Black Drum Fishing NJ
Delaware Bay's spring black drum run brings some of the largest fish in New Jersey waters. Target these powerful bottom feeders for an unforgettable fight.
Black drum are Delaware Bay legends. Each spring, these massive bottom-feeders move into the bay to spawn, offering NJ anglers a chance at fish exceeding 50 lbs. The drum run is a rite of spring for serious anglers, and landing a big one is an accomplishment you will not forget.
Book a Drum Charter
Spring drum trips out of Fortescue and Cape May fill quickly. Book early for peak April and May dates.
Powered by FishingBooker • Secure online booking • Free cancellation on most trips
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
The Spring Drum Run
The Delaware Bay black drum run is one of the most anticipated fishing events in New Jersey. Large spawning drum (often 20-50+ lbs) move into the bay when water temperatures warm into the mid-50s, typically mid-April through May.
Early April
⭐⭐⭐
Scouts arriving. Cold water, sporadic fish.
Late April - May
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PEAK. Main body of fish. Best action.
June
⭐⭐
Run winding down. Smaller fish remain.
Best Black Drum Spots in NJ
Fortescue
Bay FishingThe legendary black drum destination. Party boats and charters run dedicated drum trips during the spring run. Access to prime Delaware Bay grounds.
Best: April - May
Access: Charter boats from Fortescue
Cape May / Highs
Bay FishingThe Highs area off Cape May produces big drum early in the run. Charter fleet has easy access to prime water.
Best: April - May
Access: Charters from Cape May
Thompson Beach
Shore & BoatShoreline access to drum water. Wade fishing possible when drum move close. Boat launches nearby.
Best: April - May
Access: Public access
Creek Mouths
Bay FishingMaurice River, Cohansey, and other creek mouths concentrate drum during tidal movements.
Best: April - May
Access: Various launches
Book a Drum Charter
Fortescue
Party boats and charters specialize in spring drum trips
View boats →Cape May
Charter fleet runs drum trips to the Highs and nearby waters
View boats →Book a Fishing Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
Black Drum Fishing Tips
Use fresh clams
Fresh clams are essential - surf clams or chowder clams. Open them fresh and thread onto a circle hook. The scent trail brings drum in.
Fish the bottom
Black drum feed on the bottom, crushing mollusks and crustaceans with their pharyngeal teeth. Keep your bait on or near the bottom at all times.
Wait for the second tap
Drum often mouth the bait before committing. Feel the initial tap, let the fish take it, and set when you feel steady pressure.
Bring heavy tackle
A 40 lb drum pulls hard. Use medium-heavy to heavy conventional gear with 40-50 lb line. Light tackle will cost you fish.
Watch water temperature
The drum run is temperature-dependent. When Delaware Bay water hits the mid-50s, drum start arriving. Peak is typically when temps reach 58-65°F.
Black Drum Fishing Gear
Rod & Reel
- • Medium-heavy to heavy conventional rod
- • Conventional reel with 40-50 lb line
- • Strong backbone for big fish
- • Star drag or lever drag
Terminal Tackle
- • 6/0-8/0 circle hooks
- • Heavy-duty fish finder rigs
- • 4-8 oz sinkers
- • 60-80 lb leader material
Bait
- • Fresh surf clams (top bait)
- • Chowder clams
- • Sand fleas/mole crabs
- • Blue crab chunks
Accessories
- • Sturdy rod holders
- • Heavy-duty cooler
- • Pliers for hook removal
- • Camera for trophy shots
NJ Black Drum Regulations (2026)
Size Limit
16 inches
Minimum total length
Bag Limit
3 Fish
Per angler, per day
Season
Year-Round
Open all year
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for black drum fishing in NJ?
The black drum run in Delaware Bay peaks from mid-April through May. This is when large spawning drum (20-50+ lbs) move into the bay. The run is temperature-dependent - watch for water temps in the mid-50s to 60s.
What are the NJ black drum regulations?
NJ black drum regulations require a 16-inch minimum size and 3 fish per angler daily bag limit. There is no closed season, but the spring run is when large fish are most available.
Where is the best black drum fishing in NJ?
Delaware Bay is the black drum capital of NJ. Top spots include Fortescue, the Highs area off Cape May, Thompson Beach, and the various creek mouths along the bay. Fish move in with the warming water.
What bait works best for black drum?
Fresh clams are the traditional bait - surf clams or chowder clams fished on the bottom. Sand fleas (mole crabs), blue crab, and shrimp also work. Fresh bait significantly outperforms frozen.
How big do black drum get in NJ?
Delaware Bay black drum commonly reach 20-40 lbs, with fish over 50 lbs caught each season. The NJ state record is over 100 lbs! These are powerful fish that test tackle.
Are black drum good to eat?
Smaller drum (under 15 lbs) are good eating with firm white flesh. Large spawning fish are often released - the meat can be coarse and less desirable. Most trophy drum are caught and released.
Book Your Drum Trip
The Delaware Bay drum run is short but spectacular. Book early for spring dates when trophy fish are in the bay.
Powered by FishingBooker • Secure online booking • Free cancellation on most trips
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more