Atlantic City Fishing Report 2026 - Catches & Hot Spots

The spring bite is waking up in Atlantic City waters! White perch are stacking up in the creeks and river mouths, early migratory striped bass are pushing through Absecon Inlet on their northward journey, and the herring run is just beginning to turn on in the tributaries. Water temperatures have climbed to 50-55°F after a cold winter, triggering the first real feeding activity of the season from the back bays to the inlet jetties.

Today's Atlantic City fishing report today brings promising news for spring anglers: the spring striper run is starting to produce fish in the 28-34 inch range around the north jetty, while bloodworm fishermen are finding success with hungry white perch in Lakes Bay and the Mullica River tributaries. The herring run typically peaks in mid-April, and we're seeing the first schools push up the Great Egg Harbor River. Here's everything you need to know to get in on the early season action.

This comprehensive report covers current spring conditions and the warming water temperatures, what's biting throughout the region during this transitional season, proven hot spots with GPS coordinates, and the baits producing best right now including bloodworms and grass shrimp. We'll also share exclusive tips from local captains at One Stop Bait & Tackle and Absecon Bay Sportsman Center, updated 2026 regulations, a surf fishing specific breakdown, and your 7-day April fishing forecast. Whether you're targeting early season stripers or planning to intercept the herring run, we've got you covered.

Today's Atlantic City Fishing Report - Current Conditions

The Atlantic City fishing scene is transitioning from winter dormancy to spring activity as water temperatures climb into the prime 50-55°F range. These conditions trigger the herring run and bring the first wave of migratory striped bass into our waters. Understanding these early season conditions is crucial for timing your trips around the best windows.

Water Temperature & Weather Impact

Current water temperatures are holding at 50-52°F in the ocean and 52-55°F in the back bays, creating ideal conditions for the spring migration. These temperatures have white perch actively feeding in the creeks, while the first striped bass are arriving at the inlet. The warming trend over the past week has been steady at 1-2 degrees per day, perfect for triggering baitfish movement without shocking the system.

Morning temperatures are starting in the mid-40s with afternoon highs reaching the low 60s. Light northwest winds 5-10 knots dominate most days, making for comfortable fishing conditions. Afternoon sea breezes typically build to 10-15 knots, making early morning the prime window. The stable spring weather pattern forecast through the week means consistent conditions for targeting early season species.

Tide Information for Absecon Inlet

Today's tide schedule for the Absecon inlet fishing report shows high tide at 7:42 AM and 8:15 PM, with lows at 1:28 AM and 2:05 PM. The incoming tide starting 2 hours before high has been producing the most consistent striper action as fresh ocean water pushes baitfish into the inlet. Current flow reaches maximum velocity 2 hours after the tide change.

The new moon phase this week creates moderate tides with excellent water movement through the inlet and back bay channels. This increased flow is positioning migrating herring and the predators following them in predictable locations. Focus efforts during the hour before and after high tide when stripers often feed most aggressively on concentrated bait.

Best Fishing Times Today

Based on current spring conditions and solunar tables, peak fishing windows occur from 5:45-8:30 AM and 5:30-8:00 PM. The morning bite coincides perfectly with the incoming tide and rising water temperatures, while evening action peaks as the sun sets during the outgoing flow.

These prime periods align with major solunar activity and the natural movement patterns of herring during the spring spawn. Between these windows, target deeper holes and channels where fish seek stable water temperatures. The FishAC Facebook group has been reporting excellent morning catches of white perch and early stripers during these windows.

What's Biting Now - Species Report Card

Atlantic City waters are showing the first signs of the spring fishery awakening. From the southern nj fishing reports flooding in, this is shaping up as a promising early season with the herring run just beginning. Here's your detailed breakdown of what's hitting and where to find them during this transitional period.

