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Damn Good Inshore Fishing Charters In New Jersey

Check real-time availability and compare rates on New Jersey inshore fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Inshore Fishing Charters In New Jersey

Fishing in Stone Harbor

Inshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Screaming Drag Surf Fishing

100% (3)
1 - 8 People From $350
Fishing in Stone Harbor

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

New Jersey Inshore Classic

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Highlands

Inshore Fishing Charter in Highlands

New Jersey On Light Tackle

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Stone Harbor

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Stone Harbor Inshore/Nearshore

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Stone Harbor

Inshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Nighttime Bridge Hopping Trip

100% (3)
1 - 2 People From $150
Fishing in Old Bridge

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Old Bridge

Spring Or Fall Stripers

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $925

Top Cities for Inshore Fishing in New Jersey

Top Types of Inshore Trips in New Jersey

Top Species for Inshore Fishing in New Jersey

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Inshore Fishing Charters In New Jersey

Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
trip description for Spring or Fall Stripers in Old Bridge

This is a 7hr Striper trip. We provide all the rod, tackle and bait. All you need to bring is what ever you want to eat or drink. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Old Bridge

Spring Or Fall Stripers

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $925
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for Nighttime Bridge Hopping Trip in Stone Harbor

If you've ever wanted to hit a wide variety of East Coast sportfish species right from the bank, this trip is your ticket! Join Frank and check out bridges, sod banks, docks, and more, looking for the best spots to catch lunkers—at night! Fish behavior changes at night, when they're less wary of predators and can come out to hunt in the open. Little do they know, you'll be waiting! This trip is intended for those with some prior fishing experience. Accurate casting is important when fishing around this much man-made structure, and you'll be targeting trophy-sized fish on light tackle. You'll be chasing Bluefish, Stripers, Fluke, and Weakfish—all fun fighters that are a blast to catch! You'll be primarily throwing jigs and a variety of plastics, depending on the time of day, season, water clarity, and more. Bring your A-game, because when a big fish hits your jig, you'll feel it! Play these fighters well, and you might get a new personal best on this trip with Frank. Frank will supply all the rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is a good headlamp, proper clothing, and some bug spray. No sunscreen needed on this night trip! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Nighttime Bridge Hopping Trip

100% (3)
1 - 2 People From $150
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for Stone Harbor Inshore/Nearshore in Stone Harbor

Head out with Captain Frank for a fishing fiesta! On this trip you will be skirting around inshore and nearshore waters in search of a variety of tasty treats. Black Seabass, Spanish Mackerel, Tautog, and Bluefish are just some of the classic northeast Atlantic species you might pull up, and there's plenty more. The reefs, wrecks, and other submarine structures are teeming with life, and Captain Frank knows where to find them. Up to 6 guests can fit aboard Captain Frank's brand new state-of-the-art 22' Cape Horn center console, so bring your family and friends on this voyage. The vessel is powered by a 300hp Yamaha engine which will guide you smoothly across the inshore bays. You can bump your favorite tunes on the Bluetooth stereo system for maximum enjoyment of your day on the water. You will be using the live bait well to drop lines with baitfish. You can troll, bottom fish, or sight cast using light or heavy tackle. It all depends on what you want to catch. Captain Frank will provide all the rods, reels, live bait, and tackle necessary for a successful trip. You just need to bring snacks and drinks, as well as appropriate clothing. Also, bring a cooler to keep your catch fresh on the drive home. Sunscreen and a hat are always key to staying protected from the sun, but other than that you don't need much to have a blast! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Stone Harbor Inshore/Nearshore

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
trip description for New Jersey on Light Tackle in Highlands

