March Fishing in New Jersey
Spring awakening! Winter flounder peak, early stripers appear, and tog fishing stays strong. The fishing year begins in earnest.
Overview
March is when the fishing year truly begins. Winter flounder are at peak numbers in back bays, providing excellent action on light tackle. Early striped bass start pushing into the bays.
Tautog fishing remains productive in the spring season. Water temperatures climbing through the 40s trigger increased fish activity across species.
What's Biting in March
Peak Season
Winter Flounder
PeakPeak spawning run in bays. Best fishing of the year for this species.
12" min, 2 fish limit
Good Fishing
Tautog
GoodSpring tog season. Fish becoming more active.
15" min, spring limits apply
Striped Bass
GoodEarly spring run begins. Schoolies in bays.
Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book a March Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
March Conditions
Water Temp
40-48°F
Air Temp
35-55°F
Weather
Variable spring weather. Warming trend.
Tides
Incoming tides best for flounder in bays.
Best Spots in March
Barnegat Bay
bay
Prime flounder grounds. Stripers following bait.
Sandy Hook Bay
bay
Good flounder fishing and early striper action.
Delaware Bay
bay
Early drum and stripers as water warms.
March Fishing Gear
Essential Gear for March
Essential tackle for your shore trip
Ships free with Prime
Tackle up for Winter Flounder, Tautog, Striped Bass 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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March Fishing Tips
Spring Flounder Success
- ✓Target channels and deeper holes in bays
- ✓Use two-hook rigs with small hooks
- ✓Bloodworms outfish other baits
- ✓Anchor and chum with crushed clams
March Fishing FAQs
What is the best fishing in NJ in March?
Winter flounder are at their peak in March. Back bays like Barnegat and Sandy Hook offer excellent flounder fishing. Early stripers also start appearing.
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Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
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