1 month ago · Updated 5 days ago
Fortescue, located on the Delaware Bay in southern New Jersey, is a classic small fishing port known for its productive inshore and bay fisheries. Recent weather has impacted angler activity, but targeted efforts continue to yield results for those venturing out.
Weekly Catches
No verified catches in the last 7 days; the catches below cover the last 15 days.
Blue Crab
Crabbing remains a highlight in the Fortescue area, with consistent action reported for those setting traps near Higbee’s. While no exceptionally large specimens were noted, the volume has been impressive for mid-October.
- One outing yielded 97 blue crabs measuring 5 inches and up, using 24 traps baited with necks.
- Most crabs were keeper size, though no “huge” ones were landed.
Bluefish
Recent trips aboard local headboats, including the Miss Fortescue, have produced steady catches of small bluefish with occasional larger individuals mixed in. These fish have been active around the jetties and inshore waters.
- Anglers reported “lots of small bluefish” and a few bigger ones making it into the coolers.
Weakfish
Weakfish have made a showing in the area, with several caught during recent headboat outings. While not in large numbers, their presence is a positive sign for fall fishing.
- “A few weakfish” were landed alongside bluefish and kingfish on recent trips.
Kingfish
Kingfish continue to be part of the mixed bag for Fortescue anglers, especially those fishing from boats targeting a variety of bottom species.
- Recent catches included “a few kingfish” along with bluefish and weakfish.
Rabbitfish
Uncommonly, rabbitfish have been reported in the catch, adding an interesting twist to the typical fall mix in the bay.
- One trip noted “around a dozen rabbitfish” caught, a notable bycatch for the area.
Tautog (Blackfish)
Pre-storm fishing was “excellent for toggers off the jetties and around the bridges” in the Cape May and Fortescue area. The bite has remained solid at the inlet jetties, with green crabs being the top bait.
- Fish up to 23 inches have been reported at the jetties, with action improving after the recent blow.
- Green crabs are the most effective bait for tautog at this time.
Striped Bass
Despite challenging weather, striped bass have been cooperative in the backwaters and tidal creeks near Fortescue. Cooler bay temperatures have triggered better activity, especially on topwater plugs.
- Bay anglers have found success with topwater plugs in the creeks and marshes.
- Some striped bass have been caught to 27 inches in the region’s tidal creeks.
Sea Bass
Bottom fishing on the reefs near Fortescue has produced “excellent numbers of sea bass” in depths up to 100 feet prior to the recent storm. The bite is expected to rebound as conditions stabilize.
- Quick limits of sea bass to 3 pounds were reported at nearby reef sites.
Weather & Marine Conditions
Recent nor’easter conditions brought rough seas—up to 13 feet—and heavy winds, leading to reduced angler participation and some boats staying docked. The storm stirred up the bay and ocean, dropping water temperatures by nearly 5 degrees and introducing debris and turbidity. As of this week, the wind is easing, and the first half of the weekend is forecast to be favorable for inshore and reef fishing. Anglers are advised to monitor marine forecasts closely, as lingering swells and currents may still impact safety and catch rates.
Tides & Solunar Activity
Fortescue Creek is experiencing large tidal swings, with tidal coefficients recently reaching 113, indicating strong currents and pronounced high and low tides. These conditions can enhance fish movement and feeding activity, especially for species like striped bass and tautog that respond to current changes. Anglers should plan trips around peak tidal movements for the best results.
Fishing Conditions & Tips
With water clarity still recovering from the storm, focus on fishing structure—such as jetties and bridges—where species like tautog and sea bass congregate. Use green crabs for tautog and target early morning or late evening for striped bass on topwater plugs. For crabbing, continue setting traps near Higbee’s and use fresh bait for best results. As the bay settles, expect bottom fishing for sea bass and mixed species to improve steadily.
Regulations & Notices
Anglers are reminded to review current New Jersey saltwater fishing regulations before heading out, as seasonal closures and size limits may apply to species like sea bass, tautog, and striped bass. No new emergency regulations or closures affecting Fortescue have been announced in the past two weeks. Always check for updates from NJDEP Fish & Wildlife prior to your trip.
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