September Fishing in New Jersey
The legendary fall run begins! Striped bass flood back, false albacore arrive, and tuna fishing stays strong. Many anglers' favorite month.
Overview
September marks the beginning of the legendary fall run. Striped bass start their southward migration, with numbers building throughout the month. False albacore - the "poor man's tuna" - arrive for explosive light tackle action.
Fluke season ends September 25th but fishing remains excellent. Tuna and mahi are still available offshore. Many consider this the best overall month for NJ fishing.
What's Biting in September
Peak Season
False Albacore
PeakFast and furious action. Light tackle excitement.
Sea Bass
PeakFall season excellent.
Bluefish
PeakFall blues are aggressive.
Good Fishing
Striped Bass
GoodFall run building. Numbers increasing.
28-31" slot, 1 fish, circle hooks required
Fluke
GoodSeason ends Sept 25. Fish moving offshore.
18" min, 3 fish
Tuna
GoodLate season still productive.
Mahi-Mahi
GoodSeason winding down.
Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book a September Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
September Conditions
Water Temp
66-72°F
Air Temp
60-80°F
Weather
Cooling temps. Hurricane season continues.
Tides
Moving water key. Bait movements critical.
Best Spots in September
Island Beach State Park
surf
Fall run headquarters. Beach buggy access.
Sandy Hook
surf
Great albies and stripers.
Nearshore Wrecks
charter
Fall tog season opens.
September Fishing Gear
Essential Gear for September
Essential tackle for your shore trip
Ships free with Prime
Tackle up for False Albacore, Sea Bass, Bluefish 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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September Fishing Tips
Fall Run Preparation
- ✓Get gear ready - the run can start any day
- ✓Watch for bait movements and bird activity
- ✓False albacore require light tackle and fast retrieves
- ✓Early morning and evening best for stripers
September Fishing FAQs
When does the fall striper run start in NJ?
The fall striper run typically builds throughout September and peaks in October-November. Fish follow cooling water and bait south. By late September, action is usually consistent.
What are false albacore?
False albacore are a tuna-family fish that arrive in September-October. They're fast, acrobatic fighters on light tackle. Not great eating but incredibly fun to catch.
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Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book Your September Fishing Trip
Browse local charter boats, read reviews, and book online. Everything from party boats to private charters.
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