If you're looking to get hooked up, big-time, in New England, this trip is meant for you! Join Captain Michael for an unforgettable inshore fishing charter in the beautiful waters between Long Island and Cape Cod. You will be fishing on a well-maintained 23' Jones Bros bay boat, purpose-built for fishing here and equipped with all the necessary gear, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, and tackle. She sports a 175-HP Yamaha engine and is capable of cruising at 40 knots, so you'll be on the fish in a snap. Captain Michael is a seasoned angler with years of experience fishing the local waters. He specializes in fly and light tackle fishing, but he's also known for his skill in trolling, jigging, spinning, popping, and deep-sea fishing. On this inshore trip, you'll have an ideal opportunity to target East Coast classics including Black Seabass, Bluefish, Stripers, and Flounder. Captain Michael will make sure you've got the perfect tackle for the job, depending on the fish and the time of year, to give you the best chance of catching the species you're after. Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-timer, Captain Michael will provide all the necessary instruction and equipment to ensure that you have a successful day on the water. He will also clean and fillet your catch at the end of the trip so you can take it home for a delicious meal. Book your trip today and let Captain Michael show you the beauty and the thrill of inshore fishing. With his knowledge and experience, you'll be sure to have a great time and make some unforgettable memories! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Highlands

New Jersey On Light Tackle

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for New Jersey Inshore Classic in Stone Harbor

This is a shorter trip for those who just want to get out and test the waters. Or for families with younger kids who want to try it out. Early season, May through the beginning of July, we stay in the back bays and chase flounder, stripers, blues, and weakies. Then, July through September we hit the reefs and other wrecks and lumps in the ocean for a variety of species. The trip is for one to six people, beginner to advanced, and children are always welcome. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

New Jersey Inshore Classic

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for Screaming Drag Surf Fishing in Stone Harbor

Get down to the beach for a perfect day of casting and catching out of Stone Harbor, NJ! This surf fishing trip is great for families! Depending on what you want to catch, you can take home lots of great eating fish, or go after bigger sharks and rays that will pull your arms out of their sockets! If you want to fish while also getting to enjoy the beach, this is the trip for you. Get out there and have some fun! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Screaming Drag Surf Fishing

100% (3)
1 - 8 People From $350
See All Inshore Trips in New Jersey

Other Trips in New Jersey

Fishing in Cape May
Fishing in Cape May
Fishing in Cape May
trip description for Mahi/Wahoo on the Troll in Cape May

Hop on board with Captain Mark for memorable day on the Atlantic! Cape May provides plenty of exciting fishing opportunites with direct access to the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. With Captain Mark you'll get to explore it all while you troll the open waters. On this 10-hour trip, Captain Mark will take you to the nearshore wrecks and reefs or up to 40 miles offshore where you’ll be fishing for exciting species such as Bigeye Tuna, Bluefin Tuna, Bonito, King Mackerel, False Albacore, Mahi Mahi, Skipjack Tuna, and Wahoo. To attract these picture-worthy fish you can use a variety of methods, although the focus of this trip is trolling. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your captain take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the sweet sea breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! You’ll be fishing aboard a 39' Downeast sportfisher that can hold up to 6 guests. Powered by a 550 HP Detroit engine, this vessel will have no problem getting you to the deep waters with plenty of time left to fish! She comes complete with GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, Outriggers, and an Ice Box to store your catches. There's even an on board bed and restroom for your comfort. Captain Mark will provide all rods, reels, tackle and live bait. All you need to bring is polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and any food or drinks you might want on the water. Book your trip today and get ready to reel in some big ones! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cape May

Mahi/Wahoo On The Troll

NEW
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,000
Fishing in Cape May
Fishing in Cape May
Fishing in Cape May
trip description for 16-Hour Canyon (Tuna/Wahoo/Mahi) in Cape May

Hop on board with Captain Mark for a fishing adventure on this exciting 16-hour offshore trip! Cape May provides plenty of exciting fishing opportunites with direct access to the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This trip is for avid anglers who are willing to go extra far to go after some serious fish! On this 16-hour trip, Captain Mark will take you between 60-70 miles from shore where you’ll be fishing along the continental shelf for prized big game species such as Bigeye Tuna, Blue Marlin, Bluefin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Swordfish, Wahoo, White Marlin, and Yellowfin Tuna. You'll be targeting these fish using methods such as light tackle, heavy tackle, artificial lures, trolling, jigging and deep dropping. The beauty of this 16-hour trip is you'll have plenty of time to test out different methods in the deep waters and on the excursions to/from the dock! You’ll be fishing aboard a 39' Downeast sportfisher that can hold up to 6 guests. Powered by a 550 HP Detroit engine, this vessel will have no problem getting you to the deep waters with plenty of time left to fish! She comes complete with GPS, Fishfinder, a Live Bait Well, Outriggers, and an Ice Box to store your catches. There's even an on board bed and restroom for your comfort. Captain Mark will provide all rods, reels, tackle and live bait. All you need to bring is polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and any food or drinks you might want on the water. Book your trip today and get ready to reel in some big ones! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Cape May

