Basin off the New Jersey coast
42 Fathom Basin is a deepwater fishing ground along the 252-foot (42-fathom) depth contour in NJ offshore waters. The consistent depth creates a productive ledge for sea bass and tautog on the bottom structure. Bluefish and bonito patrol the mid-water column during summer. Charter boats from the NJ coast target this ground during the fall sea bass season and in summer for mixed-bag offshore trips.
Click a species row to see fishing methods, regulations, and tips.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Flounder (Fluke) | Off | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off | Off |
| Black Sea Bass | Off | Off | Off | Off | Peak | Peak | Good | Good | Peak | Peak | Good | Off |
| Weakfish | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Good | Good | Off | Off | Off | Off |
Most charters depart from Barnegat Light - Prime bay fishing access
point-pleasant-beach
Cape May
Atlantic City
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Check Availability42 Fathom Basin is known for Fluke (Summer Flounder), Sea Bass, Weakfish.
Check recent reports to see what's biting at 42 Fathom Basin.
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