The bite is ON in Atlantic City waters! Flounder are hitting hard with keepers ranging 3-8 pounds, sheepshead to 7 pounds are crushing sand fleas under local bridges, and the offshore yellowfin tuna action remains red-hot at the canyons. Water temperatures holding at 75°F have the entire fishery fired up from the back bays to 60 miles out.
Today's Atlantic city fishing report today brings excellent news: incoming tides are producing limits of summer flounder in Absecon Bay channels, while the jetties are loaded with spot, croaker, and kingfish perfect for the dinner table. Night anglers are finding quality striped bass and weakfish around structure. Here's everything you need to know to get in on the action.
This comprehensive report covers current conditions and water temperatures, what's biting throughout the region, proven hot spots with GPS coordinates, and the baits producing best right now. We'll also share exclusive tips from local captains, updated regulations, and your 7-day fishing forecast. Whether you're targeting doormat fluke or planning an offshore adventure, we've got you covered.
Today's Atlantic City Fishing Report - Current Conditions
The Atlantic City fishing scene is experiencing ideal summer conditions that have both inshore and offshore species feeding aggressively. Understanding current conditions is crucial for maximizing your success on the water.
Water Temperature & Weather Impact
Current water temperatures are holding steady at 75°F in the ocean and 77-79°F in the back bays, creating perfect conditions for our summer fishery. These temperatures have flounder, striped bass, and weakfish actively feeding throughout the day. The warm water has also triggered an excellent sheepshead bite around bridge pilings and jetty rocks.
Morning fog has been burning off by 8 AM, followed by light southwest winds 5-10 knots - ideal for both boat and shore fishing. Afternoon sea breezes typically kick in around 2 PM, making early morning and evening prime windows. The stable weather pattern forecast through the week means consistent fishing conditions ahead.
Tide Information for Absecon Inlet
Today's tide schedule for the Absecon inlet fishing report shows high tide at 8:51 AM and 9:15 PM, with lows at 2:42 AM and 3:08 PM. The incoming tide starting 3 hours before high has been producing the most consistent flounder action. Current flow reaches maximum velocity 2 hours after the tide change.
Strong full moon tides this week are creating excellent water movement through the inlet and back bay channels. This increased flow is positioning baitfish and predators in predictable locations. Focus efforts during the slower current periods around tide changes for easier presentations.
Best Fishing Times Today
Based on current conditions and solunar tables, peak fishing windows occur from 5:30-8:30 AM and 6:00-9:00 PM. The morning bite coincides perfectly with the incoming tide, while evening action peaks as the sun sets during the outgoing flow.
These prime periods align with major solunar activity, increasing your chances of connecting with quality fish. Between these windows, target shaded structure and deeper channels where fish seek refuge from the midday sun.
What's Biting Now - Species Report Card
Atlantic City waters are producing an incredible variety of species right now. From the southern nj fishing reports flooding in, this is shaping up as one of the best summers in recent memory. Here's your detailed breakdown of what's hitting and where to find them.
Inshore Species Status
Flounder (Summer Flounder/Fluke) are the stars of the show with keepers from 18-24 inches common and fish to 8 pounds being weighed at local tackle shops. The back bays are producing better than usual for late July, bucking the typical offshore migration pattern. Live minnows and 4-6 inch Gulp baits in white or chartreuse are top producers.
Striped Bass action has shifted to nighttime hours with keeper slot fish (28-38 inches) and bonus tag fish being caught on live eels and bunker chunks. The new jersey striper fishing report indicates best action around inlet jetties and bridge shadows. Circle hooks are mandatory when using bait - check current NJ regulations for complete rules.
Weakfish are making a strong comeback with fish 2-5 pounds common and occasional 8-pounders reported. Pink and white bucktails tipped with Gulp shrimp or live minnows work best during moving tides. Target channel edges and drop-offs near structure.
