Reef off the New Jersey coast
A rectangular area, probably a little biger than Sandy Hook Reef but with the same shape and placed just N of it. Oriented from NW to SE. Work the reef edges where predators ambush baitfish.
The surrounding area is characterized with sandy material as a bottom type and some obstructions on it.
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 |
Most charters depart from point-pleasant-beach - Beach blitz proximity
point-pleasant-beach
Cape May
Atlantic City
Compare all bluefish charters and book online
Check AvailabilityInshore tackle for back-bay and jetty
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Recommended tackle for Bluefish and Striped Bass fishing.
Medium-power 7 ft rod + 3000-class reel. Stripers, fluke, and weakies.

PENN
“The combo NJ surf-fishing beginners actually keep using two seasons later.”— Jersey Shore Guide editors

PENN
1/2 to 2 oz bucktails for fluking the channels and bridge pilings.
Topwater plugs for blitzing stripers at sunrise off the inlet.

JOGFFDE

Dr.Fish
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.
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Smith Spot is known for Bluefish, Striped Bass.
Smith Spot is accessible from Sandy Hook. 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 Smith Spot.
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