lose Friday and Saturday,” said Capt. Ed Bunting of the Seahorse out of Atlantic Highlands. “It’s bad for the last weekend of the fluke season.”

The fluke season is over after Monday and he’ll be switching to porgies, sea bass and blackfish.

Capt. Mike Russo of the Sea Hawk in Perth Amboy agrees about Friday.

“Earl is going to shut us down on Friday,” he said.

What worries him is what people hear and see on television.

“They tell you how bad it is and then show you 2-foot waves. It’s not going to be as bad as they say,” he added.

Capt. Howard Bogan of the Big Jamaica, Brielle, said there are so many blues around, he doesn’t think it will affect the fishing.

“We might not be able to get out for a day or two,” he said, but he didn’t think the storm would cause any big problems.

Capt. Adam Nowalsky of the Karen Ann II recommends fishing or crabbing in the back bays until the storm blows over and he expects everyone back on the ocean by Sunday and Monday.

Capt. Sal Cursi of the Cathy Sea out of Sewaren is almost looking forward to the storm.

“The storm can only help. It’ll start the false albacore run and move the bluefish in closer,” he said.

John Oswald