Bottom fishing remains excellent with jumbo croaker to 14 inches, spot perfect for flounder bait or the frying pan, and kingfish (northern whiting) providing non-stop action. Small hooks (6-8) with bloodworm or Fishbites are deadly. These tasty fish make understanding how to hold bottom fish properly important for safe handling.
Bridge & Structure Species
Sheepshead fishing has been exceptional with fish to 7 pounds caught around bridge pilings and jetty rocks. Sand fleas and fiddler crabs fished tight to structure on light tackle produce best. The incoming tide during early morning provides ideal conditions.
Tautog (Blackfish) are hitting despite being out of season - practice catch and release only. These bottom feeder fish are excellent practice for when season reopens. Green crabs remain the top bait choice.
Triggerfish numbers are increasing weekly with fish to 5 pounds mixed with sea bass catches on reef sites. Small pieces of clam or squid on bottom rigs produce steady action. Their excellent table fare makes them worth targeting specifically.
Offshore Report
The new jersey offshore fishing report brings exciting news as yellowfin tuna fishing remains consistently productive 40-70 miles out. Most yellowfin range 30-60 pounds with occasional bigeye to 100+ pounds in the mix. Trolled cedar plugs and spreader bars are accounting for most catches.
Mahi are showing in good numbers around floating debris and weed lines. Keep a spinning rod rigged with a small bucktail ready when you spot floating structure. Chunking with butterfish has also been producing well when marks are located.
Species Quick Reference Guide
| Species | Current Size Range | Best Bait | Prime Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flounder | 18-24" (3-8 lbs) | Live minnows, Gulp | Bay channels, inlet |
| Striped Bass | 28-38" (slot) | Live eels, bunker | Jetties, bridges |
| Weakfish | 2-5 lbs | Bucktails w/ Gulp | Channel edges |
| Sheepshead | 3-7 lbs | Sand fleas | Bridge pilings |
| Yellowfin Tuna | 30-60 lbs | Trolled spreaders | 40-70 miles |
| Croaker/Spot | 8-14" | Bloodworms | Bay, inlet |
Hot Spots & Locations - Where to Fish Today?
Knowing where to drop your line makes all the difference between a successful trip and just a boat ride. These proven locations are producing consistently based on current fishing reports for new jersey. GPS coordinates and specific tactics included for each spot.
Absecon Inlet Fishing
The inlet remains the most consistent producer for multiple species. The north jetty rocks (39.3677° N, 74.4176° W) offer excellent structure for sheepshead, tog, and striped bass. Fish the last two hours of incoming tide with sand fleas or green crabs fished tight to the rocks.
The main channel (20-35 feet deep) between the jetties produces steady flounder action. Drift live minnows or Gulp on 3/4 to 1-ounce bucktails, adjusting weight based on current speed. The channel edges where depth changes from 15 to 25 feet concentrate feeding fish.
South jetty pocket (39.3642° N, 74.4142° W) provides calmer water during north winds. This protected area holds spot, croaker, and smaller flounder. Fish bloodworms or Fishbites on bottom rigs during slack tide for best results.
Absecon Bay Productive Areas
"The Stakes" (39.3444° N, 74.4683° W) is a narrow channel cutting through Absecon Bay that concentrates moving fish. This high-traffic area requires courtesy - bump your motor when boats approach. The channel edges drop from 3 to 12 feet, creating perfect ambush points for flounder and weakfish.
Deep channels near Broad Thoroughfare (39.3556° N, 74.4889° W) consistently produce keeper flounder on moving tides. These 15-20 foot channels warm first on incoming tides, triggering feeding activity. Work channel edges with a slow drift, keeping baits near bottom.
Sod bank edges throughout the bay create natural structure holding stripers and weakfish. Target areas where marsh grass meets open water, especially near creek mouths. These edges fish best at dawn and dusk when predators patrol shallow water.
Back Bay Channels & Bridges
Route 30 Bridge (39.3678° N, 74.4444° W) pilings hold impressive sheepshead and tog populations. Fish straight down with minimal weight during slack tide. The shadow lines created by the bridge concentrate baitfish, attracting predators during daylight hours.