16-Hour Canyon (Tuna/Wahoo/Mahi)

NEW
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,700
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for New Jersey Inshore Classic in Stone Harbor

This is a shorter trip for those who just want to get out and test the waters. Or for families with younger kids who want to try it out. Early season, May through the beginning of July, we stay in the back bays and chase flounder, stripers, blues, and weakies. Then, July through September we hit the reefs and other wrecks and lumps in the ocean for a variety of species. The trip is for one to six people, beginner to advanced, and children are always welcome. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

New Jersey Inshore Classic

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for Stone Harbor Inshore/Nearshore in Stone Harbor

Head out with Captain Frank for a fishing fiesta! On this trip you will be skirting around inshore and nearshore waters in search of a variety of tasty treats. Black Seabass, Spanish Mackerel, Tautog, and Bluefish are just some of the classic northeast Atlantic species you might pull up, and there's plenty more. The reefs, wrecks, and other submarine structures are teeming with life, and Captain Frank knows where to find them. Up to 6 guests can fit aboard Captain Frank's brand new state-of-the-art 22' Cape Horn center console, so bring your family and friends on this voyage. The vessel is powered by a 300hp Yamaha engine which will guide you smoothly across the inshore bays. You can bump your favorite tunes on the Bluetooth stereo system for maximum enjoyment of your day on the water. You will be using the live bait well to drop lines with baitfish. You can troll, bottom fish, or sight cast using light or heavy tackle. It all depends on what you want to catch. Captain Frank will provide all the rods, reels, live bait, and tackle necessary for a successful trip. You just need to bring snacks and drinks, as well as appropriate clothing. Also, bring a cooler to keep your catch fresh on the drive home. Sunscreen and a hat are always key to staying protected from the sun, but other than that you don't need much to have a blast! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Stone Harbor Inshore/Nearshore

100% (3)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for Screaming Drag Surf Fishing in Stone Harbor

Get down to the beach for a perfect day of casting and catching out of Stone Harbor, NJ! This surf fishing trip is great for families! Depending on what you want to catch, you can take home lots of great eating fish, or go after bigger sharks and rays that will pull your arms out of their sockets! If you want to fish while also getting to enjoy the beach, this is the trip for you. Get out there and have some fun! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Screaming Drag Surf Fishing

100% (3)
1 - 8 People From $350
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
Fishing in Stone Harbor
trip description for Nighttime Bridge Hopping Trip in Stone Harbor

If you've ever wanted to hit a wide variety of East Coast sportfish species right from the bank, this trip is your ticket! Join Frank and check out bridges, sod banks, docks, and more, looking for the best spots to catch lunkers—at night! Fish behavior changes at night, when they're less wary of predators and can come out to hunt in the open. Little do they know, you'll be waiting! This trip is intended for those with some prior fishing experience. Accurate casting is important when fishing around this much man-made structure, and you'll be targeting trophy-sized fish on light tackle. You'll be chasing Bluefish, Stripers, Fluke, and Weakfish—all fun fighters that are a blast to catch! You'll be primarily throwing jigs and a variety of plastics, depending on the time of day, season, water clarity, and more. Bring your A-game, because when a big fish hits your jig, you'll feel it! Play these fighters well, and you might get a new personal best on this trip with Frank. Frank will supply all the rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is a good headlamp, proper clothing, and some bug spray. No sunscreen needed on this night trip! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Nighttime Bridge Hopping Trip

100% (3)
1 - 2 People From $150
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
trip description for New Jersey on Light Tackle in Highlands