Inshore Species Status

White Perch are the stars of the spring show with fish from 10-14 inches common and jumbos to 16 inches being reported from Lakes Bay and the Mullica River. These aggressive feeders are stacked in the warmer creeks and tributaries, hitting bloodworms and grass shrimp with abandon. The run typically peaks when water temps hit 50-55°F, which is exactly where we are right now.

Striped Bass action is just beginning for the spring run with fish from 28-34 inches being caught around the inlet jetties and bridge structure. The new jersey striper fishing report indicates this is the leading edge of the migration, with numbers expected to increase daily as water temps stabilize. Live bloodworms and bunker chunks are the top producers for these early arrivals. Circle hooks are mandatory when using bait - check current NJ regulations for complete rules.

Herring are beginning their annual spawning run up the Great Egg Harbor River and tributaries. While not a primary target for eating, herring serve as the key forage species that draws predators into our waters. Anglers are reporting schools moving through Absecon Bay on their way to freshwater spawning grounds. Snagging herring for bait is legal with a special permit and provides excellent striper bait.

Black Drum are being reported with increasing frequency as water temps climb. The first reports of the season came from Lakes Bay with a fish just shy of keeper size. These powerful bottom feeders typically arrive in mid-to-late April and favor bloodworms and clams fished near structure. Keep an ear to local bait shops for the first verified keeper reports.

Winter Flounder remain available through April with the season typically closing at the end of the month. Fish from 12-16 inches are being caught in the back bays on traditional flounder rigs baited with bloodworms or clam strips. Target the muddy bottom areas in 8-15 feet of water for best results before the season closes.

Bridge & Structure Species

Tautog (Blackfish) fishing remains excellent through April with the spring season still open. Fish to 7 pounds are being caught around bridge pilings and jetty rocks. Green crabs and white-legger crabs fished tight to structure on medium-heavy tackle produce best. The season closes in late April, so get out now while you can still target these excellent table fare fish.

Sheepshead are present but not as active as they will be in summer months. Occasional fish to 4 pounds are being caught around the Route 30 Bridge pilings. Sand fleas and fiddler crabs remain the top bait choices when targeting these structure-loving fish. Warmer afternoons seem to produce better than cold mornings.

Bluefish are starting to make their first appearance of the season with small snappers to 2 pounds reported around the inlet. These aggressive predators will become more common as water temperatures climb toward 60°F. Metal lures and cut bait both produce when blues are in the feeding mode.

Offshore Report

The new jersey offshore fishing report is essentially quiet this time of year as most offshore species haven't arrived yet. Yellowfin tuna, mahi, and other warm-water offshore species typically don't show in fishable numbers until late May or June. Water temperatures at the canyons are still in the mid-50s, too cold for consistent action.

However, nearshore wreck fishing for tautog and black sea bass is producing on days when weather allows. These wrecks in 40-80 feet hold fish throughout the spring season. Anchor carefully and fish green crabs or clam for best results. Always check the latest NOAA marine forecasts before heading offshore in April, as spring weather can change rapidly.

Species Quick Reference Guide

Species	Current Size Range	Best Bait	Prime Locations
White Perch	10-14 inches	Bloodworms, grass shrimp	Creeks, river mouths
Striped Bass	28-34 inches	Bloodworms, bunker	Inlet jetties, bridges
Herring	Schools moving	Sabiki rigs (for bait)	River channels
Black Drum	First reports in	Bloodworms, clams	Lakes Bay, channels
Tautog	3-7 lbs	Green crabs	Bridge pilings, jetties
Winter Flounder	12-16 inches	Bloodworms, clam	Back bays

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 spring-specific tactics included for each spot.

Absecon Inlet Fishing

The inlet is the focal point for spring striper action as migratory fish pause here before continuing north. The north jetty rocks (39.3677° N, 74.4176° W) offer excellent casting opportunities for early season stripers. Fish the incoming tide with bloodworms or small bunker chunks cast close to the rocks. Early morning before the crowds arrive produces best.

