With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Delaware River on the other, you’ll have plenty of options when fishing in New Jersey. The Garden State has everything from deep-sea and freshwater fishing to ice fishing. New Jersey’s waters contain a diverse collection of fish, and there are plenty of good fishing spots for bass, catfish, trout, tuna, swordfish, and more. Anglers aged 16 and above require a fishing license in most spots.
Fishing Spots in New Jersey
Here are some of the best fishing spots in New Jersey. You’ll find plenty of bass fishing in the state, along with a variety of other fish to catch.
Union Lake
Union Lake is one of the biggest reservoirs in southern New Jersey. Located in Millville, it’s an ideal destination for anglers looking for black crappie, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. Many people enjoy fishing from canoes and kayaks on this 898-acre lake. You can also fish from shore.
Mercer Lake
If you’re wondering where to fish in New Jersey, Mercer Lake is a great choice. It’s the largest impoundment on the Assunpink Creek watershed located within Mercer County Park, a few miles east of Trenton. Assunpink Creek, the lake’s source, is renowned for bass. Mercer Lake teems with panfish, channel catfish, and muskies. You can fish from the shore, and only electric motors are allowed. You’ll also find lots of campgrounds near Trenton where you can stay.
Lake Wawayanda
Go fishing for bass 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, catfish, largemouth bass, and sunfish. In some cases, the lake can get crowded, so you may want to arrive early during popular times of year.
There is only group camping available at the state park, and campsites require a minimum of seven people.
Greenwood Lake
Greenwood Lake in Warwick is located half in New York and half in New Jersey. It’s 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.
There is camping available at Harriman State Park at Beaver Pond Campground. There are no hookups, and larger Class A motorhomes may be too big for the park’s specifications. Black Bear RV Park is also nearby and has full hookups, nature trails, horseshoes, and more.
Manasquan Reservoir
Manasquan Reservoir is one of New Jersey’s newest reservoirs. 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 fishing, ranging from weed beds to coves to rocky shorelines. It teems with smallmouth bass, hybrid stripers, and largemouth bass. Only electric motors are permitted if fishing by boat.
Lake Hopatcong
Situated 30 miles from the Delaware River and 40 miles from Manhattan, Lake Hopatcong is the largest freshwater lake in New Jersey. Its 40 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, sunfish, crappie, bluegill, chain pickerel, and catfish in north-central New Jersey.
While there is no camping right on the lake, there is camping nearby at the Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. You’ll find electric and water hookups, and the campground is pet-friendly. You can also camp at Panther Lake Camping Resort. It has full hookups, a playground, planned events, and more.
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 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 here, 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 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.
