Perth Amboy to Atlantic Highlands Fishing Report Today 🎣

The waters from Perth Amboy to Atlantic Highlands are transitioning into full fall fishing mode, with a mix of bottom species, migrating predators, and the first signs of the striped bass run as October progresses.

Weekly Catches

The catches below cover the last 7 days.

Sea Bass

Atlantic Highlands and nearby reefs have seen a solid all-day bite for sea bass, with some anglers reporting limits and pool-winning fish up to 3 pounds. The bite has been consistent, though keepers are becoming harder to find as the season winds down. Medium-sized porgies are also mixed in, but the action is tapering off with the approach of rougher weather. Most productive spots have been local reefs and wrecks in 50–60+ feet of water, with anglers using traditional bottom rigs and clam baits.

Porgies

Porgies have been a reliable catch, especially on the first drop in the morning, though the size has been mostly medium with fewer jumbos as the week progressed. The bite has been patchy, with some anglers doing well and others struggling as fish move around with changing conditions.

Striped Bass

While no specific catches were reported in the last 7 days, captains are preparing to shift focus to striped bass as the sea bass season slows. There are signs of life just before recent storms, with bait present in the area, suggesting that the fall striper run could begin any day. Anglers are advised to watch for updates as boats transition to targeting bass with jigs and shads in the back bays and ocean.

Bluefish

Bluefish have been popping in and out of the inlets, with mostly smaller snappers and cocktail blues reported. The classic fall bluefish blitz has not yet materialized, but anglers are hopeful as water temperatures remain favorable and baitfish like mullet begin to move.

Triggerfish

Some triggerfish are still being caught on the deeper reefs and wrecks, mixed in with the sea bass. These are a bonus for bottom anglers working structure in 50–80 feet.

Tautog (Blackfish)

Tautog are starting to show at the inlet rocks, with some keepers reported. The bite has been better on the ocean side than inside the bays, and green crabs or sand fleas fished near riprap are the go-to baits.

Other Species

Kingfish continue to provide steady action along the surf, especially on small mullet strips, bloodworms, or Fishbites. There’s still a chance for a stray pompano as surf temperatures hover around 70°F. Blowfish and spot are tapering off as we move deeper into October.

Weather & Marine Conditions

The past week has seen a mix of rain and wind, with a significant nor’easter expected to impact the area late Saturday into early next week. This has already led to the cancellation of some trips and may mark the end of consistent inshore sea bass fishing for the season. The ocean has been choppy, but calmer days have allowed for productive bottom fishing on the reefs. As the weather deteriorates, expect rougher seas and limited opportunities until conditions settle.

Tides & Solunar Activity

No specific tide or solunar data was retrieved for Perth Amboy to Atlantic Highlands within the last 7 days. Anglers should consult local tide charts for optimal fishing windows, especially around incoming and outgoing tides when targeting striped bass and bluefish in the back bays and inlets.

Fishing Conditions & Tips

With the transition to fall, focus is shifting from bottom species to migratory predators. Sea bass and porgies are still catchable but becoming less reliable; now is the time to switch to jigs and shads for striped bass as they begin to move through the area. Tautog are a solid option at the inlet rocks, especially on green crabs. Surf anglers should target kingfish and watch for bluefish blitzes as mullet schools move along the beaches. Always check the latest regulations before heading out, as seasons and limits can change quickly in the fall.

Regulations & Notices

Sea bass season remains open with a 10-fish bag limit at 12.5 inches. Bluefin tuna season is currently closed, and any caught must be released. The summer flounder (fluke) season has closed as of September 25. There is ongoing discussion about potential new striped bass regulations, including a possible 12% reduction in harvest for 2026, so anglers should stay informed on any changes from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. Always verify the latest rules with New Jersey Fish and Wildlife before fishing.