The main channel (20-35 feet deep) between the jetties will become productive as more bass arrive. For now, focus on the edges where the shallower water drops into the channel. Drift bloodworms or fish them on a three-way rig to stay in the strike zone. The channel edges where depth changes from 15 to 25 feet will concentrate the first wave of feeding fish.

South jetty pocket (39.3642° N, 74.4142° W) provides calmer water during north winds. This area produces white perch and occasional tautog during spring months. Fish bloodworms or green crabs on bottom rigs during the incoming tide for best results.

Absecon Bay Productive Areas

Lakes Bay (39.3767° N, 74.4528° W) is producing excellent white perch action with fish averaging 11-13 inches. The deeper holes in 12-18 feet of water concentrate fish during the colder morning hours. Bloodworms fished on high-low rigs produce steady action. Several anglers reported their best white perch catches of the season here this week.

"The Stakes" (39.3444° N, 74.4683° W) channel edges are beginning to show signs of life with herring moving through and white perch feeding along the edges. This area will become increasingly productive as water temperatures continue climbing. Work the channel edges slowly, keeping baits near bottom where spring fish hold.

The Mullica River mouth where it meets Absecon Bay is a prime location for intercepting the herring run and the stripers following them. Fish the last hour of outgoing tide and first hour of incoming when predator and prey are most concentrated. Bloodworms and small bucktails both produce in this area.

Back Bay Channels & Bridges

Route 30 Bridge (39.3678° N, 74.4444° W) pilings are producing tautog and the occasional striped bass. Fish straight down with minimal weight during slack tide for tog, or cast toward the shadow lines during moving water for stripers. Green crabs for tog, bloodworms for stripers - keep it simple.

ICW channels from Atlantic City to Ocean City average 12-18 feet and serve as spring fish highways. Marker #82 area (39.3211° N, 74.5123° W) has been particularly productive for white perch. Drift these channels with bloodworms or grass shrimp, focusing on deeper holes where fish congregate.

Smaller creeks feeding into Absecon Bay warm quickly during spring afternoons and attract white perch. Target areas where creek mouths meet the main bay, especially during outgoing tides when fish position to ambush bait washing out. These overlooked areas often produce surprising numbers of quality fish.

Great Egg Harbor River & Tributaries

The Great Egg Harbor River is the primary spawning route for spring herring, making it a magnet for predator activity. The river mouth and first few miles upstream are producing white perch and early stripers. Bloodworms fished on the bottom in the deeper holes (8-15 feet) will catch both species.

Tuckerton Creek and the surrounding marsh areas offer excellent spring white perch fishing in protected waters. The back creeks warm faster than the main river, drawing perch in earlier than other areas. Fish the turns and deeper pockets with bloodworms for consistent action.

Bass River (39.5428° N, 74.4306° W) is showing early signs of the spring fishery with white perch being caught at the mouth where it meets Great Bay. This area will continue improving as temperatures rise and more fish move into the system.

Top Producing Locations This Week:

• Lakes Bay - White perch central
• Absecon Inlet north jetty - Early season stripers
• Great Egg Harbor River mouth - Herring and bass
• Route 30 Bridge - Tautog and structure fishing
• Tuckerton Creek - Protected water perch fishing

Atlantic City Surf Fishing Report

The surf fishing scene in Atlantic City is awakening from winter dormancy with the first spring stripers being caught along the beachfront. The Atlantic City surf fishing report shows increasing activity as water temperatures climb and baitfish move closer to shore.

Beach Access & Fishing Zones

Atlantic City's beachfront offers several miles of accessible surf fishing from the Ventnor border north to Brigantine. The beaches near the inlet (between Missouri and Maine Avenues) provide the best spring action as the proximity to the inlet concentrates migrating fish. Street parking is available at most beach blocks, though metered spaces fill quickly on weekends.

The "South End" beaches from Jackson Avenue to the Margate border typically hold better numbers of fish due to the deeper water and structure offshore. Dawn and dusk produce best, with night fishing under lights near the casinos also effective for spring stripers. A surf rod of 10-12 feet is ideal for reaching the outer bars where spring fish hold.

