North Jersey waters from Sandy Hook to Manasquan hold some of the most accessible and productive fishing grounds on the entire coast. With 215 documented grounds including historic wrecks, artificial reefs, and natural structure, anglers departing from Belmar, Point Pleasant, and Shark River have incredible options within a short run.
The North Jersey region stretches from Sandy Hook in the north to Manasquan Inlet in the south, encompassing waters that have been fished for generations. This area benefits from the Hudson Canyon influence, bringing nutrients and pelagic species within reach of small boat anglers. The relatively shallow continental shelf creates concentrated structure that holds both bottom fish and migrating gamefish.
Explore all 215 fishing grounds in the north jersey region. Click any ground for details including depth, species, and coordinates.
North Jersey grounds sit on a gradually sloping continental shelf, with most structure found in 40-120 feet of water. The proximity to New York Harbor and Hudson Canyon creates nutrient-rich waters that support diverse fisheries.
Popular artificial reef with diverse structure attracting sea bass, tautog, and fluke. Heavily fished but consistently productive.
Depth: 60-75 ft
Natural bottom contour that holds baitfish and predators throughout the season. Excellent striper and bluefish action in fall.
Depth: 40-60 ft
Deep hole structure that concentrates fish during temperature changes. Prime spot for trophy sea bass and tog.
Depth: 80-110 ft
Natural rock structure close to shore. Excellent for small boat anglers targeting tog and sea bass.
Depth: 50-70 ft
Stripers migrate through on their way north. Early fluke appear as water warms. Blues arrive in May.
Peak fluke season. Sea bass limits fill quickly. False albacore and bonito appear late summer.
The legendary fall run. Trophy stripers and aggressive bluefish. Tog season opens.
Hardcore tog fishing continues. Limited offshore options due to weather.
Peak fishing season
Weekend charters filling fast - book ahead
Book a charter with captains who know these grounds inside and out. From Belmar and nearby marinas.
Powered by FishingBooker • Secure online booking • Free cancellation on most trips
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Premier charter port with easy inlet access. Home to a large charter fleet targeting all species.
5-15 miles to most grounds
Popular departure point with excellent marina facilities. Quick runs to productive structure.
5-20 miles to most grounds
Smaller inlet with access to nearshore grounds. Good for small boat anglers.
3-12 miles to most grounds
| Species | Peak Season | Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Fluke | June-August | Drifting bucktails with Gulp |
| Sea Bass | May-June, Sep-Dec | Diamond jigs and squid strips |
| Striped Bass | Oct-Nov | Live bunker, trolling |
| Tautog | Oct-Dec | Green crab on structure |
| Bluefish | May-Oct | Metals, trolling spoons |
Book a hotel or rental near Belmar marina for early morning departures. Wake up steps from your charter boat.
Powered by Booking.com • Free cancellation on most bookings
Most North Jersey grounds are 5-20 miles from the major inlets (Belmar, Point Pleasant, Shark River). Many productive spots are within 10 miles, making this region accessible to small boat anglers with modest vessels.
A 20-25 foot center console or walkaround is ideal for North Jersey waters. The relatively short runs and protected nature of many grounds make this region accessible. However, always monitor weather and sea conditions before venturing offshore.
Each season offers different opportunities. Spring brings migrating stripers, summer is peak fluke season, fall offers the legendary striper run plus tog, and winter provides hardcore bottom fishing for tog and cod. Most anglers consider fall (September-November) the prime time.
Yes! North Jersey has several artificial reef sites including Sea Girt Reef, Axel Carlson Reef, and various smaller deployments. These sites attract sea bass, tautog, and other structure-oriented species.
Belmar and Point Pleasant are the primary charter ports, with large fleets offering half-day, full-day, and party boat options. Both ports provide quick access to the best North Jersey structure.
Browse individual fishing grounds with detailed information, GPS coordinates, and species breakdowns.
View All North Jersey Grounds