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
Book a October Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
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
Essential Gear for October
Essential tackle for your shore trip
Ships free with Prime
Tackle up for Striped Bass, False Albacore, 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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change. Full disclosure
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.
Get Fishing Reports Delivered
Weekly fishing reports, charter deals, and seasonal tips sent to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book Your October Fishing Trip
Browse local charter boats, read reviews, and book online. Everything from party boats to private charters.
Powered by FishingBooker • Secure online booking • Free cancellation on most trips
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more