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Damn Good Nearshore Fishing Charters In New Jersey

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

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Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters In New Jersey

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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Highlands

6 Hour Trip- Striped Bass

100% (1)
50 ft 1 - 15 People From $1,050
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
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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 Old Bridge

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

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Old Bridge

Fluke, Sea Bass, Porgies Or Ling

NEW
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,050

Top Cities for Nearshore Fishing in New Jersey

Top Types of Nearshore Trips in New Jersey

Top Species for Nearshore 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.”

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More Nearshore Fishing Charters In New Jersey

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
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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 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 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
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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
See All Nearshore 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
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
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

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Everything to Know About Booking a New Jersey nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in New Jersey?

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 7 nearshore trips in New Jersey, and the most popular trips in the area are New Jersey Inshore Classic guided by Frank, 6 hour trip- Striped Bass guided by Chad, and Mahi/Wahoo on the Troll guided by Mark.

Our guides in New Jersey are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3488 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 nearshore guides / fishing lessons in New Jersey? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in New Jersey.

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

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore fishing are: 1. striped bass, 2. fluke, 3. black seabass, 4. tautog, and 5. triggerfish.

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

How much do New Jersey nearshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for nearshore fishing in New Jersey can range anywhere from about $813 to $2,050, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in New Jersey is $500. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in New Jersey is $1,442.

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 nearshore fishing in New Jersey?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in New Jersey is summer, and most anglers book their trips 37 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 nearshore fishing in New Jersey all about?

Nearshore fishing in New Jersey provides anglers with a diverse and rewarding experience along its Atlantic coastline. From the bustling waters of the Atlantic Ocean to the calmer bays and estuaries, New Jersey offers ample opportunities to target a variety of fish species close to shore. One of the most popular targets for anglers is striped bass, especially during their seasonal migrations along the coast. From early spring through late fall, anglers cast from beaches, jetties, and piers using a range of techniques such as live bait like bunker or clams, or artificial lures such as plugs and swimbaits designed to mimic baitfish.

Fluke, also known as summer flounder, are another prized catch in New Jersey's nearshore waters. These flatfish are found along sandy bottoms, wrecks, and artificial reefs, where they lie in wait for passing prey. Anglers use rigs baited with squid strips, minnows, or gulp baits to entice fluke into biting. The summer flounder season typically peaks in the warmer months when these fish are most active and abundant, providing anglers with a delicious and challenging catch.

For those seeking a mix of excitement and relaxation, nearshore fishing in New Jersey also offers opportunities to target bluefish, weakfish, and black sea bass. Bluefish are known for their aggressive strikes and strong fight, making them a favorite among anglers using topwater plugs or trolling with spoons. Weakfish, on the other hand, are prized for their delicate flesh and can be caught using live bait or soft plastic lures around estuaries and back bays. Black sea bass, found around wrecks and rocky structures, provide excellent table fare and are caught using jigs or bottom rigs baited with squid or cut bait. Whether fishing from shore, chartering a boat, or exploring the state's numerous fishing piers, nearshore fishing in New Jersey offers a wide range of experiences for anglers of all skill levels and preferences.

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

Nearshore fishing seasons in New Jersey offer anglers a dynamic and varied experience throughout the year. Spring kicks off the fishing calendar with the arrival of migrating species like striped bass and winter flounder. As waters warm, these fish move closer to shore, providing excellent opportunities for anglers to target them from beaches, jetties, and piers. Techniques such as casting with live bait like bloodworms or using artificial lures such as swimbaits or bucktails are effective in enticing these early-season fish. Spring also sees the arrival of bluefish and weakfish, adding diversity to the nearshore fishing options.

Summer in New Jersey is synonymous with peak nearshore fishing activity, as warm waters bring a flurry of fish activity close to shore. Fluke, or summer flounder, become a primary target during this season, with anglers focusing on sandy bottoms and artificial reefs where these flatfish gather to feed. Fishing for fluke typically involves drifting with squid strips or minnows on rigs designed to bounce along the bottom, offering a combination of relaxation and skill as anglers work to hook these elusive fish. Additionally, summer is prime time for targeting bluefish and black sea bass, known for their aggressive strikes and delicious fillets.

