Bluefish & Ling Fishing on the New Jersey Shore

New Jersey has 127 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.

Although New Jersey is one of the smallest states, the Atlantic coast offers anglers the chance to catch species like bluefish and ling. Bluefish are one of the most abundant game fish along the shores, while ling is a favorite among winter anglers. You can find ling in the Atlantic Highlands, Point Pleasant, Belmar and Brielle.

New Jersey Shore

A variety of fishing is available year-round in the coastal waters of New Jersey. Ling and bluefish are found in the area's many bays, beaches and marinas. The state has 83 miles of bayshores and 127 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline spanning from Raritan Bay, Sandy Hook, Cape May and up to Delaware Bay. Guided fishing trips specialize in bluefish and ling.

Bluefish

Bluefish is characterized by the blue or greenish blue color on its back as well as its silvery sides and is found all along the state's coast. Local anglers use the jigging method and bait casting to catch bluefish. Bluefish is one of the most abundant fish in the New Jersey shores and are known to be a challenging game fish to catch.

Ling

Ling is one of the most popular game fish in the coast especially during the colder months. According to the "Mid-Atlantic Game & Fish Magazine," ling are the mainstay of New Jersey's winter fishery. Ling also is delicious, making it a popular game fish. Many fishing party boats in New Jersey Shore offer guided trips for ling fishing.

Possession Limits

Bluefish may be fished in the New Jersey shore all year with a daily harvest or possession limit of 15. No minimum size is required. Likewise, ling may be fished year-round with no possession and size limits.

License

A fishing license for recreational surf casting, bay fishing or deep sea fishing for bluefish and ling in New Jersey saltwaters is not required. The state does not require a general marine fishing license, but a variety of licenses and permits are required for clamming, crabbing and commercial saltwater fishing according to the N.J. Division of Fish and Wildlife.

References

• New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife: Marine Licenses and Permits
• New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife: Recreational Minimum Size, Possession Limits and Seasons
• Marine Issue of the Fish and Wildlife Digest 2009
• Mid-Atlantic Game and Fish: New Jersey Ling