May Fishing in New Jersey
Peak spring fishing! Striped bass everywhere, fluke season opens, weakfish return, and the back bays are on fire.
Overview
May is arguably the best month for NJ fishing diversity. Striped bass are everywhere - surf, bays, jetties, and offshore. The fluke season opens in early May.
Weakfish make their return to Delaware Bay and back bays. Sea bass season opens. Tautog reopens for the spring season. Simply put, everything is biting.
What's Biting in May
Peak Season
Striped Bass
PeakPeak of spring run. Trophy fish possible.
28-31" slot, 1 fish, circle hooks required
Weakfish
PeakSpring run arrives. Dawn/dusk best.
13" min, 1 fish
Tautog
PeakSpring season reopens. Active fish.
Black Drum
PeakDelaware Bay run continues.
Good Fishing
Fluke
GoodSeason opens May 4. Early season building.
18" min, 3 fish
Sea Bass
GoodSeason opens. Fish on structure.
13" min, 10 fish
Bluefish
GoodBlues following bait north.
Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book a May Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
May Conditions
Water Temp
55-62°F
Air Temp
55-75°F
Weather
Warming, occasional rain. Great fishing weather.
Tides
All tides productive with this much activity.
Best Spots in May
Island Beach State Park
surf
Peak surf fishing. Beach buggy essential.
Barnegat Bay
bay
Multi-species action in the bay.
Delaware Bay
bay
Prime weakfish water.
Offshore Wrecks
charter
Season opens for both species.
May Fishing Gear
Essential Gear for May
Essential tackle for your shore trip
Ships free with Prime
Tackle up for Striped Bass, Weakfish, Tautog 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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May Fishing Tips
May Multi-Species Tips
- ✓Be versatile - bring tackle for multiple species
- ✓Early morning surf for stripers
- ✓Afternoon fluke drifting in bays
- ✓Evening weakfish at inlet mouths
May Fishing FAQs
When does fluke season open in NJ?
Fluke (summer flounder) season typically opens around May 4th and runs through September 25th. Check current regulations for exact dates.
What is the best fishing in NJ in May?
May offers incredible variety: peak striped bass, opening fluke season, returning weakfish, sea bass, and continuing black drum. It's one of the best months for NJ fishing.
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Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
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