What's Working from the Beach

Bloodworms remain the top producer from the surf during spring, with fish actively seeking this protein-rich bait after winter. Fish a single hook rig with a 4-6 ounce pyramid sinker to hold bottom in the spring surf. Fresh bunker chunks also produce when stripers are feeding aggressively.

For artificial presentations, white or chartreuse bucktails from 1-2 ounces work well when worked slowly along the bottom. Swimming plugs like Daiwa SP Minnows or Bomber Long As in bunker or mackerel patterns can trigger reaction strikes from cruising fish. The key is a slow, steady retrieve that keeps the lure in the strike zone.

Jetty Fishing Access Points

The Absecon Inlet jetties offer the most consistent spring surf action but require caution. The north jetty is accessible from Gardner's Basin or by walking the beach from the inlet side. Rock-hopping experience is essential, and korkers or cleated boots are mandatory for safety. The jetties fish best 2 hours before and after high tide.

Brigantine's north end jetties provide an alternative when the inlet is crowded or weather makes the ocean side dangerous. These jetties hold fish throughout the spring with less fishing pressure than the Absecon Inlet rocks. Access is via 14th Street North in Brigantine.

Southern NJ Regional Fishing Update

The entire South Jersey coast is showing early spring fishing activity. From the new jersey fisherman fishing reports pouring in, the spring transition is underway across all major fishing areas. Here's your comprehensive regional breakdown for April.

Great Bay Report

Great Bay is showing the first real signs of spring with white perch moving into the warmer tributaries. The back bay areas near Tuckerton are producing better than the main bay as shallow water warms faster. Bloodworms fished in the creek mouths during outgoing tide are producing the most consistent action.

The Mullica River as it flows through Great Bay is attracting early season fish looking for warmer water. Anglers fishing the river mouth are reporting mixed bags of white perch and occasional striped bass. The area will continue improving as the herring run builds momentum upstream.

Little Egg Inlet to Barnegat

Little Egg Inlet is producing early season stripers similar to Absecon, with fish in the 28-32 inch range being caught on bunker and bloodworms. The inlet jetties here offer less crowded fishing than Absecon but similar potential. Beach Haven anglers are finding success on the incoming tide.

Barnegat Bay's western shore channels are warming and attracting white perch. The sedge islands provide excellent structure and baitfish habitat. The area from the Route 72 causeway north to the Double Creek channel is producing steady white perch action on bloodworms.

Cape May County Waters

Cape May is ahead of Atlantic City in the spring transition with water temperatures typically 2-3 degrees warmer. Early weakfish reports are coming from the Cape May Canal and Delaware Bay side, indicating the migration is progressing. White perch action is strong throughout the back bays.

Hereford Inlet and surrounding back bays from Wildwood to Stone Harbor report excellent white perch fishing. The deeper channels and creek mouths are key areas. The spring run here is typically 1-2 weeks ahead of the Atlantic City area, making Cape May a good indicator of what's coming.

Delaware Bay Influence

The Delaware Bay side from Fortescue to Bowers Beach offers excellent spring variety. White perch and striped bass are moving into the bay from the ocean, following the warming water. The beaches and rock piles along the Cape May County shore are producing early season action.

The bay's influence creates a unique ecosystem where ocean and river species overlap during the spring migration. This transition zone often produces surprising catches including early season weakfish and the first black drum of the year. Bloodworms are the universal bait on this side of the cape.

Local Bait Shop Intel - One Stop Bait & Tackle & Absecon Bay Sportsman Center

Nothing beats local knowledge when it comes to current fishing conditions. The bait shops are on the water daily, talking to dozens of anglers, and seeing exactly what's being caught. Here's what they're reporting this week.