ICW channels from Atlantic City to Ocean City average 12-18 feet and serve as fish highways. Marker #82 area (39.3211° N, 74.5123° W) has been particularly productive. Drift these channels with the tide using larger baits for quality over quantity.
Smaller creeks feeding the main bay warm quickly and attract baitfish. These overlooked areas often hold surprising numbers of keeper flounder and occasional doormat fish seeking easy meals in shallow water.
Offshore Reef Sites
AC Reef (39.2833° N, 74.2667° W) in 70-80 feet produces excellent flounder, sea bass, and triggerfish. The concrete reef balls and retired subway cars create perfect habitat. Anchor uptide and fish baits back to the structure for best results.
OC Reef (39.1500° N, 74.3333° W) features similar structure in 60-70 feet. This site has been producing larger flounder averaging 4-6 pounds. The freshwater flounder techniques surprisingly apply here - patience and proper presentation are key.
Wreck sites 8-15 miles offshore hold the largest summer flounder. These structures in 60-90 feet require heavier tackle and larger baits. Coordinates available at local tackle shops with current intel on which wrecks are producing.
Top Producing Locations This Week:
- Absecon Inlet north jetty - Sheepshead and tog
- The Stakes channel edges - Flounder and weakfish
- Route 30 Bridge - Sheepshead central
- AC Reef - Mixed bag bonanza
- 70-foot wrecks - Trophy flounder
Southern NJ Regional Fishing Update
The entire South Jersey coast is experiencing exceptional fishing. From the new jersey fisherman fishing reports pouring in, every major fishing area is producing quality catches. Here's your comprehensive regional breakdown.
Great Bay Report
Great Bay's deeper channels near the Route 9 bridge are loaded with keeper flounder. The 15-25 foot channels running from the bridge to the inlet have been most productive. Live spot dropped in these channels during the last half of incoming tide are producing the largest fish.
Motts Creek and surrounding tributaries are holding good numbers of weakfish during evening hours. Small swimming plugs and soft plastics in natural colors work best. The creek mouths where they meet the main bay concentrate feeding fish at tide changes.
Little Egg Inlet to Barnegat
Little Egg Inlet continues its reputation as a flounder factory with consistent limits reported. The channel edges and holes 15-30 feet deep hold fish throughout the tide. Beach Haven charter boats are finding success drifting from the inlet toward the bay.
Barnegat Bay's western shore channels are producing a mixed bag of flounder, weakfish, and surprisingly good striped bass action. The sedge islands provide excellent structure and baitfish habitat. Understanding crabbing regulations helps since blue claw crabs here make excellent striper bait.
Cape May County Waters
Cape May reef sites are on fire with triggerfish, sea bass, and quality flounder. The artificial reefs in 60-80 feet are holding impressive numbers of fish. Tog are also present but remember they're currently out of season.
Hereford Inlet and surrounding back bays from Wildwood to Stone Harbor report excellent flounder fishing. The deeper channels and bridge shadows are key areas. Larger baits like 8-inch strip baits or live croakers are selecting for bigger fish.
Delaware Bay Influence
The Delaware Bay side from Fortescue to Bowers Beach offers excellent variety. Croaker and spot are abundant with occasional puppy drum mixed in. The tidal movements similar to Washington waters create comparable fishing patterns - fish the moving water for best results.
The bay's influence extends south creating a unique ecosystem where ocean and bay species overlap. This transition zone often produces surprising catches including early season tog and occasional cobia during warm water pushes.
Proven Baits & Techniques Working Now
Success starts with the right bait and presentation. Local shops confirm these baits are producing the most consistent catches across all species. Stock up before heading out as popular baits sell quickly during peak season.
Live Bait Strategies
Live minnows (killies) remain the gold standard for flounder fishing throughout the Absecon bay fishing report area. Purchase 2-3 dozen for a half-day trip. Hook them through the lips for drifting or through the back when fishing stationary. Keep them lively in an aerated bucket with regular water changes.
