With the extensive Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Delaware River on the other side, fishing New Jersey is one of the best experiences that you can ever have. From deep-sea and freshwater fishing to ice fishing, the Garden State has something for everyone. New Jersey is among the highest populated states in the United States when it comes to both people and fish. The state’s waters contain a diverse collection of fish. With over 400 lakes, reservoirs, and ponds, plus miles of rivers and streams spread across the state, there are plenty of good fishing spots for bass, catfish, trout, tuna, swordfish, and more. Anglers aged 16 and above require a fishing license to cast a line in most spots.
Fishing Spots in New Jersey
Union Lake
Union Lake is one of the biggest reservoirs in southern New Jersey. Located in Millville, it is an ideal destination for anglers looking for black crappie, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. This 898-acre lake is known for boat fishing in mainly canoes and kayaks. If you like fishing from the coast, Union Lake has got you covered. There is plenty of vegetation in the reservoir, which can be a challenge, particularly for less experienced fishers.
Lake Mercer
If you’re wondering where to fish in New Jersey, Lake Mercer is a great choice. It’s the largest impoundment on the Assunpink Creek sewer system located within Mercer County Central Park, a few miles east of Trenton. Assunpink Creek, the lake’s source, is renowned for bass. Lake Mercer teems with panfish, channel catfish, and muskies. You can fish from the shore, and only electric motors are allowed.
Lake Wawayanda
Go fishing for salmon in Lake Wawayanda in Vernon. The lake lies within the Wawayanda State Park, surrounded by forested hills. The 19-mile-long stretch of the Appalachian Trail meanders through the park while the peak of Wawayanda Mountain provides panoramic views. Besides salmon, you can catch other species, including brown trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, pickerel, sunfish, catfish, largemouth bass, and sunfish. In some cases, this location gets overcrowded with people who are eager to do some fishing and camping in New Jersey, so plan ahead.
Greenwood Lake
The fishing in New Jersey is exhilarating at Greenwood Lake in Warwick. Located half in New York and half in New Jersey, this location is comprised of three small islands and a diverse shoreline ideal for fishing. This scenic body of water supports all types of water sports, including diving, swimming, fishing, water skiing, boating, jet skiing, canoeing, and kayaking. Smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, largemouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, catfish, and chain pickerel are common here.
Manasquan Reservoir
Manasquan Reservoir is one of New Jersey’s newest waters. This 770-acre reservoir has become a gem for bass anglers in the central part of the state. Situated in Howell, Manasquan Reservoir features various structures for fishers to fish ranging from weed beds, coves, and rocky shorelines. It teems with smallmouth bass, hybrid stripers, and largemouth bass. Only electric motors are permitted.
Lake Hopatcong
Situated 30 miles from the Delaware River and 40 miles from Manhattan, Lake Hopatcong is the most extensive freshwater reservoir in New Jersey. Its 45 miles of shoreline features numerous restaurants, public beaches, and marinas, making it an ideal spot to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The location offers top-notch fishing for bass, trout, muskie, walleye, pike, striped bass, sunfish, crappie, bluegill, chain pickerel, and catfish in north-central New Jersey.
Lake Nummy
Lake Nummy is located near Woodbine in Belleplain State Forest, and it’s home to chain pickerel, catfish, and largemouth bass. Though relatively small, this lake is an ideal destination for families and beginners. Besides the incredible fishing opportunities, this location provides small boats, picnic areas, and a campground. There is a playground available for children.
Bayshore Waterfront Park
Located in Port Monmouth near Monmouth Cove Marina, Bayshore Waterfront Park offers a unique fishing New Jersey experience. This destination allows you to enjoy tidal creeks, miles of beach, dunes, and stunning views across the water. The park also provides access to Raritan Bay and a fishing pier. You can reel in flounder, bluefish, weakfish, and striped bass when you fish here.
Where to Fish in New Jersey
Brigantine is among the quaint towns on the East Coast that most visitors overlook. Anglers flock to Atlantic City, which means fewer people are in this town and there are more fishing opportunities. Striped bass flourishes in this location throughout the year, so if you are after trophy striper, Brigantine is the perfect destination for you. Bluefish, flounder, kingfish, black seabass, tautog, tuna, and sharks are in abundance as well.
Camping and Fishing in New Jersey
Before you head out in your RV to do some fishing and camping in New Jersey, you need to pack certain supplies, including your fishing gear, first aid kit, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, seasickness medication, bug spray, a waterproof bag, and a camera. Ensure that your fridge or freezer has ample space to accommodate your catch. Don’t forget your fishing license and a printed copy of New Jersey fishing regulations to make sure that you understand the legal bag limits, slot limits, and regulations that may apply.
Fishing in New Jersey is a unique experience as the state is packed with crowds of fish that you may not be able to find anywhere else in the United States. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about fishing.
With an RV rental, your fishing trip will be a little more comfortable! After you’ve spent a long day fishing, grill up your catch right at your campsite. Then retire inside to enjoy all the comforts of home on board your RV. Plan your perfect fishing getaway with an RV rental from RVshare.
