Lump off the New Jersey coast
The Hook is a curved bottom feature in NJ offshore waters that creates productive current breaks and baitfish concentrations. The distinctive shape functions like a fish trap during tidal movement, drawing in bluefish, bonito, and sea bass to feed in the compressed current. Charter boats from the NJ coast regularly include this stop on multi-ground offshore runs.
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
Compare all tuna charters and book online
Check AvailabilityOffshore tackle for the canyons
Trusted by NJ charter captains
Recommended tackle for Tuna and Bluefish fishing.
50-class conventional combo for tuna trolling at the Hudson Canyon.
Heavy live-bait rod for chunking yellowfin off the Mud Hole.
4-8 oz slow-pitch and speed jigs for tuna and offshore bottom.

Ghanneey

Jiatai Fishing
Tuna trolling spreader bars. Short side, long side rigging-ready.

BLUEWING

BLUEWING
Padded gimbal belt + back harness for the long fight on offshore tuna.

GAFFER SPORTFISHING

GAFFER SPORTFISHING
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change. Full disclosure
The Hook is known for Tuna, Bluefish, Bonito, False Albacore, Sea Bass.
Lumps are elevated bottom features that concentrate fish. They are productive for both bottom fishing and trolling.
Check recent reports to see what's biting at The Hook.
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 →