New to area.

[GRUNT]

Hey guys, Moved to Lakewood and would like to know about fishing both fresh and salt water spots. I like light tackle and shore access, sold boat. I have seen some areas to fish, but nowhere to park truck. I am retired, Viet Nam vet and have time to explore. Any help would be appreciated.

[Bucksnbows]

Welcome. Most of the NJ shore is open to fishing. The good news is that the best fishing is not during the summer months when our beaches are packed with beachgoers. Find some of your local tackle shops down there and they will be able to point you in the right direction.

 

As for freshwater fishing, we just about have it all. Both warm water and cold water fish. Spend some time on the Division's website and you'll get some good info for starters:

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/fishing_fresh.htm

 

You will need to register (free) for a saltwater license and buy a freshwater license. You'll also need a trout stamp if you fish for trout.

[Chris]

In late April, early May hit the banks of the Manasquan river for 2-5 pound blues. Ava007 with a red tube tail will kill it. The blues are feeding almost soley on shrimp that time of year and they are delicous.

If I am on the dog beach in Manasquan I use a 7'6" GLoomis mag lite with a Boca 30 spooled with 8lb power pro. 30lb leader to the jig and I have an absolute blast. Some of the other accesible spots I just a 7ft medium or med-heavy because there are pilings close by and sometimes you need to horse them in. I use 10lb power pro, sometimes a 40lb leader.

Lots of fun

[BowhunterNJ]

Welcome to the forum and also to the Lakewood area!

 

Freshwater wise, the Manasquan reservoir isn't far from you and usually has some pretty good fishing, even from shore...at least it was when I used to fish it years ago, may have changed. I do know some guys that fish it from a boat and have done very well bass fishing. If you like trout fishing, the Manasquan river gets stocked well with trout come spring and fall. Spring is the heavier stocking period, but a ton of spots along the Manasquan that will keep you busy! The Toms River and Metedeconk are two other smaller streams that are also stocked in those same periods, but not as well.

 

Saltwater wise, lots of options: Shark River inlet, either ocean front or all through the river is good...a number of spots that are fishable from shore. Likewise with the Manasquan and Point Pleasant inlet...a lot of people fish from both sides along the inlet and if you explore the back bay areas, some back streets, you'll find some nice hidden spots. The Point Pleasant canal is another good area guys like to fish.

 

 

Good luck, catch em up and let us know how you do!