1 month ago · Updated 2 weeks ago
Atlantic City, located on the southern New Jersey coast, is a key hub for both recreational and commercial fishing. The city’s proximity to reefs, wrecks, and productive back bays provides anglers with a wide range of opportunities throughout the fall season.
Weekly Catches
The catches below cover the last 7 days.
Sea Bass
Inshore action for sea bass has been excellent, with boats sailing from Atlantic City and nearby ports reporting steady catches on local reef sites and wrecks. Anglers are finding sea bass up to 22 inches, often reaching boat limits during charters. Productive depths are typically in the 50–60+ foot range, and double-hook clam rigs and jigs have been especially effective. The bite is described as “lights out,” with plenty of fish to go around, and triggerfish and porgies are frequently mixed in the catch.
- Limits of sea bass to 22 inches reported on inshore reefs and wrecks.
- Effective baits: clam rigs, jigs.
- Triggerfish and porgies also present in these areas.
Striped Bass
The striped bass bite is picking up in the bay waters near Atlantic City, with anglers drifting live spot along sod banks and tidal creeks. Fish up to 28 inches have been reported, and topwater action is increasing, especially around the flats and favorite tidal creeks. The recent temperature drop is expected to further improve the bass action in the coming days.
- Striped bass to 28 inches caught on live spot in bay waters.
- Topwater plugs productive in backwater flats and creeks.
Tautog (Blackfish)
Tautog (blackfish) are a prime target right now, with the best bites coming from the inlet rocks and inshore wrecks. Anglers are using green crabs and sand fleas to entice these structure-oriented fish. Reports indicate a mix of keepers and shorts, with some anglers catching multiple fish per outing at the rocks.
- Best action at inlet rocks and inshore wrecks.
- Effective baits: green crabs, sand fleas.
Triggerfish & Porgies
Triggerfish remain active on local reefs and wrecks, often caught alongside sea bass. Porgies (scup) are also being landed in good numbers, with some “hubcap-sized” fish reported. These species are providing bonus action for anglers targeting bottom fish offshore and nearshore.
- Triggerfish and porgies mixed with sea bass catches on reefs and wrecks.
Bluefish
Small bluefish (snappers and cocktails) are being caught along the surf, with some larger fish up to 22 inches reported offshore and in the bays. Mullet and small lures are the top choices for surf anglers, while chunk baits and jigs are effective offshore.
- Surf: snappers and cocktail blues on mullet and small lures.
- Offshore: blues to 22 inches on chunk baits and jigs.
Kingfish
The kingfish bite continues along the surf, with the best catches coming on small mullet strips, bloodworms, and Fishbites. While not red hot, the action has been steady and dependable, especially with surf temperatures still hovering around 70°F.
- Best baits: small mullet strips, bloodworms, Fishbites.
Weakfish
There have been some better weakfish reports in the Cape May and Fortescue area, with fish up to 23 inches caught on bloodworms and soft plastics. While not directly in Atlantic City, these areas are within reach for local anglers seeking variety.
- Weakfish to 23 inches on bloodworms and soft plastics.
Surf Clams & Ocean Quahogs (Commercial)
Atlantic City’s commercial fleet continues to harvest surf clams and ocean quahogs, which are processed into clam strips and minced clams. These large vessels operate offshore and are a key part of the city’s fishing economy.
- Commercial harvests of surf clams and ocean quahogs ongoing offshore.
Weather & Marine Conditions
Recent weather has featured periods of light wind but lingering ocean swell, especially after passing fronts. Water temperatures in the surf remain around 70°F, supporting a mix of summer and fall species. Offshore conditions have been variable, with some charters tied to the dock during rougher spells, but calmer days have produced excellent bottom fishing and pelagic action.
Tides & Solunar Activity
Anglers are finding the best action for species like striped bass and tautog around tide changes, especially during falling tides in the back bays and at inlet structures. Surf and reef anglers are also timing trips to coincide with moving water for improved bite windows.
Fishing Conditions & Tips
For sea bass and bottom species, focus on reefs and wrecks in 50–80 feet of water using clam rigs, jigs, and double-hook setups. For tautog, target inlet rocks and structure with green crabs or sand fleas. Surf anglers should use small mullet strips or bloodworms for kingfish and bluefish, and keep an eye out for late-season fluke and pompano in the wash. In the bays, drifting live spot or casting topwater plugs can produce striped bass, especially during early morning or evening tide changes.
Regulations & Notices
The sea bass season is open with a 10-fish bag limit at a minimum size of 12.5 inches. Anglers should be aware of ongoing discussions about menhaden management, as future quota reductions may impact forage availability for key predators like striped bass and bluefish. Commercial and recreational fishers are encouraged to stay updated on regulatory changes through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.
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