South Shoal
Reef off the New Jersey coast
Location
About This Ground
Small lump located 2.5 nautical miles NE ( 85 degrees T) from the SE corner the Cape May Reef. From 30 feet deep line to 28 feet deep. Looks like an extension of the 5 fathom bank due to its placment a little bit to its South Work the reef edges where predators ambush baitfish.
The surrounding area is make up of sandy and shelly material
Target Species
Best Times to Fish
Click a species row to see fishing methods, regulations, and tips.
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluefish | Off | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Peak | Good | Off | Off |
| 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 |
| Tautog (Blackfish) | Off | Off | Good | Peak | Peak | Off | Off | Off | Off | Peak | Peak | Good |
Charters to Fish South Shoal
Most charters depart from Barnegat Light - Prime bay fishing access
The Gambler
point-pleasant-beach
- ✓Family operation since 1949
- ✓Widest party boat in class
Miss Chris Boats
Cape May
- ✓Three daily departure times
- ✓Air-conditioned 80-foot vessel
Highroller Fishing
Atlantic City
- ✓No Seasick Guarantee
- ✓Only back bay party boat in AC
Compare all fluke charters and book online
Check AvailabilityGear for Offshore Fishing
Offshore-ready tackle & gear
Trusted by NJ charter captains
Essential gear for fishing this ground.
Offshore Trolling Rod
Heavy-duty rod for tuna, mahi, and billfish. 30-50lb class.
Conventional Reel (30-50 class)
Heavy-duty conventional reel for offshore trolling and jigging.
Fighting Belt & Harness
Essential for battling big fish. Reduces fatigue on long fights.
Gaff Hook
Landing tool for big fish. 3-4 foot handle for boat use.
Trolling Lures & Spreader Bars
Skirted lures and spreader bars for tuna and mahi.
Insulated Fish Bag
Keep your catch cold on the ride home. Fits in boat storage.
Wire Leaders
Essential for toothy fish like wahoo and king mackerel.
Offshore Tackle Bag
Large, waterproof bag for organizing offshore tackle.
Diamond Jigs
Classic vertical jig for sea bass, cod, and bottom fish.
Circle Hooks (Offshore)
Required for many species. Better hookups, easier release.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change. Full disclosure
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can I catch at South Shoal?
South Shoal is known for Fluke (Summer Flounder), Sea Bass, Tautog, Bluefish.
How do I get to South Shoal?
South Shoal is located 2.5 nm NE ( 85 degrees T) from the SE corner the Cape May Reef. The nearest departure point is Hereford Inlet.
What makes South Shoal a good fishing spot?
Reef structures provide habitat for a variety of species. Artificial reefs are regularly stocked and monitored by NJ Fish & Wildlife.
Quick Info
- Type
- Reef
- Nearest Inlet
- Hereford Inlet
- Location
- 2.5 nm NE ( 85 degrees T) from the SE corner the Cape May Reef
- Size
- 223 acres
Similar Species
Fishing Reports
Check recent reports to see what's biting at South Shoal.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.
Learn more →