River Ave Beach
Both surf and structure fishing available in Point Pleasant, Ocean County
Location
📍 Address: Maxon Ave & River Rd
Get DirectionsAbout This Spot
River Ave Beach offers both shore fishing and structure fishing opportunities in Point Pleasant, Ocean County. This versatile spot allows you to fish the surf or work the structure depending on conditions and target species. Ocean County offers some of the best surf fishing in New Jersey, especially near the inlets. The fall striped bass run (September-December) brings trophy fish within casting distance of shore.
Ocean County features world-class surf fishing, particularly near Barnegat Inlet and Island Beach State Park.
Target Species
Best Times to Fish
Fall run (September-December) is legendary for trophy stripers
How to Fish Here
Techniques
- ✓Fish the surf at dawn, move to structure midday
- ✓Target stripers on the beach, tautog on the rocks
- ✓Match your approach to conditions and tide
- ✓Bluefish blitzes can happen anywhere
Recommended Gear
- •Bring both surf and structure setups
- •Medium-heavy rod for versatility
- •Multiple tackle options
- •Studded boots if working jetties
Gear for Shore Fishing
Essential tackle for your shore trip
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Essential gear for fishing this spot.
Spinning Rod & Reel Combo
Versatile combo for surf and pier fishing.
PENN
Penn Pursuit V Spinning Reel and 7' 2-Piece Fishing RodCombo, Graphite Composite Rod Blank Construction, EVA Handles
“The combo NJ surf-fishing beginners actually keep using two seasons later.”— NJ Shore Guide editors
PENN
Penn Pursuit V Travel Spinning Reel 7' 3-PieceFishing Rod Combo, Graphite Composite Rod Blank Construction, EVA Handles
Tackle Box
Organize lures, hooks, and tackle.
KastKing
KastKing HyperSeal Waterproof Tackle Box, 3600 and 3700 Tackle Trays, Fishing Tackle Box Organizer with Removable Dividers, Lure Box and Terminal Tackle Storage
KastKing
KastKing HyperSeal 3500 Double-Sided Waterproof Fishing Tackle Box – Adjustable Dividers, EVA Foam Jig Storage, Lure & Terminal Tackle Organizer,2 Pack
Fishing Cooler (50qt+)
Keep your catch fresh. 50+ quart for serious fishing.
Coleman
Coleman Marine Cooler with Fully Insulated UV Guard Lid & Body, Keeps Ice for 3+ Days, Great for Boating & Fishing, 52qt/100qt Wheeled/120qt Options
“Holds ice through a full day on a Manasquan or Barnegat charter.”— NJ Shore Guide editors
Igloo
Igloo 70 QT Latitude Marine Ultra White Cooler
Surf Fishing Waders
Stay dry during surf fishing. Neoprene for cold water.
FROGG TOGGS
FROGG TOGGS Men's Amphib Stockingfoot Neoprene Waterproof Fishing Chest Wader for Fishing, Forest Green, Large
FROGG TOGGS
FROGG TOGGS Hellbender Breathable Waterproof Stockingfoot Fishing Chest Wader for Fishing, Slate/Gray, Large
Studded Jetty Boots
Grip on slippery rocks and jetties.
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Book a Charter
Want to go offshore? Charter boats depart from Barnegat Light.
Spring striper run starting
Early season rates - book your trip now
Book a Fishing Charter
Book online through FishingBooker
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish can I catch at River Ave Beach?
River Ave Beach is productive for Striped Bass, Bluefish, Tautog (Blackfish), Fluke (Summer Flounder), Black Sea Bass, Weakfish. Best seasons are spring, summer, fall.
Do I need a fishing license to fish here?
Yes, you need a free NJ Saltwater Registry to fish from shore in New Jersey. Register online at the NJ Fish & Wildlife website.
Should I fish the surf or the structure?
It depends on conditions. Calm days favor structure fishing. Rough surf can push baitfish close to shore, creating action on the beach.
Can I use the same gear for both?
A medium-heavy 8-foot rod can handle both, but dedicated surf and structure setups will perform better.
Quick Info
- Location
- Point Pleasant
- County
- Ocean County
- Access Type
- Versatile Access
- Nearest Port
- Barnegat Light
Ocean County Highlights
- 🎣Island Beach State Park - legendary fall striper run
- 🎣Barnegat Inlet - year-round action
- 🎣LBI beaches - productive surf fishing
Nearby Fishing Spots
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