Where to Catch Winter Flounder on the Jersey Shore

Late Winter/Early Spring (March)

Winter flounder begin moving into shallow back bays as water temperatures rise above 35°F. March can produce fish, though action depends heavily on water temperatures. Early arrivals stage in deeper channels before spreading to shallower feeding areas.

Peak Season (April-May)

This is prime time for NJ flounder fishing. Fish spread throughout available habitat, feeding actively in preparation for spawning. Water temperatures in the 40-55°F range trigger the best action. Early morning often produces the most consistent bites.

Late Spring Departure (June)

As waters warm above 60°F, winter flounder move to deeper, cooler water offshore. The window closes by mid-June in most years, with fish largely absent from back bays until the following spring.

Fall Fishing

Some flounder return to back bays during fall as temperatures drop, though populations are generally lower than spring. Fall regulations may vary—check current rules.

Barnegat Bay

The extensive Barnegat Bay system is prime winter flounder territory. Channels, oyster beds, and muddy bottoms hold fish throughout the spring season. Double Creek, Tices Shoal, and other named areas produce consistently.

Great Bay

Protected waters with excellent flounder habitat. Muddy bottoms and eelgrass beds attract wintering and spawning flounder. Less boat traffic means less pressure.

Raritan Bay

Northern NJ waters hold flounder for anglers closer to the metro area. Sandy bottoms mixed with mud provide feeding habitat. The Shrewsbury and Navesink rivers also produce.

Delaware Bay

The extensive shallows and mud flats of Delaware Bay support winter flounder, particularly in the upper bay. Fishing pressure is lower than Barnegat.

Key Bottom Features

Winter flounder prefer muddy or sandy-mud bottoms where they can bury themselves and ambush prey. Look for:

• Channel edges and drop-offs
• Oyster beds and shell bottoms
• Eelgrass beds
• Protected coves out of current

Bait Selection

Bloodworms are the traditional flounder bait and remain highly effective. Their scent and movement attract flounder from surrounding areas. Sandworms work as well. Fresh bait dramatically outperforms frozen.

Clam strips and small pieces of squid serve as backup baits. Some anglers tip artificial lures with bait strips for added attraction.

Rigging

The standard flounder rig is simple:

• Spreader rig or simple bottom rig
• Small hooks (size 6-2)
• Light sinker (1-3 oz depending on current)
• Short leaders (12-18 inches)

Keep rigs simple and presentations close to the bottom where flounder feed.

Detecting Bites

Flounder don't slam baits. The bite is often just a subtle pressure or slight movement of the line. Use sensitive rods and stay focused. Many anglers miss bites by not paying attention.

Hooking Fish

When you feel the bite, wait. Let the flounder mouth the bait and take it fully before setting the hook with a firm lift. Striking too early results in missed fish.

Boat Position

Anchor securely over productive bottom. Flounder don't chase—your bait needs to be right in front of them. A fish finder helps locate bottom structure where flounder congregate.

Rods

Sensitive rods are essential for detecting subtle bites. A 6-7 ft light to medium-light spinning rod with a soft tip works well. Some anglers prefer specialized "flounder" rods with extra-sensitive tips.

Reels

Light spinning reels in the 2500-3000 class are appropriate. Smooth drags aren't critical—flounder don't make runs. Focus on reliable performance in cold, wet conditions.

Line

Light line (8-12 lb) provides sensitivity for bite detection. Braided line excels here—the lack of stretch transmits subtle bites better than mono. Use a short fluorocarbon leader.

Terminal Tackle

Stock up on:

• Small hooks (size 6-2)
• Bank or pyramid sinkers (1-3 oz)
• Spreader rigs
• Swivels
• Fluorocarbon leader material