October Fishing in New Jersey
The fall run peaks! Trophy striped bass, false albacore frenzy, tautog opens, and bluefish blitzes. This is what NJ fishing is all about.
Overview
October is prime time for the fall run. Striped bass are pushing through in numbers with trophy fish mixed in. False albacore are at peak activity. Bluefish blitzes are a daily occurrence.
Tautog season reopens for what many consider the best tog fishing of the year. Sea bass remain strong. The surf is alive with activity as bait and gamefish migrate.
What's Biting in October
Peak Season
Striped Bass
PeakPeak fall run. Trophy fish present.
28-31" slot, 1 fish, circle hooks required
False Albacore
PeakPeak season. Follow the blitzes.
Tautog
PeakFall season opens. Quality fish.
15" min, increased limits
Bluefish
PeakFall blues are big and aggressive.
Sea Bass
PeakExcellent fall fishing.
Good Fishing
Tuna
GoodLate season. Weather dependent.
Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
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October Conditions
Water Temp
58-66°F
Air Temp
50-70°F
Weather
Fall weather. Nor'easters possible.
Tides
All tides productive. Follow the bait.
Best Spots in October
Island Beach State Park
surf
Ground zero for the fall run.
Sandy Hook
surf
Consistent fall action.
Manasquan Inlet
jetty
Multi-species jetty fishing.
Offshore Wrecks
charter
Prime tog and sea bass.
October Fishing Gear
October Fishing Tips
Fall Run Success
- ✓Follow the birds - they mark the bait
- ✓Fish dawn and dusk for big stripers
- ✓Keep multiple rods rigged for different situations
- ✓Layer clothing - weather changes fast
Fall Tog Tips
- ✓Green crabs are the go-to bait
- ✓Fish tight to structure
- ✓Sensitive rod tip for bite detection
- ✓Quality hooks - tog have hard mouths
October Fishing FAQs
When is the best fall striper fishing in NJ?
October through early November is typically peak fall run. Water temperatures in the upper 50s to low 60s trigger the best action. Follow bait schools and bird activity.
What size stripers can you catch in the fall run?
Fall run stripers range from schoolies (under 28") to trophy fish over 40 lbs. October and November offer the best shots at larger fish. The slot limit is 28-31 inches with circle hooks required.
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Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book Your October Fishing Trip
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