Where in NJ Are Best Places for Freshwater Fishing?

By Michael Ferguson

Freshwater fishing in New Jersey is a popular outdoor activity for tourists and locals alike. The state has a wide variety of freshwater fishing spots located across the region. Whether it be a lake, river, stream, or pond, New Jersey has something to offer everyone who enjoys fishing.

The best places to go freshwater fishing in New Jersey depend on what kind of fish you’re looking for. Those who are angling for trout might want to head up north to the Delaware River or Lake Hopatcong for some excellent catches. The Musconetcong River also has plenty of trout and smallmouth bass.

Fisherman looking for larger fish will want to check out the Raritan River and the Manasquan River. These rivers have a wide variety of species including largemouth bass, catfish, yellow perch, and carp. The lakes of Monksville Reservoir and Wanaque Reservoir are also great spots for catching some large bass and other varieties of fish.

Saltwater fishermen should head down south to areas like Barnegat Bay or Cape May where they can find plenty of striped bass and other saltwater species such as bluefish, flounder, black drum, tautog and weakfish. The Atlantic Ocean is also nearby where you can find cod, tuna, mahi-mahi and wahoo.

Those looking for something a bit more unique will want to visit Round Valley Reservoir which holds some rare species like walleye and muskellunge (or muskie). It’s also home to paddlefish which have been known to reach over 40 inches in length!

No matter what type of freshwater fishing you prefer there are numerous options located throughout New Jersey that are sure to please any angler. With so many options available it can be difficult choosing where to go but with this guide you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot for your next big catch!

Conclusion: With its abundance of freshwater bodies that hold a variety of fish species from trout in the north all the way down to paddlefish in Round Valley Reservoir in the south, there is no shortage of places to go freshwater fishing in New Jersey! Whether it’s a lake, river or stream fishermen can find their ideal spot no matter what kind of fish they’re looking for!