Live spot (3-6 inches) are deadly for trophy flounder and doormat hunters. These hardy baits stay active on the hook and trigger strikes from the largest predators. Fish them on 6/0 circle hooks with just enough weight to reach bottom. One live spot is worth a dozen minnows when targeting quality over quantity.
Bunker (menhaden) chunks and live-lined bunker dominate the striper scene. Fresh bunker outfishes frozen 3-to-1. Cut chunks at an angle to release more scent. For live-lining, use a treble hook through the nose with minimal weight, allowing natural swimming action.
Artificial Lures & Gulp Tactics
Gulp Swimming Mullet in 4 and 6-inch sizes are matching live bait success rates. White, chartreuse, and pink shine colors are top producers. The key is keeping them moving - a slow, steady retrieve just off bottom triggers reaction strikes.
Bucktails from 3/4 to 2 ounces cover all depths and conditions. White bucktails with white or pink Gulp trailers catch everything from flounder to weakfish. Bounce them along bottom in channels or swim them through the water column around structure.
Soft plastic swimbaits on jigheads excel for weakfish and stripers. Match the hatch with 4-5 inch paddletails in bunker or mullet patterns. The variety of fishing techniques shows success comes from adapting to conditions.
Bottom Fishing Rigs
High-low rigs with #6 long-shank hooks excel for spot, croaker, and kingfish. Add orange beads above hooks for extra attraction. Small strips of Fishbites Bloodworm formula often outfish real bloodworms and stay on the hook better.
Flounder rigs should feature 30-pound fluorocarbon leaders and 4/0 to 6/0 wide-gap hooks. The longer 36-inch leaders prevent line-shy fish from spooking. Chartreuse spinner blades above the hook add flash and vibration.
Three-way rigs keep baits in the strike zone when drifting fast currents. Use a 12-inch dropper for the sinker and 24-inch leader for the hook. This setup minimizes snags while maintaining bottom contact.
Night Fishing Techniques
Night fishing produces trophy stripers and weakfish avoiding daytime boat traffic. Green underwater lights attract baitfish, creating a buffet for predators. Position lights downcurrent from your fishing spot to draw fish through your presentation area.
Live eels remain the ultimate night bait for stripers. Fish them on 7/0 to 9/0 circle hooks with minimal weight. Let the eel swim naturally - strikes often come as subtle taps before the rod doubles over.
Soft plastic shrimp under popping corks excel for weakfish after dark. The popping sound mimics feeding fish, triggering competitive strikes. Work them slowly through areas with moving water and nearby structure.
Today's Hot Bait Checklist:
- Live minnows - 3 dozen minimum
- Gulp Swimming Mullet - White and chartreuse
- Fresh bunker - Chunks and live
- Bloodworms or Fishbites strips
- Sand fleas - For sheepshead
- 3/4 to 1-ounce white bucktails
- Circle hooks in sizes 4/0 to 8/0
New Jersey Offshore Fishing Report
The offshore scene 40-70 miles out continues to impress with consistent yellowfin tuna and mahi action. Water temperatures holding 74-76°F in the canyons have created ideal conditions. Current NOAA marine forecasts show fishable weather windows throughout the week.
Canyon Report
The Wilmington and Baltimore Canyons are producing the most consistent yellowfin action. Water temperatures at 75.5°F have concentrated baitfish along the temperature breaks. Most boats are finding fish before noon, with the bite slowing during afternoon hours.
Trolling cedar plugs and spreader bars at 6-7 knots covers water efficiently. Green machines and pink/white combinations are top colors. Keep a few naked ballyhoo ready for shy fish that won't commit to artificials. The professional approach to locating fish involves reading water temperature charts and bird activity.
Recent catches include yellowfin 30-80 pounds with occasional bigeye to 125 pounds mixed in. The full moon has the night bite firing - chunking after dark produces the largest fish. Butterfly chunks create an irresistible scent trail when current is right.
