Top-Rated 5-Hour Inshore Fishing in Barnegat Bay

Reel in the Fun: Half Day on Barnegat Bay

Looking for a slice of Jersey fishing action? CMF Charters has you covered with their half-day trip on Barnegat Bay. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just want to wet a line with the family, this 5-hour adventure puts you right where the fish are biting. We'll cruise up to 10 miles offshore, giving you plenty of chances to land some of the Garden State's most sought-after catches. With an expert captain at the helm, you'll hit the hotspots and learn a thing or two about what makes Barnegat Bay a fisherman's paradise.

What to Expect on the Water

Once you step aboard, you're in for a treat. The captain will get you set up with everything you need - rods, reels, bait, the works. As we motor out of the marina, keep your eyes peeled for ospreys diving or dolphins playing in the wake. The bay's calm waters make for a smooth ride, perfect if you've got kids or folks who aren't sure about their sea legs. We'll stop at a few different spots, giving you the best shot at filling the cooler. The captain knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you're in good hands when it comes to finding where the fish are schooling up.

Fishing Tactics for Success

On this trip, we'll use a mix of techniques to maximize your chances of a good catch. Depending on what's biting, we might do some bottom fishing with squid or clams, or maybe toss out some live bait if the stripers are running. The captain will show you how to work the rod and reel, and give you pointers on setting the hook when you feel that telltale tug. Don't worry if you're new to this - by the end of the trip, you'll be casting like a pro. And if you're already handy with a rod, the captain can share some local insider tips to up your game.

Top Catches This Season

Barnegat Bay is teeming with fish, and what's biting changes with the seasons. In the warmer months, you might hook into some feisty bluefish or tasty fluke. As the water cools down, the striped bass start to run, and boy, do they put up a fight! Weakfish, sea bass, and blackfish are also common catches. The beauty of fishing here is you never know what might end up on the end of your line - could be a monster striper or a scrappy summer flounder. That's what keeps folks coming back trip after trip.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Striped Bass: These are the rock stars of Barnegat Bay. Stripers, as we call 'em, can grow up to 50 pounds or more, though most you'll catch are in the 10-30 pound range. They're smart fish and put up one heck of a fight. Spring and fall are prime times to target them, especially around dawn and dusk. When you feel that first hit from a big striper, you'll be hooked for life.

Bluefish: Blues are the brawlers of the bay. These guys are aggressive feeders and will hit just about anything that moves. They're known for their sharp teeth and powerful runs. Blues usually show up in the late spring and stick around through fall. They're great for anglers who want non-stop action - when a school of blues moves in, it's like hitting the jackpot.

Fluke (Summer Flounder): These flatfish are masters of camouflage and taste great on the dinner table. Fluke season typically runs from May to September. They like to hang out on the sandy bottom, so we'll drift along likely spots and bounce our bait off the floor. Landing a big 'doormat' fluke is always a highlight of any trip.

Weakfish: Also known as sea trout, these fish get their name from their soft mouths - not because they're pushovers on the line. They've got beautiful spotted patterns and put up a decent fight. Weakfish are most active in the spring and fall, and they're a favorite for light tackle enthusiasts.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing Barnegat Bay that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of never knowing what you'll catch next. Or the way the sun paints the sky as it sets over the water. Could be the satisfaction of learning new techniques from a captain who's fished these waters for decades. Whatever it is, one trip is rarely enough. Regulars tell us they love how each season brings new opportunities, from the spring run of stripers to the fall blitz of blues. And let's be honest - there's nothing quite like the taste of fish you caught yourself, grilled up fresh that evening.

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to get out on the water and see what's biting? This half-day trip with CMF Charters is the perfect way to experience the best of Barnegat Bay fishing. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to the joys of angling, or you're after that trophy catch to brag about, this trip delivers. With room for up to 5 guests, it's ideal for families or a group of friends. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a light jacket - the weather can change quickly out on the bay. The boat's got everything else you need, from rods and reels to expert guidance. So what are you waiting for? The fish are out there, and they're not going to catch themselves. Book your spot now and get ready for a day of reeling in memories on beautiful Barnegat Bay. Trust us, once you've felt the tug of a big one on your line, you'll be planning your next trip before you even hit the dock.