Hole off the New Jersey coast
Dusky Hole is a productive fishing hole where depth changes create ideal conditions for various species. Most accessible from Barnegat Inlet.
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 |
| Black Sea Bass | Off | Off | Off | Off | Peak | Peak | Good | Good | Peak | Peak | Good | Off |
| Tautog (Blackfish) | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Off | Off | Off | Off | Peak | Peak | Good |
Most charters depart from Cape May - Structure fishing experts
point-pleasant-beach
Cape May
Barnegat Light
Compare all tautog charters and book online
Check AvailabilityInshore tackle for back-bay and jetty
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Recommended tackle for Tautog and Sea Bass fishing.
Medium-power 7 ft rod + 3000-class reel. Stripers, fluke, and weakies.

PENN

PENN
“The combo NJ surf-fishing beginners actually keep using two seasons later.”— Jersey Shore Guide editors
1/2 to 2 oz bucktails for fluking the channels and bridge pilings.

kmucutie

kmucutie
Topwater plugs for blitzing stripers at sunrise off the inlet.

JOGFFDE

FUSIGO
Paddle-tail and shad-style plastics for snapper blues and fluke.

Matrix Shad

Vhxmaizxn
3-4 tray bag built to walk jetties without snagging or dumping.

KastKing

KastKing
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Dusky Hole is known for Tautog, Sea Bass, Striped Bass.
Dusky Hole is accessible from Barnegat Inlet. Check with local charter captains for precise navigation coordinates.
Check recent reports to see what's biting at Dusky Hole.
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