August Fishing in New Jersey
Summer peak continues! Trophy tuna, mahi bonanza, fluke still hot, and sharks in close. Late summer brings excellent diversity.
Overview
August is trophy tuna month. Bluefin up to 500+ lbs are documented in the canyons. Mahi fishing is excellent with good numbers on weedlines and debris.
Fluke fishing remains strong though some fish start moving offshore. Sharks are still active. The warm water keeps everything biting.
What's Biting in August
Peak Season
Tuna
PeakTrophy bluefin possible. Peak yellowfin.
Mahi-Mahi
PeakPeak numbers. Weedlines productive.
Shark
PeakMako and thresher sharks.
Fluke
PeakLate season still productive.
18" min, 3 fish
Bluefish
PeakSummer blues. Blitzes continue.
Sea Bass
PeakConsistent wreck fishing.
Good Fishing
Croaker
GoodSummer species continues.
Kingfish
GoodGreat light tackle fun.
Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book a August Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
August Conditions
Water Temp
72-78°F
Air Temp
75-90°F
Weather
Hot and humid. Hurricane season - watch forecasts.
Tides
Early morning best to beat heat.
Best Spots in August
Hudson Canyon
offshore
Prime tuna grounds. Trophy potential.
Nearshore Wrecks
charter
Multi-species action.
Surf Beaches
surf
Early morning for best action.
August Fishing Gear
Essential Gear for August
Essential tackle for your shore trip
Ships free with Prime
Tackle up for Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, Shark this month.
Spinning Rod & Reel Combo
Versatile combo for surf and pier fishing.
PENN
Penn Pursuit V Spinning Reel and 7' 2-Piece Fishing RodCombo, Graphite Composite Rod Blank Construction, EVA Handles
“The combo NJ surf-fishing beginners actually keep using two seasons later.”— Jersey Shore Guide editors
PENN
Penn Pursuit V Travel Spinning Reel 7' 3-PieceFishing Rod Combo, Graphite Composite Rod Blank Construction, EVA Handles
Tackle Box
Organize lures, hooks, and tackle.
KastKing
KastKing HyperSeal Waterproof Tackle Box, 3600 and 3700 Tackle Trays, Fishing Tackle Box Organizer with Removable Dividers, Lure Box and Terminal Tackle Storage
KastKing
KastKing HyperSeal 3500 Double-Sided Waterproof Fishing Tackle Box – Adjustable Dividers, EVA Foam Jig Storage, Lure & Terminal Tackle Organizer,2 Pack
Fishing Cooler (50qt+)
Keep your catch fresh. 50+ quart for serious fishing.
Surf Fishing Waders
Stay dry during surf fishing. Neoprene for cold water.
Studded Jetty Boots
Grip on slippery rocks and jetties.
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August Fishing Tips
Trophy Tuna Tips
- ✓Book overnight trips for best shots at giants
- ✓Chunking and jigging both work
- ✓Bring fighting belt - big fish pull hard
- ✓Weather windows are key
August Fishing FAQs
What size tuna can you catch in NJ in August?
August offers the best shot at trophy bluefin tuna. Fish over 500 lbs have been caught in NJ waters. Yellowfin average 40-80 lbs with occasional larger fish.
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Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
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