Complete Guide to Party Boat Fishing in New Jersey

Before the Trip

Reservations aren't always required but are recommended for popular sailings. Most boats have websites or phone numbers for booking. Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to park, buy bait, and secure a spot at the rail.

On the Boat

The captain and crew handle navigation and fish-finding. Your job is fishing. Crew will announce when to drop lines, demonstrate technique if needed, and help with fish as time allows. Listen to announcements and follow instructions.

Tackle

Most boats include rod rental in the fare or offer rentals for a small fee ($5-15). Rental gear is functional but basic. Bringing your own rod gives you better feel and performance. Either way, you'll typically use bait rigs or jigs depending on target species.

Bait

Bait is usually included or sold onboard. Clam, squid, and other standard baits are available. Fresh bait—purchased at the dock shop before sailing—often outperforms what's sold onboard.

After the Trip

Crew typically clean fish for tips. The standard is $3-5 per fish or 15-20% of your fare. Have cash ready. Fish goes in your cooler; bring ice or buy it at the dock.

Half-Day Trips (4-5 hours)

The most common format. Morning and afternoon sailings target closer grounds. Perfect for beginners, families, and those with limited time. Typically $55-85 per person.

Three-Quarter Day Trips (6-8 hours)

Extended trips reaching farther offshore for bigger fish or better numbers. More fishing time, more comfortable pace. Typically $90-120 per person.

Full-Day Trips (10-12 hours)

Offshore wrecks, deeper water, and extended bottom time. Target larger sea bass, winter fish, or distant structure. Typically $130-180 per person.

Specialty Trips

Night striped bass trips, tog-only trips, combo trips targeting multiple species. These often have different schedules and prices. Check boat websites for offerings.

Evening Trips

Some boats offer shorter evening sailings (4-8pm) after regular trips return. Good for those who can't make morning departures. Often target stripers or tog.

Spring (April-June)

Striped Bass: Striper trips dominate early spring as fish migrate north. Live bait and chunks produce on bay and ocean grounds.

Tautog: Tog trips run through April before season closes in May.

Sea Bass: Season typically opens mid-May with good catches.

Fluke: Season opens early May; fishing improves through the month.

Summer (June-August)

Fluke: The main event. Most boats focus on fluke during summer. Drifts over reefs and wrecks produce limits.

Sea Bass: Available but bag limits may be reduced during peak spawning.

Bluefish: Blues show up when present—bonus catches on fluke trips.

Fall (September-December)

Sea Bass: Bag limits increase. Some of the best action of the year.

Striped Bass: Fall run trips target migrating fish. Trophy potential.

Tautog: Season reopens with excellent fall fishing.

Combo Trips: Some boats offer mixed-species trips during peak fall.

Winter (December-March)

Winter Sea Bass: Full-day trips to offshore wrecks target "humpback" sea bass—larger fish that winter in deep water.

Tautog: Tog trips continue into December on closer structure.

Limited Sailings: Weather often limits winter fishing. Boats sail when conditions allow.

Position Matters

On drift trips, stern (back) and bow (front) positions often fish better than amidships. Arrive early to claim a spot. Move if your area isn't producing and space opens elsewhere.

Watch Successful Anglers

Notice what regulars are doing differently. Observe their technique, timing, and tackle. Ask polite questions—most are happy to share tips.

Fresh Bait Wins

Buy fresh bait at the tackle shop before boarding. It significantly outperforms what's sold onboard. Clam strips for sea bass, squid and Gulp! for fluke.

Stay Alert

Don't zone out. Feel for bites. Watch your rod tip. Fish hit subtly sometimes. Being attentive catches more fish than daydreaming.

Ask the Crew

Crew members see what's working every day. Ask for tips on rigging, technique, or what's catching fish. A $5-10 tip to a helpful mate is money well spent.

Avoid Peak Crowds

Weekday trips are less crowded than weekends. More space means easier fishing. If possible, avoid the most popular Saturday morning sailings.

Belmar

Belmar hosts one of the largest party boat concentrations on the East Coast. The Big Jamaica, Miss Belmar, and others sail daily for fluke, sea bass, stripers, and tog. Shark River Inlet provides protected access.

Point Pleasant Beach

Point Pleasant rivals Belmar for fleet size. The Gambler, Norma K III, and others operate from Manasquan Inlet. Direct ocean access, multiple trip types, and year-round sailings.

Atlantic Highlands

Northern fleet specializing in Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook fishing. Sea Tiger II and others target stripers, fluke, and bottom fish. Closer to NYC area for northern anglers.

Barnegat Light

Smaller central coast fleet at Barnegat Light. Access to productive LBI area grounds. Less crowded alternative to northern ports.

Cape May & Wildwood

Southern fleets including the Cape May Lady and others. Delaware Bay access provides unique species opportunities. Good option for South Jersey anglers.

Essential Items

• Layers: Ocean is 10-15 degrees cooler than shore. Bring more than you think you need.
• Rain gear: Spray and sudden showers are common.
• Sunscreen and hat: Even on cloudy days, reflected sun burns.
• Cooler with ice: For your catch. Some boats sell ice.
• Cash: For tips, tackle shop, and concessions.

Recommended Items

• Motion sickness medication: Take 30-60 minutes before departure if prone to seasickness.
• Snacks and drinks: Most boats allow food. Some have onboard snack bars.
• Pliers: For hook removal. Boats have communal pairs, but your own is faster.
• Measuring device: Know the size limits before you need to decide.

Optional Gear

• Your own rod: Better performance than rental gear.
• Tackle bag: Jigs, bucktails, extra rigs if you prefer your own.
• GoPro or camera: Document the action.