ESPN Saltwater

MONTAUK, N.Y. — Tucked away behind the glitz and glamour of the Hamptons is picturesque Montauk. Integrated into East Hampton, the hamlet offers world-class saltwater fishing, beautiful scenery and an abundance of historic landmarks and is bursting with solid entertainment opportunities.

Its identity should be clear. But, it's a town that is at odds with itself. It boasts expensive real estate, stretches of beach and ridiculous — yet stunning — yachts. But the people here want you to think of the area as a budget-type town and some go to great lengths to distance themselves from the Hamptons feel.

In fact, you get the distinct feeling that you aren't in the Hamptons anymore. The quaint charm of the shops, restaurants (the food is still grossly overpriced), hotels and residents only add to the idea. It's like the preppy rich kid who eschews expensive clothing to show his peers he is one of the gang.

Considering the efforts for a distinct identity, Montauk is appropriately positioned at the end of Long Island and houses a small population of more than 3,500. To further its working town reputation, its strategic location has made it home to an Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force base. But, no doubt, Montauk's bread and butter is fishing.

It is said to be home to the largest commercial and recreational fishing fleet in New York. Additionally, some claim that the area holds more saltwater fishing world records than any other port in the world. Part of the fishing phenomenon includes an abundance of surf fishing.

This week at the F.C.A Montauk Redbone, part of the ESPN Outdoors Saltwater Series presented by TakeMeFishing.org, competitors were amazed with the surfcasting ability of some anglers. The length and accuracy allowed some surfcasters to almost hit competitor's boats thought to be a safe distance.

Montauk also introduced visitors to the world of "monster fishing" or shark fishing. Frank Mundus, thought to be the inspiration for the character Quint in Jaws, used Montauk to launch his legendary shark fishing charters.

From a historical perspective, The Montauk Point Lighthouse was the first lighthouse in New York and is the fourth oldest active lighthouse in the United States. Then-president George Washington authorized the construction, which was completed in 1796.

Even though it must contend with other Hamptons, Montauk remains a major tourist destination. It boasts six state parks, which offer a wide variety of activities. And for those interested in cattle (there are some), the Deep Hollow Ranch is the oldest cattle ranch in the United States.

Hell, Even Bernie Madoff settled on Montauk when establishing a vacation residence. While no one should emulate Madoff's behavior, it's important to note that the man had unlimited resources and still chose Montauk. Nostalgically praised by Billy Joel — Paul Simon calls Montauk home — and the feature of a Sports Illustrated swimsuit pictorial as well as a Playboy Magazine shoot, I find myself wanting to come back.

Montauk calls itself "The Living End" or "The Last Resort" and with good reason. Driving in, you get the feel that a wrong turn will put you right into the water. But listening to the peaceful breeze, taking in the beautiful scenery and dreaming of the wonderful fishing, it wouldn't be the worst way to go.