Learn about common fish in New Jersey. Whether you want to fish for northern pike on the Passaic River or head out to Barnegat Bay for flounder, this summary of the types of fish in New Jersey will help you get acquainted with the species you can catch.
Learn about common fish in New Jersey that you can target. Do you want to try fishing for northern pike on the Passaic River or maybe take a boat out of Barnegat Bay in search of flounder? These examples of the types of fish in New Jersey will help you get acquainted with the freshwater and saltwater species you might catch.
One of the benefits of fishing in New Jersey is the variety of freshwater and saltwater species you can pursue. Knowing how to identify fish species and learning about the habitats in which they live are two important parts of becoming a successful angler.
Proper identification is required in order to follow the fishing laws and regulations for each New Jersey fish species. Most states include a fish identification guide along with the fishing regulations, but you can also check the explore fish species section.
If you want to fish for freshwater species, you can find plenty of ponds, lakes, and reservoirs to explore either by boat or from the shoreline.
Here is a list of common fish in New Jersey and examples of waterways where you can find them.
Ready to plan a saltwater fishing adventure to Sandy Hook, or Ocean City? If you are wondering which types of fish in New Jersey you can catch by boat or on a surf fishing trip, this section will be helpful.
Here is a list of common fish in New Jersey and examples of the types of saltwater spots where you can find them.
Striped bass: To target striped bass during the spring or fall run, try Barnegat and Absecon inlets.
Bluefish: Bluefish can be found along the entire coast of New Jersey, including along the beaches, out in the open ocean and in the bays.
Flounder: Oyster Creek Channel, Ludlams Bay, and Ambrose Channel are a few of the top NJ flounder spots.
Tautog: Tautog will be found around wrecks and rocks. Try Barnegat Light Reef, Cape May Reef, and 17 Fathom Bank.
Black sea bass: Wrecks, jetties, and piers are great places to find black sea bass during the spring and summer months. Try spots in Delaware Bay and Cape May.
Northern kingfish: You may want to consider a surf fishing trip to Ocean City or Whale Beach during the fall.
Spanish Mackerel: Cape May, Sea Isle Ridge, and Barnegat Ridges can be good spots to try during the summer months.
Bluefin Tuna: If you want to try your luck fishing for big bluefin, consider the waters off of Manasquan Inlet or Chicken Canyon.
If you want to learn more about how to catch fish in New Jersey, get tips on the best fishing gear and tackle to use before you go.