One Stop Bait & Tackle (Atlantic City)

Located on Arctic Avenue in the heart of Atlantic City, One Stop Bait & Tackle is seeing steady traffic from white perch anglers heading to Lakes Bay. Shop owner reports that bloodworms are moving fast - call ahead to reserve yours, especially on weekends. They're also getting the first requests for bunker as stripers start showing at the inlet.

The shop is seeing limits of white perch (25 fish per person) being reported regularly from the Mullica River tributaries. Tautog fishermen are still buying green crabs while the season remains open. One Stop also carries live minnows for those targeting larger perch or early flounder.

Absecon Bay Sportsman Center

Located on the White Horse Pike in Absecon, this full-service shop is the go-to source for back bay and inlet fishing intel. Their reports indicate the herring run is building steam with fish moving up the Great Egg Harbor River in good numbers. This means the striper bite should improve daily as predators follow the bait.

Absecon Bay Sportsman Center reports that black drum are being "almost caught" - several fish right at or just under the 16-inch minimum. They expect verified keeper reports within the week as the drum bite typically turns on when water temps hit 54-55°F consistently. Bloodworms and fresh clam are the baits of choice.

Both shops recommend following the FishAC Facebook group for real-time reports from anglers on the water. The community sharing of catch photos and location info helps everyone stay on the bite as spring conditions change daily.

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 spring species. Stock up before heading out as popular baits like bloodworms sell quickly during peak spring season.

Live & Natural Bait Strategies

Bloodworms are the undisputed king of spring fishing in the Atlantic City area. These protein-rich worms trigger feeding in cold-water fish recovering from winter. Purchase 2-3 dozen for a day of perch fishing, or a half-dozen for striper targeting. Keep them cool and handle gently - they're fragile but incredibly effective.

Grass shrimp are a secret weapon for white perch in the back bays. These small crustaceans match the natural forage perfectly and often outfish bloodworms in the creeks. Use a small hook (size 6-8) and light line to present them naturally.

Green crabs remain essential for tautog fishing through the end of the spring season. Select crabs that fit in the palm of your hand - larger crabs work for big tog but smaller crabs produce more bites. Crack the shell slightly to release scent while keeping the crab active.

Bunker (menhaden) chunks are producing early season stripers at the inlet. 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

While spring fishing relies heavily on natural bait, artificials have their place. Small bucktails from 1/4 to 1/2 ounce in white or pink are effective for white perch when worked slowly along channel edges. The key is a bottom-hugging retrieve - perch feed down, not up, in cold water.

For stripers, swimming plugs that imitate bunker or herring work when fish are active. Use slow retrieves in cold water - spring stripers are lethargic and won't chase fast-moving lures. The Bomber Long A and Daiwa SP Minnow are local favorites.

Soft plastic shrimp in natural colors work for both perch and stripers when rigged on a light jighead. Fish them slowly along the bottom with occasional hops to trigger strikes. The variety of fishing techniques shows success comes from adapting to cold-water conditions.

Bottom Fishing Rigs

High-low rigs with #6 long-shank hooks excel for white perch. Add small orange beads above hooks for extra attraction. Keep the hooks small - perch have delicate mouths and large hooks will cost you fish. A 1-2 ounce sinker is usually sufficient in the back bays.

Tautog rigs should feature stout 4/0 to 6/0 hooks and 30-50 pound leader material. Tog have teeth and fight hard around structure. A three-way rig with a 6-inch dropper and 18-inch leader keeps the bait in the strike zone while minimizing snags.

For spring stripers, a fish-finder rig with a 3-4 foot fluorocarbon leader and 6/0 circle hook is the standard. Use enough weight to hold bottom (2-6 ounces depending on current) but no more. The circle hook will typically set itself - resist the urge to jerk the rod.

Spring Herring Run Techniques

The herring run is a key spring event that drives the entire fishery. To catch herring for bait, use a sabiki rig with small hooks (size 8-10) and tiny pieces of bait or reflective material. Fish these near the bottom in the main river channels during the tide change. A special herring snagging permit is required.

