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Damn Good New Jersey Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In New Jersey

Fishing in Stone Harbor

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

New Jersey Inshore Classic

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Stone Harbor

Inshore Fishing Charter in Stone Harbor

Screaming Drag Surf Fishing

100% (2)
1 - 8 People From $350
Fishing in Highlands

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Highlands

6 Hour Trip- Striped Bass

NEW
50 ft 1 - 15 People From $1,050
Fishing in Highlands

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Highlands

10-Hour Offshore Special

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,200
Fishing in Cape May

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

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Cape May

16-Hour Canyon (Tuna/Wahoo/Mahi)

NEW
44 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,700

Top Cities in New Jersey

Most Popular Types of Trips in New Jersey

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Fishing Charters In New Jersey

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% (2)
22 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
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 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 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 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% (2)
1 - 2 People From $150
See All 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% (2)
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% (2)
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% (2)
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% (2)
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

NEW
50 ft 1 - 15 People From $1,050

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in New Jersey

What are the best fishing charters in New Jersey?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 12 trips in New Jersey, and the most popular trips in the area are New Jersey Inshore Classic guided by Frank, Screaming Drag Surf Fishing guided by Frank, and 6 hour trip- Striped Bass guided by Chad.

Our guides in New Jersey are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3311 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and 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 charters / fishing lessons in New Jersey? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in New Jersey.

What types of fishing charters are common in New Jersey?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in New Jersey as well as inshore fishing and nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in New Jersey are: 1. striped bass, 2. bluefish, 3. fluke, 4. black seabass, and 5. weakfish.

The most common fishing techniques in New Jersey are artificial lure fishing, jigging, and light tackle fishing but bottom fishing and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do New Jersey fishing charters cost?

Prices in New Jersey can range anywhere from about $380 to $2,070, but the average price for a half day trip in New Jersey is $350. The average price for a full day trip in New Jersey is $1,459.

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 fishing in New Jersey?

The most popular season for fishing in New Jersey is summer, and most anglers book their trips 21 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 fishing in New Jersey about?

Fishing in New Jersey offers a diverse range of experiences, thanks to its extensive coastline, numerous rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Along the Jersey Shore, anglers can cast lines into the Atlantic Ocean for a chance to catch a variety of saltwater species. From striped bass and bluefish to fluke and black sea bass, the coastal waters provide ample opportunities for both surf fishing from the beaches and pier fishing from the numerous boardwalks that dot the shoreline. Charter fishing trips are also popular, offering anglers the chance to venture further offshore for deep-sea species like tuna and mahi-mahi.

Inland, New Jersey boasts a network of rivers and streams that are well-stocked with trout, making it a haven for freshwater anglers. The state's Division of Fish and Wildlife regularly releases rainbow, brown, and brook trout into designated trout-stocked waters, ensuring consistent fishing opportunities throughout the spring and fall seasons. Popular trout fishing spots include the Pequest River, Musconetcong River, and the Ken Lockwood Gorge.

For those who prefer still waters, New Jersey's lakes and reservoirs offer excellent fishing for bass, perch, crappie, and more. Places like Lake Hopatcong, Greenwood Lake, and Round Valley Reservoir are renowned for their productive fisheries and scenic surroundings, attracting anglers year-round. Whether you're casting a line into the surf along the coast or enjoying the tranquility of a mountain lake, fishing in New Jersey provides a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to anglers of all interests and skill levels.

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

Fishing seasons in New Jersey are dictated by the state's diverse aquatic environments and the behaviors of its numerous fish species. Spring marks the start of the prime fishing season, as warming waters stimulate fish activity along the coast and inland waters alike. Along the Jersey Shore, anglers eagerly await the arrival of striped bass and bluefish, which migrate northward along the Atlantic coastline. The opening of fluke (summer flounder) season in May also draws anglers to the beaches, piers, and boats for their chance to hook into these prized flatfish.

As summer settles in, fishing opportunities expand across the state's freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Bass fishing reaches its peak, with largemouth and smallmouth bass becoming more active in warmer waters. Anglers target bass using a variety of techniques, from topwater lures to deep-diving crankbaits, depending on the time of day and water conditions. Additionally, summer is an excellent time for fishing for panfish like crappie, perch, and sunfish, which are plentiful in many of New Jersey's smaller lakes and ponds.

Fall brings cooler temperatures and a resurgence of fishing activity in both saltwater and freshwater environments. Along the coast, striped bass fishing reaches its peak as these fish migrate southward again. The arrival of false albacore and bonito adds to the excitement for offshore anglers seeking fast-paced action. Inland, trout fishing enjoys a revival as waters cool, with stocked rivers and streams becoming popular destinations for anglers seeking to hook into rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Fall also marks the start of the blackfish (tautog) season, which attracts anglers to wrecks and reefs off the Jersey Shore for a chance at catching these challenging and tasty bottom-dwelling fish. Overall, New Jersey's fishing seasons provide year-round excitement and a variety of opportunities for anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime in different settings throughout the state.

What types of fishing are popular in New Jersey?

Fishing in New Jersey offers a diverse range of types and techniques suited to its coastal waters, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Along the Jersey Shore, surf fishing is a popular method for targeting species like striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and black sea bass. Anglers cast baited hooks or lures into the surf from the sandy beaches or fish off piers and jetties, taking advantage of tidal movements and seasonal migrations to maximize their catch. Charter fishing trips are also common, allowing anglers to venture further offshore for deep-sea species such as tuna, mahi-mahi, and sharks.