Inshore Lumps & Structure
The 20-fathom lumps 15-25 miles offshore hold mahi, occasional tuna, and sharks. These underwater hills concentrate baitfish and create upwellings that attract predators. Slow-trolling live baits around these structures produces when high-speed trolling fails.
Lobster pot buoys 8-15 miles out consistently hold mahi. Approach quietly and cast small bucktails or live baits near the buoys. Often multiple fish school under each buoy. Have multiple rods ready as the action can be fast and furious.
Weather Windows This Week
Monday through Wednesday offers the best offshore conditions with seas 2-3 feet and southwest winds 5-10 knots. Thursday and Friday see building seas to 4-5 feet - fishable but less comfortable. Weekend conditions depend on tropical weather development.
Early morning departures maximize calm conditions before afternoon sea breezes build. Plan to be on your numbers by sunrise for the best bite. Return trips before 2 PM avoid the worst of afternoon chop.
Pro Tips from Local Captains
Veteran Atlantic City charter captains share decades of experience to help you catch more fish. These insider techniques make the difference between a good day and a great day on the water.
Captain Mike DeCarlo's Flounder Secrets: "Everyone's throwing Gulp, so big flounder have gotten wise to it. Switch to live minnows or fresh strip baits when the bite slows. I catch my biggest fish on 6-inch strips of fresh sea robin belly - it stays on the hook and has incredible scent."
Night Striper Wisdom from Captain Dave: "Full moon nights are overrated for stripers. Fish the three nights before the new moon when it's darkest. Position near bridge lights where bait gathers but fish your baits in the shadows. Big stripers are lazy - they want an easy meal."
Sheepshead Tactics: "Sheepshead have crushers for teeth, so sharp hooks are essential. Touch up your hooks every few fish. Fish straight down with the lightest weight possible. When you feel the tap-tap, don't set immediately - let them turn with the bait first."
Money-Saving Bait Tips: Buy minnows the night before and keep them in your home aquarium setup - they'll be twice as lively as shop minnows in the morning. Make your own Gulp juice by saving the liquid from used bags and marinating fresh baits overnight. One $8 bag of Gulp can flavor dozens of strip baits.
Safety Reminders: The inlet can turn dangerous quickly with wind against tide. If waves start stacking up, head for protected water immediately. Always file a float plan and monitor VHF channel 16. Cell service is spotty offshore - don't rely on phones for emergency communication.
Fishing Regulations & Updates
Staying legal keeps you fishing. New Jersey regulations changed in 2025, so make sure you're current. Check official NJ Fish & Wildlife regulations for complete details and any emergency closures.
Current Size & Bag Limits
Summer Flounder (Fluke): 18-inch minimum, 3 fish daily limit per angler. No closed season. Measure from tip of snout to tip of tail. The 3-fish limit is a reduction from previous years, so quality over quantity matters more than ever.
Striped Bass: Slot limit 28 to 38 inches, 1 fish per day. Bonus tag program allows one additional fish over 38 inches per year. Circle hooks required when fishing with natural bait. No gaffing allowed - net only.
Black Sea Bass: 13-inch minimum, 1 fish per day through August 31. Season typically closes September 1-October 7, then reopens with different limits. These tasty bottom dwellers are worth targeting despite the conservative limit.
2025 Season Changes
Several important changes took effect in 2025. Weakfish regulations remain at 13-inch minimum with 1 fish daily limit - handle with care as populations recover. Bluefish limits increased to 5 fish per day for private anglers, recognizing improved stock assessments.
The summer flounder commercial/recreational allocation shifted, potentially affecting future seasons. Stay informed through official channels as mid-season adjustments sometimes occur based on harvest data.
License Requirements
New Jersey requires a free Saltwater Registry for all marine anglers 16 and older. Register online annually - it takes just minutes. No actual license fee applies for shore or boat fishing in marine waters.
Crabbing requires a separate license if using pots or traps. Hand-lining and scap netting for crabs requires only the free registry. Understanding comprehensive crabbing regulations prevents costly violations.
