Slough off the New Jersey coast
The second in a series of four sloughs positioned northeast of Cape May, covering approximately 47 acres. These sloughs run roughly north to south and are best fished as a circuit, moving from one to the next as the tide allows. Fluke are the primary summer target in this slough system; sea bass and weakfish add variety throughout the season. The central position makes this a natural midpoint on a multi-slough day. Bucktail rigs and Gulp tipped with squid are the standard approach. Cape May charter captains regularly work this slough series as a day trip, especially during peak June through August fluke season when fish concentrate in the slough channel.
The surrounding area is characterized by sandy and shelly material as a bottom type.
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 AvailabilityOffshore-ready tackle & gear
Trusted by NJ charter captains
Recommended tackle for Fluke (Summer Flounder) and Weakfish fishing.
Heavy-duty rod for tuna, mahi, and billfish. 30-50lb class.

TRHUNTER

TRHUNTER
Heavy-duty conventional reel for offshore trolling and jigging.
Essential for battling big fish. Reduces fatigue on long fights.

Loomcraft

GAFFER SPORTFISHING
Landing tool for big fish. 3-4 foot handle for boat use.

SANLIKE

SANLIKE
Skirted lures and spreader bars for tuna and mahi.

AGOOL

Narcissus
Keep your catch cold on the ride home. Fits in boat storage.

KRAKEN SUPPLY CO

Buffalo Gear
Essential for toothy fish like wahoo and king mackerel.

Drchoer

TOOTH SHIELD TACKLE
Large, waterproof bag for organizing offshore tackle.

Plano

KastKing
Classic vertical jig for sea bass, cod, and bottom fish.

VMSIXVM

VMSIXVM
Required for many species. Better hookups, easier release.
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Cape May Northeast Slough — Central is known for Fluke (Summer Flounder), Weakfish, Sea Bass.
Cape May Northeast Slough — Central is located 4 nm NE (25 degrees T) from Y"D" buoy The coordinates are taken from the middle point of the 4 spots. The nearest departure point is Cape May Inlet.
Sloughs are underwater valleys that channel water and baitfish, attracting predatory species.
Check recent reports to see what's biting at Cape May Northeast Slough — Central.
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