Reef off the New Jersey coast
Rock Pile is a rocky ledge or hard-bottom feature in NJ waters near Shark River. The ledge structure creates excellent habitat for tautog and sea bass, which hold tight to the rocks year-round. Striped bass and bluefish work the current breaks along the edge in spring and fall. Local captains fish this structure with bait and jigs, particularly during the tautog season.
Click a species row to see fishing methods, regulations, and tips.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowfin & Bluefin Tuna | Off | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off |
| Bluefish | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off |
| Black Sea Bass | Off | Off | Off | Off | Peak | Peak | Good | Good | Peak | Peak | Good | Off |
| Bonito & False Albacore | Off | Off | Off | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off |
Most charters depart from Belmar - Closest to offshore canyons
Atlantic City
Belmar
Belmar
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Check AvailabilityRock Pile is known for Tuna, Bluefish, Bonito, False Albacore, Sea Bass.
Rock Pile is accessible from Shark River. Check with local charter captains for precise navigation coordinates.
Reef structures provide habitat for a variety of species. Artificial reefs are regularly stocked and monitored by NJ Fish & Wildlife.
Check recent reports to see what's biting at Rock Pile.
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