Where to Fish in New Jersey
Find the best places to Fish in New Jersey. Book private land for your next outdoor adventure - fishing, hunting, bird-watching and more!
"Perfect getaways for the entire family to enjoy."
"The easiest way to get exclusive access to private land for hunting."
"Connecting directly with landowners is a game changer."
LandTrust offers 1,000,000+ acres of private land for you to access in 40+ states.
Explore private land to Fish in New Jersey
Private River Recreation: Fishing, Floating, & More!
284 Acres at Wallkill River Estates | 1 Hour from NYC in Sussex, NJ
Starting Price$50 / Guest
FOR LANDOWNERS
Earn more money from your farm or ranch.
Host verified guest on your property.
List for free and earn up to $60,000 per year.
Stay 100% in control of your property.
Popular species to fish in New Jersey
New Jersey, often overlooked as a fishing destination, is home to a diverse range of fish species that attract anglers from all over the country. The state's numerous freshwater and saltwater bodies offer ample opportunities for both casual and seasoned fishermen. One of the most sought-after species is the Striped Bass, especially in the waters off Island Beach State Park. This hard-fighting fish is known for its distinctive dark stripes and can weigh up to 60 pounds. Another popular catch in New Jersey's saltwater regions is the Fluke or Summer Flounder, which provides a fun challenge due to its flat body and bottom-dwelling habits. For freshwater enthusiasts, the state boasts excellent trout fishing in its rivers and streams like the Musconetcong River and Pequest River. Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, and Brown Trout are all stocked annually by the Division of Fish & Wildlife. Largemouth Bass are also prevalent in New Jersey's lakes such as Lake Hopatcong and Manasquan Reservoir. These bass are aggressive feeders making them an exciting catch for any angler. Whether you're casting a line in saltwater or freshwater, New Jersey offers an array of species that promise an unforgettable fishing adventure.
Popular counties to fish in New Jersey
New Jersey boasts a diverse range of fishing opportunities that cater to anglers of all skill levels. One of the most popular counties for fishing is Sussex County, home to the Musconetcong River, where trout fishing is particularly rewarding. This river is regularly stocked with brown and rainbow trout, making it a haven for fly fishermen. Another top pick is Ocean County, famous for its saltwater fishing. Here you can cast your line in Barnegat Bay or Island Beach State Park and reel in flounder, striped bass or bluefish. For freshwater enthusiasts, Mercer County offers the scenic Carnegie Lake and Mercer Lake teeming with largemouth bass and catfish. Lastly, Cape May County shouldn’t be missed with its prime surf fishing spots along the Atlantic coastline where you can hook species like kingfish and weakfish. Remember to check local regulations before heading out as some areas require permits or have specific catch-and-release policies. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice looking for your first catch, New Jersey's diverse counties offer an exciting array of options for your next fishing adventure.
Popular fishing methods in New Jersey
In the diverse waters of New Jersey, anglers employ a variety of fishing methods to reel in a wide array of species. One popular technique is surf fishing, particularly along the Jersey Shore where species like striped bass, bluefish, and fluke are abundant. This method involves casting bait or lures from the shoreline into the surf with heavy-duty rods. Another common method is fly fishing, especially in freshwater streams and rivers throughout the state. Fly fishing targets species such as trout and smallmouth bass, using lightweight lures that imitate insects or other prey. The south branch of the Raritan River and the Musconetcong River are among New Jersey's prime fly fishing locations. For deep-sea enthusiasts, offshore fishing or charter boat fishing offers an adrenaline-filled experience. Anglers venture into Atlantic waters in pursuit of big game fish like tuna, marlin, and shark. Party boats operating out of ports like Cape May and Belmar provide equipment and expertise for these offshore adventures. Lastly, ice fishing is a winter tradition on frozen lakes in northern New Jersey. Anglers drill holes through the ice to catch perch, pickerel, and even walleye. Remember safety first when ice fishing - ensure the ice is at least 4 inches thick before venturing out. Whether you're a novice angler or seasoned pro, New Jersey's diverse waters offer a multitude of methods to satisfy your fishing ambitions.
Discover More
Counties in New Jersey
Species in New Jersey
Activities in New Jersey
Host in New Jersey
- Atlantic County, New Jersey
- Bergen County, New Jersey
- Burlington County, New Jersey
- Camden County, New Jersey
- Cape May County, New Jersey
- Cumberland County, New Jersey
- Essex County, New Jersey
- Gloucester County, New Jersey
- Hudson County, New Jersey
- Hunterdon County, New Jersey
- Mercer County, New Jersey
- Middlesex County, New Jersey
- Monmouth County, New Jersey
- Morris County, New Jersey
- Ocean County, New Jersey
- Passaic County, New Jersey
- Salem County, New Jersey
- Somerset County, New Jersey
- Sussex County, New Jersey
- Union County, New Jersey
- Warren County, New Jersey
Montana Hunting Units
Nebraska Hunting Units
Kansas Hunting Units
North Dakota Hunting Units
Turkey Hunting
U.S. Hunting Units