1 month ago · Updated 5 days ago
Little Egg Harbor, NJ sits just north of the Mullica River and is a gateway to productive back bays, inlets, and surf along the southern end of Long Beach Island. Recent weather has been challenging, but anglers have found success during breaks in the conditions, with several notable catches reported in the area.
Weekly Catches
The catches below cover the last 7 days.
Kingfish
Multiple kingfish have been weighed in from the surf near Holgate and surrounding beaches. Anglers are reporting success using bloodworms, fishbites, and mullet as bait, with fish up to 14.5" and 1.12 pounds landed. The bite remains steady, especially during calmer surf conditions.
- 14.5" kingfish, 1.12 lbs, caught in Holgate on mullet
- 13 7/8" kingfish, 0.92 lbs, on bloodworms
- 14 1/4" kingfish, 0.96 lbs, on bloodworms and fishbites
Fluke
The fluke season is closing, but anglers are still catching quality fish in the surf and bay. Notable weigh-ins include fish up to 3.5 pounds and 21 inches, with gulp, mullet, and peanut bunker producing bites. The Holgate area has been a hotspot for late-season fluke action.
- 3.5 lb, 21" fluke caught in Holgate on gulp
- 2.76 lb, 18 3/4" fluke on mullet
- 2.78 lb, 19.5" fluke on a jig
- 2.3 lb, 18 5/8" fluke on peanut bunker
Bluefish
Bluefish continue to provide action in the surf and inlet areas. Recent catches include fish up to 2.98 pounds and 20.5 inches, with mullet being a top bait. The bite has been consistent, especially during periods of calmer water.
- 2.98 lb, 20.5" bluefish on mullet
Tautog (Blackfish)
The tautog (blackfish) bite has turned on with the recent drop in bay water temperatures to the low 60s. Anglers fishing the jetties and rocky structure are catching good numbers, including keepers up to 22" and over 5 pounds. Green crabs are the preferred bait, and the best action has been reported during late afternoon hours.
- 22" tautog, over 5 lbs, caught on green crab
- Multiple keepers and high catch rates (20+ fish per angler) reported from jetties
Striped Bass
The striped bass run is just beginning to spark in the bayside channels, sod banks, and bridges as water temperatures cool. While no large surf-side catches have been reported yet, anglers are anticipating increased activity in the coming weeks. Live spot, sandworms, and casting lures are being used to target early arrivals.
Other Species
Smaller blowfish and occasional pompano have been caught in the bay and surf, though pompano are expected to exit the area soon as temperatures drop. Sea bass are reported to be stacking on offshore structure in 70-90 feet of water, with the season open for those able to get out when weather allows.
Weather & Marine Conditions
A recent multi-day nor'easter brought flooding and powerful swells to the region, limiting fishable days. As conditions improve, the bay is calming with water temperatures reported in the mid-60s. Anglers should watch for windows of stable weather, as these have produced the best catches.
Tides & Solunar Activity
Recent tide cycles have featured low tides in the late morning and late evening, with high tides in the early morning and late afternoon. These cycles are favorable for targeting fluke and kingfish in the surf and tautog around structure during moving water.
Fishing Conditions & Tips
With bay water temperatures dropping to the golden 60º mark, tautog and striped bass activity is increasing. Anglers are advised to use green crabs for tautog on jetties and rocky areas, and to target striped bass in bayside channels and bridges with live spot, sandworms, or casting lures. For surf fishing, bloodworms, fishbites, and mullet remain top choices for kingfish and bluefish. Offshore trips for sea bass and yellowfin tuna are possible when weather allows, with chunking and live bait producing results.
Regulations & Notices
The last day for fluke season is Thursday, September 25th. Sea bass season is open, and anglers are reminded to check current size and bag limits before heading out. New ecosystem-based management measures for menhaden are under review, which may impact future forage availability for striped bass and other predators. Always consult the latest state regulations for up-to-date rules on all species.
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Little Egg Harbor, NJ
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