Species Regulations
| Species | Minimum Size | Daily Limit | Season | Special Rules |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Flounder | 18 inches | 3 fish | Open all year | None |
| Striped Bass | 28-38 inch slot | 1 fish | Open all year | Circle hooks required with bait |
| Weakfish | 13 inches | 1 fish | Open all year | Handle carefully |
| Black Sea Bass | 13 inches | 1 fish | Check current | Closes Sept-Oct |
| Bluefish | None | 5 fish | Open all year | None |
| Tautog | 16 inches | 1 fish | Closed summer | Check fall dates |
7-Day Fishing Forecast
Planning your fishing trips around optimal conditions dramatically improves success rates. This detailed forecast combines weather, tides, and fish behavior patterns for the week ahead.
Monday-Tuesday: Excellent conditions with light southwest winds and 2-3 foot seas. Morning high tides favor inlet fishing. Target flounder and weakfish on incoming water. Offshore trips should find calm seas and active tuna. Rating: 9/10
Wednesday-Thursday: Building southwest winds 10-15 knots create fishable but choppy conditions. Bay and protected waters fish best. The stronger winds concentrate bait, improving striper and bluefish action. Offshore marginal. Rating: 7/10
Friday-Weekend: Weather system approaching brings southeast winds 15-20 knots. Stick to back bays and protected shorelines. The weather change often triggers excellent fishing before the front. Monitor conditions closely. Rating: 6/10
Best Bets This Week:
- Monday morning: Absecon Inlet for flounder on incoming tide
- Tuesday evening: Bridge pilings for sheepshead at slack tide
- Wednesday dawn: Back bay channels for weakfish
- Thursday night: Jetty rocks for stripers
- Weekend: Protected bay spots for mixed bag
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Current Fishing Conditions in Atlantic City?
Fishing conditions are excellent with 75°F water temperatures and active feeding across all species. Flounder fishing rates 9/10 with numerous keepers reported daily. The calm weather pattern creates ideal conditions for both boat and shore anglers through midweek.
Where Can I Find Today's Atlantic City Fishing Report?
Right here! We update this Atlantic City fishing report today with the latest catches, conditions, and intel from local captains and tackle shops. Bookmark this page for daily updates during peak season. Social media groups like "FishAC" on Facebook provide real-time catch photos and reports.
What's the Best Bait for Absecon Inlet Fishing?
Live minnows consistently produce the most flounder in the inlet. For sheepshead around the jetty rocks, sand fleas are unbeatable. Stripers prefer bunker chunks or live eels. The German Blue Ram guide reminds us that matching bait to target species is crucial - just as in freshwater fishing.
Are Striped Bass Running in Southern NJ Right Now?
Yes! The new jersey striper fishing report shows excellent action during night hours and around structure. Keeper slot fish (28-38 inches) are common with larger bonus tag fish mixed in. Focus efforts around moving water during low light conditions. Live eels and bunker chunks produce best.
What Size Flounder Are Being Caught in Absecon Bay?
The Absecon bay fishing report shows keeper flounder from 18-24 inches with frequent 4-7 pound fish. The back bays are fishing unusually well for late summer, producing more keepers than typical. Several 8-pound doormats were verified this week. Target deeper channels and channel edges during moving tides.
Conclusion
Atlantic City's fishing scene is absolutely on fire right now! With water temperatures perfect at 75°F, every species from back bay flounder to offshore yellowfin tuna is feeding aggressively. This week's conditions offer exceptional opportunities whether you're a shore angler or heading 60 miles offshore.
Your best bets for the immediate future: target flounder in the bay channels during incoming tides with live minnows, hit the bridge pilings at dawn for trophy sheepshead, or join the night bite for keeper stripers around inlet structure. With stable weather through Wednesday, now's the time to get on the water.
Don't forget to share your catches and fishing reports with the local community - your intel helps everyone succeed. Check back tomorrow for updated conditions and the latest bite reports. The fish are waiting, and conditions couldn't be better. Tight lines!
