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Damn Good Deep Sea Fishing Charters In New Jersey

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

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Recently Booked Deep Sea Fishing Charters In New Jersey

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
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
Fishing in Old Bridge

Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Old Bridge

Tautog Wreck Trip

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

Top Cities for Deep Sea Fishing in New Jersey

Top Types of Deep Sea Trips in New Jersey

Top Species for Deep Sea 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 Deep Sea Fishing Charters In New Jersey

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 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 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 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 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
See All Deep Sea 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

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a New Jersey deep sea fishing charter

What are the best deep sea fishing charters in New Jersey?

The best deep sea fishing charters in New Jersey are:

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 6 deep sea trips in New Jersey, and the most popular trips in the area are 10-Hour Offshore Special guided by Michael, Mahi/Wahoo on the Troll guided by Mark, and 16-Hour Canyon (Tuna/Wahoo/Mahi) guided by Mark.

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 deep sea guides / fishing lessons in New Jersey? Check out our beginner and family friendly deep sea guides in New Jersey.

What types of deep sea fishing charters are common in New Jersey?

The most commonly sought after species for deep sea fishing are: 1. mahi mahi, 2. bluefin tuna, 3. bonito, 4. bigeye tuna, and 5. wahoo.

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

How much do New Jersey deep sea fishing charters cost?

Prices for deep sea fishing in New Jersey can range anywhere from about $988 to $2,850, but the average price for a full day trip for deep sea fishing in New Jersey is $1,654.

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 deep sea fishing in New Jersey?

The most popular season for deep sea fishing in New Jersey is fall, and most anglers book their trips 28 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 offshore in New Jersey all about?

Offshore fishing in New Jersey offers anglers a diverse and exciting array of opportunities along its Atlantic coastline. Departing from ports such as Atlantic City, Point Pleasant, and Cape May, anglers can access productive offshore waters that teem with a variety of game fish. One of the primary targets for offshore anglers in New Jersey is the striped bass, known for its powerful runs and aggressive feeding behavior. These prized game fish are often found near underwater structures, reefs, and along the continental shelf where they chase baitfish. Anglers typically use trolling techniques with live bait or artificial lures to entice striped bass, providing thrilling battles and the opportunity to land trophy-sized catches.

In addition to striped bass, offshore anglers in New Jersey also target a variety of pelagic species such as bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, and shark. Bluefin tuna, in particular, are highly sought after for their size and strength, often roaming the deeper waters in search of prey. Anglers employ trolling with large lures or live bait to attract these powerful predators, enjoying intense fights and the satisfaction of landing a prized catch. Mahi-mahi, with their vibrant colors and acrobatic leaps, are another favorite target during certain times of the year when they migrate closer to the coast.

For those interested in bottom fishing, New Jersey's offshore reefs and wrecks provide ample opportunities to target species like black sea bass, flounder, and various types of snapper and grouper. Bottom fishing enthusiasts typically use heavy tackle and baited rigs to reach depths where these bottom-dwelling fish congregate. Success in bottom fishing requires patience and skill in navigating the underwater terrain while enticing bites from these larger, often elusive species. Overall, offshore fishing in New Jersey offers anglers a wealth of opportunities to experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing and the chance to land impressive catches in the productive waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Offshore fishing seasons in New Jersey offer anglers distinct opportunities throughout the year to pursue a variety of species in the Atlantic Ocean's rich waters. Spring marks the beginning of the offshore season as water temperatures begin to warm, prompting the migration of striped bass and other pelagic species closer to the coast. Striped bass are particularly active during this time, feeding aggressively near underwater structures, reefs, and along the continental shelf. Anglers often use trolling techniques with live bait or artificial lures to target these powerful fish, enjoying exhilarating battles and the chance to land impressive catches.

Summer brings peak offshore fishing action in New Jersey as warmer waters attract larger pelagic species such as bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, and shark. Bluefin tuna, known for their size and strength, become more prevalent in the deeper offshore waters as they pursue schools of mackerel and squid. Anglers employ trolling techniques with large lures or live bait to attract these formidable predators, experiencing intense fights and the thrill of hooking into one of the ocean's most powerful fish. The extended daylight hours and calm seas of summer also provide ideal conditions for extended offshore fishing trips, allowing anglers ample time to explore deeper waters and target a diverse range of offshore species.