Once you have fresh herring, they can be used whole for larger stripers or cut into chunks for general bait. Fresh herring often outproduces frozen bunker for spring stripers that are keyed in on the specific profile of the migrating baitfish.

Position yourself downcurrent from herring schools when possible. Stripers typically wait downstream to ambush bait rather than chasing in the current. Watch for surface activity and birds diving on bait - these are the signs that predators are actively feeding.

Today's Hot Bait Checklist:

• Bloodworms - 2-3 dozen minimum for perch
• Grass shrimp - 1 pint for back bay fishing
• Green crabs - 1 dozen for tautog season
• Fresh bunker - Chunks for stripers
• Small white bucktails - 1/4 to 1/2 ounce
• Circle hooks in sizes 4/0 to 6/0
• High-low rigs for perch

New Jersey Offshore Fishing Report

The offshore scene remains quiet in April as water temperatures are too cold for the typical offshore species. The new jersey offshore fishing report for this time of year focuses on nearshore options and preparation for the upcoming season.

Nearshore Wreck & Reef Options

While the canyons are dormant, nearshore wreck fishing in 60-90 feet remains viable for tautog and black sea bass on days when weather allows. These wrecks hold fish year-round, though April conditions can be challenging. Check current NOAA marine forecasts before planning any offshore trip in spring.

The AC Reef in 70-80 feet and similar nearshore structures are your best options when winds allow. Anchor uptide of the structure and fish baits back to the wreck. Green crabs and clam both produce on these spring wrecks. Be prepared for wind and cold - April offshore fishing requires proper gear and safety equipment.

Canyon Season Preview

The Wilmington and Baltimore Canyons will begin producing tuna in late May or early June when water temperatures reach the mid-60s. Until then, focus your efforts inshore. The offshore coordinates resources and Massey's Canyon information will be valuable once the offshore season begins.

Now is the time to prepare your offshore gear, service reels, and organize tackle. The brief spring offshore window will open soon, and being ready to go when conditions align is key to success. Join the FishAC group to connect with other offshore anglers for weather updates and trip coordination.

Weather Windows This Week

Monday through Wednesday offers the best nearshore conditions with seas 2-3 feet and northwest winds 5-10 knots. Thursday and Friday see building winds to 10-15 knots - fishable but less comfortable. Weekend conditions depend on a developing coastal system that could bring rain and higher seas.

Early morning departures maximize calm conditions before afternoon winds build. Plan to be on your spots by sunrise for the best bite. Return trips before 2 PM avoid the worst of afternoon chop. Always have a backup plan to fish protected back bays if offshore conditions deteriorate.

Pro Tips from Local Captains

Veteran Atlantic City charter captains share decades of experience to help you catch more fish this spring. These insider techniques make the difference between a good day and a great day on the water.

Captain Mike from One Stop Bait & Tackle on Spring Perch: "Everyone fishes bloodworms, but the guys catching the biggest white perch are using grass shrimp in the back creeks. The perch are keyed on natural forage after winter, and shrimp match exactly what they're eating. Use a #8 hook and fish the turns in the creeks, not the straightaways."

Early Striper Wisdom from Captain Dave: "The first wave of spring stripers are hungry but spooky. Fish early morning before the boat traffic starts. Live bloodworms outfish everything for the early run - these fish are recovering from the migration and want easy calories. Position at the inlet during the last of the outgoing tide."

Spring Tautog Tactics: "Don't wait for the fall - spring tog fishing can be excellent before the season closes. Focus on the warmest part of the day, 11 AM to 3 PM, when the sun has warmed the rocks. Use smaller crabs than you would in fall, and fish shallower water. The fish are there, just less aggressive than autumn."

Herring Run Timing: "Watch the water temperature gauge at the Great Egg Harbor River. When it hits 50°F consistently, the herring will move. They're triggered by temperature, not the calendar. Position yourself downstream from the first riffles and cast into the current. The stripers will be there within 24 hours of the herring."

