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When you’re looking for a guide to NJ bass fishing, you’re probably after a quick round up of the best places. At least that’s what we’re looking for, which is why we’ve put together a short guide to some of the best fishing spots in New Jersey.
As you know, New Jersey is home to numerous bodies of water, which can make deciding where to fish a little daunting. But these are just a few of the places we think you need to check out. Just remember to grab your NJ fishing license before you head out.
Why New Jersey?
Types Of Bass
New Jersey is home to many different species of fish, including sunfish, catfish and pickerel. But just like in many states across the country, bass can be one of the most popular targets for anglers, probably due to the strong availability.
Largemouth bass can be found all across New Jersey in just about every freshwater lake, river and pond. This can make the Garden State a great place to fish, whether you’re looking for bass or a combination of species.
Although not as common as largemouth bass, you can also find smallmouth bass and hybrid bass in some areas. And if you’re fishing off the coast, you could also have a shot at catching striped bass.
Outdoor Recreation
New Jersey isn’t called the Garden State for nothing. There are dozens of state parks and forests around New Jersey, which can make getting out in the fresh air more convenient. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike or get out on the water, you’ll probably find a park that suits your outdoor activities.
Many of these parks can also be great if you’re bringing kids along, with playgrounds and other facilities that can make the trip more fun for them.
The state also has beautiful beaches, where you can take a stroll, swim (depending on the season), fish or take a boat out.
And if you’re more of a gambler, you could always head to Atlantic City to try your luck in the casinos after a day in the great outdoors.
5 Places To Go Bass Fishing Around NJ
1: Round Valley Reservoir
Round Valley Reservoir can be a great spot if you’re looking to catch a variety of species, as there are 19 different species that inhabit the reservoir. The reservoir has crystal clear water and is home to both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Round Valley Recreation Area offers a public boat launch as well as fishing from the shore and camping. The reservoir holds several state records, including the records for largest smallmouth bass and largest lake trout.
2: Lake Assunpink
Lake Assunpink can be a popular spot for bass fishing in New Jersey, with largemouth bass and hybrid striped bass calling the lake their home. These bass species are also stocked in the lake, along with catfish.
The lake lies within the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area and features a boat launch and plenty of areas where you can fish from the banks. The lake can be a great place for topwater fishing during the summer months because of the high levels of vegetation and shallow water.
3: Manasquan Reservoir
Manasquan Reservoir is stocked with several species of fish, including smallmouth, largemouth and hybrid striped bass. It’s open all year round and can also be used for ice fishing in the winter if the weather allows.
The reservoir features a boat ramp at the visitor center if you want to take a kayak or boat onto the water and there are also kayak and canoe rentals on site. There are several spots around the reservoir where you can fish from the shore, such as at the visitor center, where there is also a parking lot, and at Chestnut Point on the western banks.
> Kayaking places in New Jersey
4: Spruce Run Reservoir
Spruce Run Reservoir can be a great place if you’re looking to target hybrid striped bass, as this is considered one of the best hybrid striped bass waters in New Jersey. But you can also find largemouth bass and a smaller number of smallmouth bass, as well as many other species.
The Spruce Run Recreation Area offers a boat launch and boat rentals, as well as other outdoor recreational facilities and a campground. There are also opportunities within the state park for shore fishing.
5: Farrington Lake
Farrington Lake is known for its fantastic largemouth bass fishing, as well as good fishing opportunities for other species, including pike.
It’s a long, narrow and shallow lake, with a maximum depth of 12 feet. There are several launch ramps around the lake where you can set off in your kayak or canoe. Gasoline motors are not allowed on the lake, which can make it a little quieter on the water and can minimize disruption if you’re kayak fishing.
In Conclusion
New Jersey seems to have endless fishing opportunities with a wide range of species to be found, which can make it an angler’s dream destination.
While you may not catch the monster sized bass you might find in Florida or Texas, there are plenty of places within easy reach of towns and cities where you can enjoy a great day of bass fishing.
Have you got a favorite New Jersey bass fishing lake? Tell us about it and remember to share this with your fellow anglers to keep them in the loop. We also have a fishing near me map to give you more ideas on where to go.