Fall marks a transitional period in offshore fishing as water temperatures gradually cool and some pelagic species begin their migration southward. However, this season remains productive for anglers targeting bottom-dwelling species such as black sea bass, flounder, and various types of snapper and grouper around offshore reefs and wrecks. Bottom fishing becomes particularly rewarding as these fish become more active in preparation for winter. Anglers typically use heavy tackle and baited rigs to reach depths where these bottom-dwelling species congregate, providing a satisfying challenge and the opportunity to reel in impressive catches. Overall, offshore fishing seasons in New Jersey offer anglers diverse opportunities throughout the year, ensuring there's always something exciting to pursue whether targeting migrating pelagic species or bottom fishing for reef dwellers in the Atlantic waters off the coast of the Garden State.

What techniques are popular for offshore in New Jersey?

Offshore fishing in New Jersey encompasses a variety of types and techniques tailored to its expansive Atlantic coastline and the diverse species that inhabit its waters. One of the primary techniques used by anglers is trolling, where boats move at varying speeds while trailing lines equipped with artificial lures or rigged baits. Trolling targets pelagic species such as striped bass, bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, and shark, which are attracted to the movement and appearance of the lures. Anglers adjust their trolling speeds and depths based on water conditions and the behavior of the targeted species, often focusing efforts around underwater structures, reefs, and offshore canyons where these predators feed.

Bottom fishing is another popular technique employed by offshore anglers in New Jersey, particularly around submerged reefs, wrecks, and artificial structures. This method targets species like black sea bass, flounder, porgies, and various types of snapper and grouper that inhabit the ocean floor. Anglers typically use heavy tackle and baited rigs to reach depths where these bottom-dwelling fish congregate. Success in bottom fishing requires patience and skill in navigating the rugged underwater terrain while enticing bites from these larger, often elusive species.

Jigging and casting are dynamic techniques favored by anglers targeting specific pelagic species or structure-dwelling fish like striped bass and bluefish. Jigging involves vertically dropping weighted lures or jigs to various depths and then jerking them upwards to mimic the movements of prey, enticing strikes from predatory fish. This method is effective for triggering bites from fish that are feeding near the surface or around submerged structures. Casting with lures or live baits is another versatile approach, particularly around visible structure such as rock piles or buoys, where species like bluefish and Spanish mackerel are known to gather. Each technique requires knowledge of fish behavior, understanding of seasonal patterns, and skillful execution to maximize success while enjoying the excitement of offshore fishing in New Jersey's productive Atlantic waters.

What species are popular for offshore in New Jersey?

Offshore fishing in New Jersey offers anglers a rich diversity of species to target, providing opportunities for both seasoned fishermen and recreational enthusiasts. One of the most prized catches in these waters is the striped bass, renowned for its powerful fights and aggressive feeding behavior. Found near underwater structures, reefs, and along the continental shelf, striped bass are targeted using trolling techniques with live bait or artificial lures. Spring and fall are prime seasons for striped bass in New Jersey, offering anglers thrilling battles and the chance to land trophy-sized fish.

Bluefin tuna are another highly sought-after species in New Jersey's offshore waters, prized for their size, strength, and premium quality meat. These pelagic giants roam the deeper waters of the Atlantic, pursuing schools of mackerel and squid. Anglers often target bluefin tuna using trolling techniques with large lures or live bait, enjoying intense fights and memorable experiences on the open sea. Summer and early fall are typically the best times to encounter these impressive fish off the coast of New Jersey.

For anglers interested in bottom fishing, New Jersey's offshore reefs and wrecks provide abundant opportunities to target species such as black sea bass, flounder, porgies, and various types of snapper and grouper. Bottom fishing requires patience and skill, as anglers use heavy tackle and baited rigs to reach depths where these bottom-dwelling species congregate. Throughout the year, bottom fishing in New Jersey's offshore waters yields a rewarding challenge and the chance to bring home a delicious catch. Whether pursuing the thrill of battling a striped bass or the challenge of bottom fishing for reef dwellers, offshore fishing in New Jersey promises diverse opportunities and memorable experiences for anglers of all skill levels.

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.

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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 Deep Sea Trips in New Jersey