Choapa
Wreck Site off the New Jersey coast
Location
About This Ground
The SS Choapa, a Chilean-flag steamship, lies in the productive Mud Hole region off Shark River Inlet at approximately 100–130 feet, embedded in the ancient submerged Hudson River channel. The Mud Hole is one of the most historically productive fishing grounds in the NJ region, and the Choapa's wreck structure contributes to that reputation. The wreck is well-known among local captains for ling (cusk), sea bass, and tautog, typical of Mud Hole wrecks at this depth. Years of heavy fishing have left monofilament accumulation on the structure — evidence of its ongoing productivity. Shark River and Manasquan Inlet charter fleets regularly include the Choapa on multi-wreck bottom-fishing trips targeting ling and sea bass.
Target Species
Best Times to Fish
Click a species row to see fishing methods, regulations, and tips.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Striped Bass | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Good |
| Bluefish | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off |
| 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 |
Charters to Fish Choapa
Most charters depart from point-pleasant-beach - Best striper access
The Gambler
point-pleasant-beach
- ✓Family operation since 1949
- ✓Widest party boat in class
Miss Chris Boats
Cape May
- ✓Three daily departure times
- ✓Air-conditioned 80-foot vessel
Highroller Fishing
Atlantic City
- ✓No Seasick Guarantee
- ✓Only back bay party boat in AC
Compare all striped bass charters and book online
Check AvailabilityInshore Tackle for Choapa
Inshore tackle for back-bay and jetty
Ships free with Prime
Recommended tackle for Striped Bass and Bluefish fishing.
Inshore Spinning Combo (7 ft)
Medium-power 7 ft rod + 3000-class reel. Stripers, fluke, and weakies.
PENN
Penn Pursuit V Travel Spinning Reel 7' 3-PieceFishing Rod Combo, Graphite Composite Rod Blank Construction, EVA Handles
PENN
Penn Pursuit V Spinning Reel and 7' 2-Piece Fishing RodCombo, Graphite Composite Rod Blank Construction, EVA Handles
“The combo NJ surf-fishing beginners actually keep using two seasons later.”— NJ Shore Guide editors
Inshore Bucktail Jig
1/2 to 2 oz bucktails for fluking the channels and bridge pilings.
kmucutie
kmucutie 5 pcs bucktail Jigs Saltwater or Freshwater Bait,for bass flounder fluke Striper Fishing Lure (All White Color, 1 OZ)
kmucutie
kmucutie 5 pcs bucktail Jigs Saltwater or Freshwater Bait,for bass flounder fluke Striper Fishing Lure (All White Color, 2 OZ)
Inshore Surface Plug
Topwater plugs for blitzing stripers at sunrise off the inlet.
Inshore Soft Plastic
Paddle-tail and shad-style plastics for snapper blues and fluke.
Matrix Shad
Matrix Shad Original 3 Inch Fishing Lure for Speckled Trout, Redfish, Bass - Paddle Tail Swimbaits for Freshwater and Saltwater - Magneto - 8 Count Bag (Pack of 1)
Vhxmaizxn
Vhxmaizxn 30pcs Soft Plastic Fishing Lures Paddle Tail Swimbaits Soft Baits Lure for Bass Crappie Trout Shad Freshwater Saltwater Fishing Mixed 3.5 Inch 4.7 Inch Swim Bait Kit with Box
Inshore Tackle Bag
3-4 tray bag built to walk jetties without snagging or dumping.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can I catch at Choapa?
Choapa is known for Striped Bass, Bluefish, Fluke (Summer Flounder), Sea Bass.
How do I get to Choapa?
Choapa is accessible from Shark River. Check with local charter captains for precise navigation coordinates.
What makes Choapa a good fishing spot?
Wreck sites provide structure that attracts fish. They are excellent for bottom fishing and often hold sea bass, tautog, and striped bass.
Quick Info
- Type
- Wreck Site
- Nearest Inlet
- Shark River
- Depth
- 95-130 ft
- Size
- 2,666 acres
Similar Species
Fishing Reports
Check recent reports to see what's biting at Choapa.
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