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Fishing in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
 Point
Pleasant Beach NJ offers some of the best and most diverse fishing
year round. Being located on the central Jersey Shore gives the angler
a distinct advantage. Due to the convergence of the Hudson River Flow
and the Delaware River Flow, the area can potentially out produce
either single area for a variety of species. In addition to these
two watersheds, is the Gulf Stream. During the year, game fish and
many tropical species are found within reach. Who says you have to
travel thousands of miles to land "The Big One"?
Shore Fishing Areas: Anglers are attracted to Point Pleasant
Beach because of the ease and abundance of shore fishing opportunities.
Surf Fishing, The Manasqaun Inlet Wall, The Manasqaun River, The
Canal, and the upper Barnegat Bay are either in town or close by.
 Manasquan
Inlet "The Wall." By far the most popular of areas to
fish. This area produces fish year round as it connects the Atlantic
to the Manasquan River. Parking (metered) is found right at the
inlet. There are public bathrooms on the eastern side. Stop by Alex's
Bait and Tackle (9 Inlet Drive) or give the owner Marc
and e-mail for specific inquiry.
 Manaquan
River - As you travel west from the inlet along Broadway,
you are parallel to the Manasquan River. Anglers will find a place
to fish at Gull Island Park. This is a small area across from the
7-11. Scuba Diving is to the left and fishing to the right.
The Surf - All along the coastline, many anglers
come to fish for Bluefish, Striped Bass, Fluke, Weakfish, and a
variety of other species. At the northern end of town, where the
inlet meets the Atlantic is an area known as "The Pocket." This
area is a part of a private beach (west of the high tide line.)
Entrance is typically permitted by the owner except during hours
that the beach is open and guarded (Day- Memorial Day to Labor Day.)
Head south and you will find "The Pier." The lights from the establishment
can attract fish to shoreline here. Continue south and you will
find another access point right across from the Dunes Motel. The
entrance is marked by a small blue sign (easily overlooked) between
the newer homes built on what was Paradise Beach. This area is free
and is public access east of the high water line.
Pt. Boro - The neighboring town of Point Pleasant
Boro has nearby opportunities as well. Next to the Point Pleasant
Hospital is a fishing/crabbing dock. The Canal is another popular
fishing area. All along its banks are areas where fishermen go to
catch a variety of species. This canal connects the Manasquan River
to the upper Barnegat Bay. There are also two public boat ramps
(one near the State Police Barracks, and the other at the southern
entrance.)
Other - The Barnegat bay is often used for crabbing.
There is a small park on Rt. 35 South about 4 miles from town. Here
you will be able to fish for snapper blues and crab while your kids
play on the swings! August is the best time!
Small Boat - You are bound to see fluke, flounder,
crabs, and weakfish being caught (seasonal) around the area. Fishing
in the upper Barnegat around the Mantalooking Bridge, The buoy 10
(canal entrance) area, and the Manasquan River are all accessible
within a short distance from the public boat ramps of Pt. Boro.
These areas are hot spots at specific times of the season!
Ocean - Year round, both commercial and recreational
fishing boats sail from Manasquan Inlet. The offshore grounds produce
tuna, albacore, and a variety of game fish. Expect to pay over $200
dollars on a party boat, and $1500-$2500 for a private small group
charter (to six). The inshore grounds can be fished for as little
as $20-$40 on a party boat and $300 to $800 on a private charter.
Season and species sought will dictate the price and sailing schedule.
Bluefish, Fluke, Weakfish, Striped Bass, Blackfish, Sea Bass, Cod,
Ling, Tuna, Shark, and literally hundreds more are caught each year!
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