Safety Reminders: Spring water is cold and unforgiving. Wear a life jacket when fishing the jetties or from any boat. 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.

Fishing Regulations & Updates

Staying legal keeps you fishing. New Jersey regulations for 2026 include several important updates. Check official NJ Fish & Wildlife regulations for complete details and any emergency closures.

Current Size & Bag Limits

White Perch: No minimum size, 25 fish daily limit per angler. No closed season. This generous limit reflects the healthy perch populations in our back bays.

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. The spring run is an excellent time to use your bonus tag on a trophy fish.

Black Drum: 16-inch minimum, 3 fish daily limit. Season is open year-round but the spring run typically provides the best shore-based opportunities. Fish just under the 16-inch minimum are common - handle carefully and release properly.

Winter Flounder: 12-inch minimum, 2 fish daily limit. The season typically closes at the end of April - get out now if you want to target these flatfish.

Tautog (Blackfish): 15-inch minimum, 4 fish daily limit during the spring season. The spring season typically closes in late April, so verify current dates before targeting these fish.

2026 Season Changes

Several important changes took effect in 2026. Summer flounder regulations have been adjusted to an 18-inch minimum with a 3 fish daily limit. 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.

The striped bass circle hook requirement is now strictly enforced. Make sure your hooks meet the specifications when bait fishing. 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. Snagging herring requires a separate permit.

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
White Perch	None	25 fish	Open all year	None
Striped Bass	28-38 inch slot	1 fish	Open all year	Circle hooks required with bait
Black Drum	16 inches	3 fish	Open all year	None
Tautog	15 inches	4 fish	Check current	Spring closes April
Winter Flounder	12 inches	2 fish	Through April	Check closure dates
Bluefish	None	5 fish	Open all year	None

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 in April 2026.

Monday-Tuesday, April 6-7: Excellent conditions with light northwest winds and sunny skies. Water temperatures will climb 2-3 degrees, triggering increased feeding activity. Morning high tides favor inlet fishing for stripers. Back bays will warm quickly, improving perch action. Rating: 9/10

Wednesday-Thursday, April 8-9: Partly cloudy with winds shifting to southwest 10-15 knots. Fishable conditions continue but afternoon winds may create chop. The herring run should intensify with the warming trend. Protected waters fish best in afternoons. Rating: 8/10

Friday-Sunday, April 10-12: A coastal system approaches with rain likely Saturday and increasing southeast winds. Friday remains fishable but Saturday could be challenging. Sunday should clear with improving conditions. The weather change may trigger excellent feeding before the front arrives. Rating: 6/10

Best Bets This Week:

• Monday morning: Absecon Inlet for early season stripers on incoming tide
• Tuesday afternoon: Lakes Bay for white perch as waters warm
• Wednesday dawn: Great Egg Harbor River for herring and following bass
• Thursday midday: Route 30 Bridge for tautog before season closes
• Friday morning: Surf fishing beaches for migratory stripers

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Atlantic City's fishing scene is emerging from winter dormancy with the first exciting signs of the spring season! Water temperatures have climbed to the 50-55°F range, triggering the herring run and bringing the first wave of migratory striped bass to our waters. This week's conditions offer excellent opportunities for white perch in the back bays and early season stripers at the inlet.

Your best bets for the immediate future: target white perch in Lakes Bay and the Mullica River tributaries using bloodworms, intercept early stripers at Absecon Inlet during the incoming tide, or catch the tail end of tautog season at the Route 30 Bridge. With warming weather and stable conditions through midweek, now is the time to get out and enjoy the spring fishery.

Don't forget to check in with One Stop Bait & Tackle or Absecon Bay Sportsman Center for the latest local intel, and share your catches with the FishAC community. As water temperatures continue climbing, expect the fishing to improve daily. The herring run is just getting started, and the best fishing of the spring season is still ahead. Check back for updated conditions and the latest bite reports. Tight lines!