Inland, freshwater fishing enthusiasts can explore a variety of techniques in New Jersey's rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs. Bass fishing is particularly popular, with anglers targeting largemouth and smallmouth bass using techniques like baitcasting, spinning, and fly fishing. Lakes such as Lake Hopatcong and Greenwood Lake are known for their productive bass fisheries, where anglers often use plastic worms, crankbaits, or topwater lures to entice strikes. Trout fishing is another favorite pursuit, especially in stocked streams and rivers like the Pequest River, where anglers employ fly fishing techniques to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout.

For those seeking a quieter fishing experience, New Jersey's lakes and reservoirs offer opportunities for fishing from boats or shore for a variety of species. Panfish such as crappie, perch, and sunfish are plentiful in many of the state's smaller lakes and ponds, making them ideal for families or beginners. Ice fishing in the winter months is also popular in northern parts of the state, where anglers drill holes through frozen lakes and use specialized gear to catch trout, perch, and other cold-water species. Whether you're casting from a beach, trolling from a boat, or fly fishing in a secluded stream, New Jersey provides a wealth of fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels and preferences throughout the year.

What species are popular for fishing in New Jersey?

When fishing in New Jersey, anglers have a diverse array of species to target, depending on whether they're casting lines into coastal waters or exploring inland lakes and rivers. Along the Jersey Shore, striped bass are a prized catch, particularly during their spring and fall migrations. These powerful fish are known for their spirited fights and can be caught from beaches, piers, and boats using a variety of lures and baits. Bluefish are another popular saltwater species, known for their aggressive strikes and excellent table fare, making them a favorite among surf and pier anglers alike.

Inland waters offer a wealth of freshwater species to pursue, with bass being a top target for many anglers. Largemouth bass inhabit lakes and reservoirs throughout the state, providing exciting opportunities for anglers to test their skills with techniques like topwater fishing, crankbaiting, and flipping. Smallmouth bass are also sought after in rivers like the Delaware and Raritan, where rocky structures and swift currents create ideal habitats for these feisty fighters. Trout fishing is another favorite pursuit, with stocked streams and rivers offering opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout using fly fishing and spinning techniques.

For those seeking a mix of saltwater and freshwater action, New Jersey's diverse ecosystem supports a variety of other species worth targeting. Fluke (summer flounder) are prized for their delicate flavor and challenging nature, requiring anglers to finesse baits along sandy bottoms to entice strikes. Panfish such as crappie, perch, and sunfish are abundant in many of the state's smaller lakes and ponds, providing enjoyable fishing experiences for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Whether you prefer the thrill of battling ocean predators or the tranquility of casting into a serene lake, New Jersey offers something for every angler's taste.

What are the best places to fish in New Jersey?

New Jersey offers a wealth of excellent fishing spots, catering to anglers with diverse preferences and interests. Along the Jersey Shore, the expansive beaches provide ample opportunities for surf fishing, where anglers can target striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and black sea bass depending on the season. Fishing from piers and jetties is also popular, with locations such as Barnegat Pier, Atlantic City Boardwalk, and Cape May Pier being well-known hotspots. These spots not only offer great fishing but also stunning ocean views and easy access for anglers of all skill levels.

Inland, New Jersey boasts numerous lakes and reservoirs that are renowned for their productive fisheries. Lake Hopatcong, the state's largest lake, is a prime destination for bass fishing, with plentiful largemouth and smallmouth bass to be found among its many coves and islands. Greenwood Lake, situated on the border with New York, offers another excellent bass fishery along with opportunities for walleye and panfish. Round Valley Reservoir, known for its deep, clear waters, is a favorite for trout fishing and also holds impressive populations of bass and walleye.

For those seeking freshwater streams and rivers, the Musconetcong River, Delaware River, and Raritan River provide excellent angling opportunities. These rivers are stocked with trout and offer scenic settings for fly fishing enthusiasts, with sections designated as prime trout fishing waters by the state. Whether you prefer the tranquility of a mountain lake, the excitement of surf fishing along the coast, or the challenge of navigating a river for trout or bass, New Jersey's diverse fishing destinations ensure there's something for every angler to enjoy throughout the year.

Does Wisconsin have good fishing?

New Jersey offers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience, with its extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean providing abundant saltwater fishing opportunities. Anglers flock to New Jersey's shores for a chance to catch a variety of prized species such as Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Black Sea Bass, and Tautog. From the northern beaches near Sandy Hook to the southern shores of Cape May, the state's coastal waters offer accessible fishing piers, surf fishing spots, and charter boat excursions that cater to both casual anglers and dedicated sportsmen.

In addition to its coastal waters, New Jersey boasts numerous freshwater fishing opportunities in its lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. The Delaware River, Passaic River, and Raritan River are popular among anglers for their Trout, Bass, and Catfish populations. Sprawling reservoirs like Lake Hopatcong and Round Valley Reservoir offer scenic settings for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy, with opportunities for boat fishing, shoreline casting, and ice fishing during the winter months.

New Jersey's fishing community is active and supported by a variety of resources and events. The state hosts numerous fishing tournaments and derbies throughout the year, such as the Jersey Coast Shark Anglers Mako Fever Tournament and the Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament, which attract anglers of all ages and skill levels. Local bait shops, marinas, and fishing guides provide valuable assistance and local expertise to help anglers navigate New Jersey's diverse fishing opportunities effectively. With its rich marine and freshwater ecosystems, New Jersey offers anglers a wealth of options to enjoy the thrill of fishing against the backdrop of its coastal charm and scenic landscapes.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent all around

    W.gary L. with Frank B. of Stone Harbor, New Jersey

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Frank B. of Stone Harbor, New Jersey

The Best Places to Fish in New Jersey

Top Types of Fishing in New Jersey

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