Fall marks a transition period in nearshore fishing in New Jersey, as cooling waters prompt fish like striped bass to feed voraciously before winter. This season offers anglers another chance to target striped bass as they migrate southward, often using similar techniques from spring but adjusting to changing conditions and fish behavior. Fall also sees continued opportunities for catching fluke and black sea bass until water temperatures drop significantly. Whether enjoying the challenge of landing a trophy striped bass or savoring the delicate flavor of fluke, nearshore fishing seasons in New Jersey provide anglers with a wealth of opportunities and memorable experiences throughout the changing seasons.

What techniques are popular for nearshore fishing in New Jersey?

Nearshore fishing in New Jersey offers anglers a variety of types and techniques tailored to the diverse fish species found along its Atlantic coastline. One popular method is surf fishing, where anglers cast lines into the breaking waves from sandy beaches. This technique is ideal for targeting species like striped bass, bluefish, and fluke, which frequent the shallower waters close to shore. Anglers use surf rods and reels equipped with bait rigs, artificial lures, or live bait such as clams or squid to entice these fish into biting. Surf fishing allows anglers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the coastline while experiencing the thrill of reeling in a variety of species that inhabit New Jersey's nearshore waters.

Fishing from piers, jetties, and rocky shorelines is another popular method in New Jersey. Anglers can access deeper water and areas with structure where fish congregate, such as striped bass around submerged rocks or bluefish patrolling the edges of jetties. Techniques vary from casting with lures like spoons and plugs to using bottom rigs baited with cut bait or live eels. This method allows anglers to adjust their approach based on tidal currents and fish behavior, maximizing their chances of landing a trophy catch.

Boat-based nearshore fishing provides anglers with access to deeper waters and specific fish habitats not easily reached from shore. Anglers target species such as fluke, black sea bass, and weakfish by drifting or anchoring near reefs, wrecks, or artificial structures. Techniques include using jigs tipped with squid or gulp baits for fluke, or dropping bottom rigs baited with clams or cut bait for black sea bass. Trolling with diving plugs or umbrella rigs is also effective for covering larger areas and locating schools of fish like striped bass or bluefish. Boat-based fishing allows anglers to explore a wider range of fishing grounds while enjoying the flexibility to adjust to changing conditions and fish movements throughout the day.

What species are popular for nearshore fishing in New Jersey?

Nearshore fishing in New Jersey offers anglers a diverse array of species to target depending on the season and location along the Atlantic coastline. One of the most coveted catches is the striped bass, which attracts anglers from early spring through late fall. These powerful fish migrate along the coast, making them accessible from beaches, jetties, and inlet mouths. Anglers often use live bait such as bunker or clams, as well as artificial lures like swimbaits and plugs, to entice striped bass into striking. Known for their strong fight and delicious meat, striped bass remain a top prize for both recreational and tournament fishermen.

Fluke, or summer flounder, are another popular species targeted in New Jersey's nearshore waters, especially during the summer months. These flatfish are found along sandy bottoms, wrecks, and artificial reefs, where they lie in ambush for passing prey. Anglers use rigs baited with squid strips, minnows, or gulp baits to tempt fluke into biting. The summer flounder season peaks when waters warm, offering anglers a blend of relaxation and skill as they work to hook these prized fish known for their delicate, sweet flesh.

Bluefish are abundant in New Jersey's nearshore waters and provide exciting action for anglers throughout the fishing season. These aggressive predators are often found patrolling the edges of jetties, chasing schools of baitfish close to shore. Anglers target bluefish using topwater plugs, spoons, or trolling with wire rigs to withstand their sharp teeth. Known for their voracious strikes and high-energy fights, bluefish offer anglers of all skill levels an exhilarating nearshore fishing experience in New Jersey.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Chad and his crew were incredible, highly communication, well prepared and most importantly, knew where to catch fish. They were super patient with my group when there was an inevitable snag or tangle. Would definitely book with Chad again.

    Matthew S. | August 4, 2024

    Trip: 6 hour trip- Striped Bass

  • ★★★★★
    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?

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