If you're looking to get hooked up, big-time, in New England, this trip is meant for you! Join Captain Michael for an unforgettable inshore fishing charter in the beautiful waters between Long Island and Cape Cod. You will be fishing on a well-maintained 23' Jones Bros bay boat, purpose-built for fishing here and equipped with all the necessary gear, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, and tackle. She sports a 175-HP Yamaha engine and is capable of cruising at 40 knots, so you'll be on the fish in a snap. Captain Michael is a seasoned angler with years of experience fishing the local waters. He specializes in fly and light tackle fishing, but he's also known for his skill in trolling, jigging, spinning, popping, and deep-sea fishing. On this inshore trip, you'll have an ideal opportunity to target East Coast classics including Black Seabass, Bluefish, Stripers, and Flounder. Captain Michael will make sure you've got the perfect tackle for the job, depending on the fish and the time of year, to give you the best chance of catching the species you're after. Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-timer, Captain Michael will provide all the necessary instruction and equipment to ensure that you have a successful day on the water. He will also clean and fillet your catch at the end of the trip so you can take it home for a delicious meal. Book your trip today and let Captain Michael show you the beauty and the thrill of inshore fishing. With his knowledge and experience, you'll be sure to have a great time and make some unforgettable memories! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Highlands

New Jersey On Light Tackle

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
trip description for 10-Hour Offshore Special in Highlands

If you're looking to get hooked up, big-time, in New England, this trip is meant for you! Join Captain Michael for an unforgettable offshore fishing charter in the beautiful waters between Long Island and Cape Cod. You will be fishing on a well-maintained 23' Jones Bros bay boat, purpose-built for fishing here and equipped with all the necessary gear, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, and tackle. She sports a 175-HP Yamaha engine and is capable of cruising at 40 knots, so you'll be on the fish in a snap. Captain Michael is a seasoned angler with years of experience fishing the local waters. He specializes in fly and light tackle fishing, but he's also known for his skill in trolling, jigging, spinning, popping, and deep-sea fishing. On this offshore trip, you'll have an ideal opportunity to target East Coast sportfish such as Bluefin Tuna, Bonito, and Mahi. Captain Michael will make sure you've got the perfect tackle for the job, depending on the fish and the time of year, to give you the best chance of catching the big ones you're after. Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-timer, Captain Michael will provide all the necessary instruction and equipment to ensure that you have a successful day on the water. He will also clean and fillet your catch at the end of the trip so you can take it home for a delicious meal. Book your trip today and let Captain Michael show you the beauty and the thrill of inshore fishing. With his knowledge and experience, you'll be sure to have a great time and make some unforgettable memories! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Highlands

10-Hour Offshore Special

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,200
Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
trip description for Spring or Fall Stripers in Old Bridge

This is a 7hr Striper trip. We provide all the rod, tackle and bait. All you need to bring is what ever you want to eat or drink. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Old Bridge

Spring Or Fall Stripers

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $925
Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
trip description for Tautog Wreck Trip in Old Bridge

This is a 8 hr wreck trip for blackfish, we provide all the rods, tackle and bait. All you need to bring is what ever you want to eat and drink. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Old Bridge

Tautog Wreck Trip

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,050
Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
Fishing in Old Bridge
trip description for Fluke, Sea Bass, Porgies or Ling in Old Bridge

This is a 8 hr trip for in season species. We provide all the rods, tackle and bait. All you need to bring is your own food or drink. Read More

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Old Bridge

Fluke, Sea Bass, Porgies Or Ling

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,050
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
Fishing in Highlands
trip description for 6 hour trip- Striped Bass in Highlands

Striped bass fishing will be a 6-hour trip from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Highlands

6 Hour Trip- Striped Bass

100% (1)
50 ft 1 - 15 People From $1,050

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a New Jersey inshore fishing charter

What are the best inshore fishing charters in New Jersey?

The best inshore fishing charters in New Jersey are:

Why should I book an inshore fishing charter in New Jersey with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 8 inshore trips in New Jersey, and the most popular trips in the area are Screaming Drag Surf Fishing guided by Frank, New Jersey on Light Tackle guided by Michael, and New Jersey Inshore Classic guided by Frank.

