New Jersey
Fishing

A resident fishing license in New Jersey costs $23 a year and a non-resident license $34, as of May 2026. This guide lists 5 top species (Striped bass, Largemouth bass, Trout (stocked), Bluefish, Flounder) and 4 notable waters, led by Delaware River and Sandy Hook Bay. New Jersey has saltwater access and no notable wild trout fishery; it earns a B- grade here, shared with 6 other states.

New Jersey fishing benefits from geography. The Delaware River on the western border holds American shad in spring, smallmouth bass in summer, and walleye year-round. Round Valley Reservoir holds lake trout and rainbow trout in cold, deep water — it is the premier trout lake in the state. The Raritan River and the Musconetcong River in the northern part of the state hold wild brown trout in regulated sections.

The coast is the main event. Sandy Hook Bay, Barnegat Bay, and Delaware Bay all produce striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and sea bass. The fall striper migration from October through December can be excellent from the surf.

Resident licenses cost $23. New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states, and fishing pressure is real on accessible water. The best freshwater fishing happens on weekdays. The surf and bay fishing is democratic and accessible — a rod, a bucket, and a sandbar can produce excellent striped bass fishing in October without a boat.

New Jersey's Atlantic coast and Sandy Hook Bay produce excellent striped bass fishing. Round Valley Reservoir is the state's deepest lake and holds trophy lake trout. The Delaware River produces walleye and smallmouth bass.

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