As the days get longer and the weather warms up, spring in Southern New Jersey brings fresh opportunities for anglers to reel in a variety of fish. With the waters warming up, fish become more active, and it’s one of the best times of the year to fish in the region. Here's a guide to what you can catch in the spring and the best times to head out.
Stripped Bass
Best Time: March through May
Spring is prime time for striped bass fishing in New Jersey. As these fish migrate up the coast, they move into bays, rivers, and tidal waters. Late March to early May is the peak of the run, especially around areas like Barnegat Bay and the Delaware River. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times to hook into these powerful fish
Black Drum
Best Time: April through May
Black drum are another species that start to move into our waters in spring. Known for their large size and strong fight, these fish are often found in deeper channels and near the inlet areas. The best time to catch black drum is during the tide changes, particularly in late spring.
Fluke (Summer Flounder)
Best Time: May through June
Fluke fishing picks up in the spring as water temperatures warm up. Southern New Jersey is known for its excellent fluke fishing, particularly around the inlets and the back bays. While the peak of the season comes in the summer, spring is a great time to catch this delicious fish as they begin to move into shallower waters to feed.
Weakfish
Best Time: April through June
Weakfish are abundant in our local waters in the spring, making them a popular catch. They are often found in the bays and estuaries, especially around the Great Egg Harbor Bay and Tuckahoe River. Springtime is the best time to fish for weakfish, particularly in the early morning hours.
Bluefish
Best Time: Late April through June
Bluefish begin to show up in Southern New Jersey waters in late spring, especially in April and May. These aggressive fish provide exciting action for anglers and are often caught from the shore or on boats. Look for them around the surf, inlet areas, and near offshore reefs during the peak of the season.
Trout
Best Time: March through April
Trout fishing is still strong in the early spring, especially in the stocked ponds, lakes, and streams. Popular spots like the Maurice River, Rancocas Creek, and several local reservoirs provide excellent trout-fishing opportunities in the spring, especially after stockings in March and April.
Tips for Spring Fishing in New Jersey:
Watch for Tidal Changes: Many fish species in the spring, such as striped bass and black drum, are more active during tidal changes, so plan your fishing trips around these times.
Use Lighter Gear: The waters start to warm, so light tackle can provide more fun when fishing for species like weakfish and bluefish.
Target Shallow Areas: As the water warms, many fish will head to the shallows to feed. Focus on flats, estuaries, and bays where fish are gathering for the season.
Bait Choices: Live baits, such as bunker, herring, and bloodworms, are often the most successful for targeting striped bass and black drum in the spring.
Spring fishing in New Jersey is an exciting time to get out on the water, with a variety of species becoming active and offering plenty of action for anglers. Make the most of the season with these tips, and enjoy some of the best fishing opportunities of the year.
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