Our guides in New Jersey are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3484 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly inshore guides / fishing lessons in New Jersey? Check out our beginner and family friendly inshore guides in New Jersey.

What types of inshore fishing charters are common in New Jersey?

The most commonly sought after species for inshore fishing are: 1. striped bass, 2. bluefish, 3. fluke, 4. weakfish, and 5. black seabass.

The most common fishing techniques in New Jersey are jigging, bottom fishing, and artificial lure fishing but drift fishing and sight casting are popular as well.

How much do New Jersey inshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for inshore fishing in New Jersey can range anywhere from about $300 to $1,050, but the average price for a half day trip for inshore fishing in New Jersey is $350. The average price for a full day trip for inshore fishing in New Jersey is $821.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for inshore fishing in New Jersey?

The most popular season for inshore fishing in New Jersey is summer, and most anglers book their trips 19 days in advance.

Do I need a New Jersey fishing license and what are the bag limits in New Jersey?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in New Jersey, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in New Jersey. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in New Jersey.

What is inshore fishing in New Jersey all about?

Inshore fishing in New Jersey offers anglers a rich tapestry of opportunities along its diverse coastline, from the sandy shores of its famous beaches to the bustling bays and estuaries. Anglers can target a wide variety of species depending on the season and location, making it a popular destination for both recreational and competitive fishing. One of the highlights of inshore fishing in New Jersey is its vibrant striped bass fishery. These prized gamefish migrate along the coast in spring and fall, offering thrilling opportunities for anglers to hook into trophy-sized fish using techniques such as trolling with plugs or spoons, casting with topwater lures, or fishing with live bait like bunker or eels.

Fluke (summer flounder) is another prized catch for inshore anglers in New Jersey, particularly during the summer months. These flatfish inhabit sandy bottoms near channels, wrecks, and other underwater structures, making them accessible targets for anglers using techniques like drifting with squid or minnows on bucktail jigs or bottom rigs. Fluke are known for their tasty white meat and provide exciting action for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Regulations often dictate the size and bag limits for fluke, ensuring sustainable fishing practices.

In addition to striped bass and fluke, New Jersey's inshore waters offer opportunities to target a variety of other species such as bluefish, weakfish (sea trout), black sea bass, and tautog (blackfish) throughout the year. Each species has its own preferred habitat and feeding habits, requiring anglers to adapt their techniques accordingly. Whether fishing from shore, piers, or boats, New Jersey's inshore fishing scene promises memorable experiences and the chance to reel in a diverse array of sought-after catches against the backdrop of its scenic coastal landscapes.

What are the most popular months to go inshore fishing in New Jersey?

Inshore fishing seasons in New Jersey are marked by the changing patterns of fish migrations and environmental conditions along its Atlantic coastline. The fishing year typically begins in spring when warmer waters trigger the arrival of migratory fish like striped bass and winter flounder. This season is particularly popular for striped bass, which move northward along the coast to spawn in rivers and estuaries. Anglers often use a variety of techniques such as trolling with bunker spoons, casting with topwater plugs, or drifting live bait to entice these powerful gamefish.

As summer progresses, New Jersey's inshore waters come alive with a diverse array of species. Fluke (summer flounder) fishing peaks during this time, drawing anglers to sandy bottoms near channels and wrecks where these flatfish congregate. Techniques such as drifting with squid strips or bucktail jigs, or using bottom rigs baited with minnows, are common methods to target fluke. Bluefish also become more abundant along the coast, providing thrilling action for anglers using lures or bait rigs to catch these aggressive predators.

Fall brings its own set of opportunities for inshore anglers in New Jersey, with the return of striped bass and other migratory species heading southward for winter. This season offers a continuation of striped bass fishing as these fish feed voraciously to build up energy for their journey. Black sea bass and tautog (blackfish) fishing also become more prominent around offshore wrecks and artificial reefs, with anglers using jigs, bait rigs, or bottom fishing setups to target these bottom-dwelling species. Fall fishing in New Jersey is characterized by cooler temperatures and occasional storms, requiring anglers to adapt their strategies while enjoying the abundance of fish along the state's vibrant coastline.

