Ocean City NJ Fishing Guide

Ocean City's location between the Atlantic Ocean and the back bays makes it a premier fishing destination. Whether you prefer deep-sea charter fishing, surf casting, or relaxed bay fishing, you'll find excellent opportunities here.

License Information:
- No license required for saltwater fishing in New Jersey!
- Free registry required for shore/pier fishing (register at NJ Fish & Wildlife)

Deep Sea Fishing: Charter boats depart from Ocean City and nearby marinas for offshore fishing:

Target Species:
- Tuna (bluefin, yellowfin)
- Mahi-mahi (dolphin fish)
- Marlin and shark (catch and release)
- Sea bass and flounder
- Bluefish and striped bass

What's Included:
- Captain and crew
- Fishing equipment and bait
- Fish cleaning and packaging
- Coolers for your catch

Tips:
- Book early during peak season
- Bring seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness
- Half-day trips are good for beginners
- Full-day or overnight trips reach deeper waters

Surf fishing from Ocean City's beaches can be productive, especially at dawn and dusk:

Target Species:
- Striped bass (spring and fall)
- Bluefish (summer)
- Weakfish
- Kingfish
- Flounder

Best Spots:
- North End near Corson's Inlet
- South End beaches
- Jetties and rock structures

Equipment:
- 9-12 foot surf rod
- Spinning reel with 15-20 lb line
- Sand spikes to hold rods
- Waders (optional but helpful)
- Bait: bunker, clams, bloodworms

The back bays and inlets offer excellent fishing opportunities:

Popular Spots:
- Corson's Inlet
- Great Egg Harbor Bay
- Bridges and bulkheads
- Public piers and docks

Target Species:
- Flounder (fluke)
- Weakfish
- Striped bass
- Crabs

Methods:
- Bottom fishing with bait
- Jigging
- Crabbing with traps or lines

Advantages:
- Calmer waters
- Accessible from shore
- Good for families and beginners

Blue crab fishing is a favorite family activity in Ocean City:

Where to Crab:
- Back bay areas
- Docks and bulkheads
- Marshy areas at low tide

Methods:
- Crab traps
- Hand lines with chicken necks
- Crab rings
- Dip nets

Regulations:
- Minimum size limits apply
- Basket limits in effect
- Check current regulations

Tips:
- Best crabbing at incoming tide
- Use chicken necks or bunker as bait
- Bring a cooler with ice for your catch
- Great activity for kids