Where to Catch Weakfish on the Jersey Shore

Spring Run (May-June)

Weakfish move into NJ waters as temperatures climb into the 55-65°F range. Delaware Bay sees fish first, with action spreading north through May and June. Spring weakfish are aggressive feeders recovering from winter, hitting both bait and artificials with enthusiasm.

Summer (July-August)

Weakfish spread through available habitat during summer months. Night fishing becomes productive as fish move shallow after dark to feed on grass shrimp, crabs, and small baitfish. Back bays and inlet areas hold fish throughout summer.

Fall Run (September-November)

The fall migration concentrates weakfish as they stage for their southern movement. This is often the best fishing of the year, with larger fish and aggressive feeding. Delaware Bay, Barnegat Bay, and other backwater areas see excellent action through November.

Winter

Most weakfish migrate south of New Jersey by December. Some fish winter in deeper bay areas, but targeted fishing is impractical.

Delaware Bay

Delaware Bay is historically the epicenter of NJ weakfish fishing. The bay's productive waters attract large populations of weakfish during spring and fall migrations. Fortescue, Sea Breeze, and Cape May areas produce consistent catches.

Barnegat Bay

The extensive Barnegat Bay system holds weakfish throughout the season. Channels, oyster beds, and grass flats all produce. Night fishing around lighted docks and bridges is particularly effective.

Back Bays

Protected backwater areas throughout the Jersey Shore hold weakfish. Great Bay, Little Egg Harbor, and similar protected waters provide feeding and staging habitat. Focus on channels, drop-offs, and structure.

Inlets

Inlet mouths concentrate bait and attract weakfish during tidal flow. Barnegat Inlet, Absecon Inlet, and others produce fish for both boat and shore anglers.

Surf

Weakfish occasionally push into the surf zone, particularly during spring and fall. Early morning and evening hours are most productive. Watch for sloughs and cuts that hold bait.

Live Bait

Live baits are deadly on weakfish. Grass shrimp, small crabs, killies, and spot are all effective. Fish them on light tackle with minimal weight, allowing natural movement. A standard bottom rig or simple hook-and-sinker setup works well.

Artificial Lures

Weakfish respond well to artificials, particularly soft plastics. Jig heads (1/4-1/2 oz) with paddle-tail or grub bodies are consistent producers. Work them slowly along the bottom with subtle movements. Bucktails tipped with squid or Gulp! also produce.

Topwater

During low-light periods, weakfish will hit topwater lures with spectacular strikes. Small walking baits and poppers worked slowly over shallow flats draw explosive reactions.

Night Fishing

Weakfish feed actively after dark. Fish around lighted docks, bridge pilings, and other structure that attracts bait. The shadows at the edge of the light are prime ambush points.

Light Tackle

Weakfish don't require heavy gear. 6-7 ft rods with 8-15 lb test (spinning or light conventional) are ideal. Light leader (12-20 lb fluorocarbon) maintains stealth while protecting against their sandpaper-like teeth.

The "Weak" in Weakfish

Weakfish get their name from their delicate mouth tissue that tears easily. Hooks can pull free with excessive pressure. The key is steady, moderate pressure—never lock down the drag or set the hook violently.

Hookset

Avoid hard hooksets. A firm lift of the rod tip is sufficient. Circle hooks reduce tear-outs and are increasingly popular with weakfish anglers.

Playing Fish

Keep steady pressure without jerking. Let the fish run when it wants to run—don't try to stop it. A smooth drag setting prevents the sudden jolts that tear hooks free.

Landing

Net weakfish gently rather than swinging them into the boat. Lip grippers work but require care. Handle minimally for release—their slime coat is important for survival.