What techniques are popular for inshore fishing in New Jersey?

Inshore fishing in New Jersey offers a variety of types and techniques tailored to its diverse coastal environments and the behavior of different fish species. One popular method is surf fishing, where anglers cast from sandy beaches or rocky shores to target species like striped bass, bluefish, and fluke. This approach requires specialized surf rods, sturdy reels, and a good understanding of tidal movements and beach conditions. Anglers often use bait rigs, artificial lures such as plugs or spoons, or fresh bait like clams and squid to entice fish within casting range of the shoreline.

Another favored technique in New Jersey's inshore waters is bottom fishing around artificial reefs, wrecks, and rocky structures. Species like black sea bass, tautog (blackfish), and winter flounder are commonly targeted using bottom rigs baited with clams, squid, or shrimp. Anglers may also employ jigging techniques with bucktail jigs or soft plastics to tempt these bottom-dwelling fish. Bottom fishing requires patience and precise positioning of baits or lures to attract fish holding near the structure.

For those seeking a more mobile approach, kayak fishing has gained popularity along New Jersey's coastal bays, estuaries, and inlets. Kayaks offer anglers a quiet and environmentally friendly means to access shallow waters and navigate around marshes and oyster beds where larger boats cannot venture. Anglers typically use light to medium tackle with artificial lures, live bait rigs, or fly fishing techniques to target species like striped bass, weakfish, and fluke. Kayak fishing not only provides a closer connection to the water and natural surroundings but also enhances the challenge of catching fish in New Jersey's dynamic inshore habitats.

What species are popular for inshore fishing in New Jersey?

Inshore fishing in New Jersey offers anglers a diverse range of species to target throughout the seasons, making it a popular destination for both recreational and competitive anglers alike. One of the most coveted catches is the striped bass, particularly during its migratory periods in spring and fall. Anglers pursue striped bass using techniques such as trolling with bunker spoons or casting with topwater plugs near river mouths, bridges, and jetties. These powerful fish provide thrilling battles and are known for their aggressive strikes, making them a prized catch along New Jersey's coastline.

During the summer months, fluke (summer flounder) fishing takes center stage in New Jersey's inshore waters. Fluke are found in sandy areas near channels, wrecks, and other underwater structures, where anglers target them using drift fishing with squid strips or bucktail jigs, as well as bottom rigs baited with minnows or squid. Fluke are renowned for their delicious white meat and provide exciting action for anglers of all skill levels, often requiring patience and skill to hook and land these flatfish.

In addition to striped bass and fluke, New Jersey's inshore waters offer opportunities to catch a variety of other species such as bluefish, weakfish (sea trout), black sea bass, and tautog (blackfish) throughout the year. Each species has its own preferred habitats and feeding behaviors, requiring anglers to adapt their techniques and strategies accordingly. Whether fishing from shore, piers, or boats, New Jersey's inshore fishing scene promises memorable experiences and the chance to reel in a diverse array of sought-after catches against the backdrop of its scenic coastal landscapes.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Great Surf fishing morning with Frank Learned alot and had an amazing time snagging lots of different sea life Very experienced quide with great fishing stories and pictures! Will definitely request Frank again and again Bill Richards

    Bill R. | July 29, 2024

    Trip: Screaming Drag Surf Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent all around

    W.gary L. | August 31, 2022

    Trip: Stone Harbor Inshore/Nearshore

  • ★★★★★
    Frank clearly knows these waterways and is a true master of Stone Harbor / Cape May. He took us to 7 spots in 4 hours to find the fish and even stayed out with us longer than the original length of the trip. It also seems like he really cares about his customers and was great with the more green members of our group. Would easily book another trip next time we're in the area. --Attison with Captain Experiences

    Attison B. | June 7, 2022

    Trip: Stone Harbor Inshore/Nearshore

The Best Places to Fish in New Jersey

Other Types of Fishing in New Jersey

How are fishing conditions in New Jersey?

View New Jersey Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Inshore Trips in New Jersey