Kingfish Fishing NJ
The ultimate summer surf species. Kingfish are abundant, delicious, and perfect for a relaxing day on the beach with a rod in the sand.
Kingfish (also called northern whiting) are a summer surf fishing staple in New Jersey. These tasty fish arrive with warm water and provide consistent action from July through September. With no size or bag limits and delicious white meat, kingfish are perfect for shore anglers looking for a relaxing day on the beach.
Why Anglers Love Kingfish
🎣 Easy to Catch
Kingfish are cooperative feeders. Simple rigs, basic bait, and a little patience will put fish on the beach.
🍽️ Delicious
Many anglers consider kingfish the best-eating surf fish. Sweet, mild white meat that is perfect pan-fried.
📋 No Limits
No minimum size, no bag limit, no closed season. One of the most accessible fish for shore anglers.
Book a Surf Fishing Trip
Guided surf fishing trips target kingfish and other summer species. Learn the spots and techniques from experienced local guides.
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Kingfish Season
June
⭐⭐⭐
Early arrivals as water warms.
July
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Good numbers. Season building.
August
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
PEAK. Best fishing.
September
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Still good until water cools.
Best Kingfish Spots in NJ
Island Beach State Park
Surf FishingMiles of pristine surf with excellent kingfish action in summer. Beach buggy access lets you find productive troughs.
Best: July - September
Access: State park fee, beach buggy permit available
Long Beach Island
Surf Fishing18 miles of beach with consistent kingfish throughout. Beach access points every few blocks.
Best: July - September
Access: Beach badges required in most areas
Cape May Beaches
Surf FishingSouthern NJ beaches produce excellent kingfish. Warmer water means longer season.
Best: June - September
Access: Beach badges required
Sandy Hook
Surf & PierNational park beaches with no NJ license required. Good kingfish from surf and jetties.
Best: July - August
Access: Free (park fees in summer)
Kingfish Fishing Tips
Fish the troughs
Kingfish feed in the sandy troughs between sandbars. Wade out at low tide to identify where the bars and troughs are, then fish the deeper water when the tide comes in.
Use small hooks
Kingfish have small mouths. Size 4-6 hooks work best. Larger hooks will result in missed fish or gut-hooked fish.
Keep bait fresh
Fresh bloodworms significantly outperform old bait. Keep worms cool and bedded in seaweed. Replace bait every 15-20 minutes if not getting bites.
Fish early morning
The first few hours of daylight are prime kingfish time. Set up before sunrise for the best action. Evening can also be good.
Look for clean water
Kingfish prefer clear to slightly turbid water. After storms when the surf is murky, fishing can be slow. Wait for water to clear.
Kingfish Fishing Gear
Light surf tackle is ideal. Keep it simple:
Rod & Reel
- • Light to medium spinning rod (8-9 ft)
- • Spinning reel (3000-4000)
- • 10-15 lb mono or braid
- • Sensitive tip for light bites
Terminal Tackle
- • Size 4-6 hooks (small!)
- • Fish finder rigs
- • 2-4 oz pyramid sinkers
- • Swivels to prevent twist
Bait
- • Bloodworms (top choice)
- • Squid strips
- • Shrimp pieces
- • GULP! Bloodworms (backup)
Accessories
- • Sand spike rod holders
- • Small cooler with ice
- • Needle-nose pliers
- • Measuring board (optional)
NJ Kingfish Regulations (2026)
Size Limit
No Minimum
Keep what you catch
Bag Limit
No Limit
Keep only what you will eat
Season
Year-Round
Best in summer
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for kingfish fishing in NJ?
Kingfish fishing in NJ peaks from July through September, with August being the best month. These warm-water fish arrive when ocean temperatures climb into the 70s and remain until fall cooling pushes them south.
What are the NJ kingfish regulations?
There is no minimum size limit, no bag limit, and no closed season for kingfish (northern whiting) in New Jersey. They are one of the most accessible fish for shore anglers.
Where is the best kingfish fishing in NJ?
Kingfish are found along the entire NJ surf in summer. Sandy beaches with gentle slopes and troughs are most productive. Island Beach State Park, LBI, and the Cape May beaches are particularly good.
What bait works best for kingfish?
Bloodworms are the #1 kingfish bait, followed by squid strips. Use small pieces on size 4-6 hooks - kingfish have small mouths. Fish finder rigs with enough weight to hold bottom work well.
How do you identify kingfish?
Kingfish (northern whiting) have an elongated body with a prominent chin barbel. They have dusky bars on their sides and a slightly pointed snout. Not to be confused with king mackerel, which is a different species.
Are kingfish good to eat?
Kingfish are excellent eating - many consider them one of the best-tasting surf fish. The white, flaky meat is mild and sweet. Pan-frying whole fish is a classic preparation. Fresh kingfish is far better than anything store-bought.
Book a Summer Fishing Trip
Target kingfish and other summer surf species with experienced guides who know the productive beaches.
Powered by FishingBooker • Secure online booking • Free cancellation on most trips
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more