The bite is ON in Cape May waters! Flounder are stacking up in the back bays with keepers to 9 pounds, while the canyon waters are producing limits of yellowfin tuna. Water temperatures holding steady at 76°F have triggered an exceptional late-summer pattern that's bucking typical August trends.
This Cape May fishing report today brings you real-time updates from local captains, current conditions across all fishing zones, and proven techniques working right now. Whether you're planning to fish the surf, hop on a charter, or launch your own boat, you'll find exactly what's biting and where to find them.
We'll cover inshore hotspots producing trophy flounder, offshore canyon coordinates loaded with tuna, surf conditions at each beach, and the latest fleet reports including the Miss Chris fishing report. Plus, get tide charts, bait recommendations, and regulation updates to maximize your Cape May fishing success.
Current Cape May Fishing Conditions Today
Water Temperature & Clarity
Water temperatures remain ideal at 76°F throughout the bay systems, creating perfect conditions for an extended variety of species. The recent northwest winds have cleared the water significantly, with visibility extending 4-6 feet in most inshore areas. This clarity has the flounder feeding aggressively on larger baits.
Offshore waters are running slightly warmer at 78-80°F, with a defined temperature break at the 30-fathom line. The clean green water extends from the beach out to 15 miles, transitioning to the deeper blue water where the tuna are concentrated.
Tide Information & Best Fishing Times
Today's incoming tide peaks at 11:47 AM, coinciding with the prime feeding window for inshore species. The outgoing starts at 6:23 PM, which has been producing the evening black drum bite. Tomorrow's incoming begins at 12:35 AM - perfect for night fishing enthusiasts targeting striped bass.
This Week's Optimal Fishing Windows:
- Morning: 2 hours before to 1 hour after high tide
- Evening: Last 2 hours of outgoing tide
- Night: First 2 hours of incoming (stripers & weakfish)
Weather Impact on Fishing Activity
Current conditions show light northwest winds at 5-10 knots, keeping seas calm at 1-2 feet - ideal for both boat and surf anglers. The National Weather Service forecasts stable conditions through the weekend with no significant fronts approaching. This stability has fish in predictable patterns.
Barometric pressure sits at 30.12 and rising, typically triggering increased feeding activity. The combination of stable weather and optimal water temperatures has created what many captains are calling the "best bay flounder fishery in years."
Recent Catch Reports from Local Captains
Captain reports from the past 48 hours paint an exciting picture across all fishing zones. The current NJ saltwater scene is dominated by quality flounder, with boats averaging 3-5 keepers per trip in the 3-6 pound range. One lucky angler landed an 8-pound doormat in the back bays yesterday.
The offshore fleet returned with coolers full of yellowfin tuna yesterday, with most boats limiting out by noon. The bite started early at first light and continued through the morning, with spreader bars producing best. Several boats also reported encounters with small bluefin mixed in.
What's Biting in Cape May Now - Species Report
Inshore Species Update
Flounder continue to steal the show throughout Cape May waters. The back bays are producing exceptional action with keepers running 18-24 inches. Live minnows fished on the bottom during incoming tides are accounting for most quality fish. The deeper channels near Hereford Inlet are holding the largest specimens.
Black Drum have moved into evening feeding patterns, with fish to 60 pounds crushing clams and crabs on the bottom. The 6:00 PM trips have been particularly productive, especially around deeper channel edges and bridge pilings. These bruisers are providing exciting battles on medium-heavy tackle.
Striped Bass and Weakfish are showing up in better numbers around structure. Keepers to 35 inches are falling for live eels drifted near bridge pilings after dark. The weakfish bite has been sporadic but improving, with fish to 5 pounds taking small bucktails tipped with squid strips.
Bottom Fish action remains strong at the reefs. Sea bass are in "drop and reel" mode with easy limits on squid and clam baits. Triggerfish to 5 pounds are mixing in, providing excellent table fare. Tog fishing closed April 30th but reopens soon - mark your calendars.
Offshore Fishing Report
The canyon bite is firing on all cylinders for those making the run. Yellowfin tuna dominate catches, with fish averaging 40-60 pounds. The overnight chunk bite has been exceptional at the 100-fathom line. Daytime trolling with spreader bars and Green Machines behind birds is producing steady action.
Bigeye tuna are mixing with the yellowfins during night fishing sessions. These larger models to 150 pounds are taking chunk baits fished deep. Several boats reported double-headers when marking fish on the sounder and dropping baits directly to them.
Mahi and billfish encounters are increasing as water temperatures rise. Most mahi are being caught while trolling for tuna, with fish to 20 pounds common around floating debris. White marlin releases are being reported daily, with most coming on ballyhoo pitched to fish spotted on the surface.
Surf & Beach Fishing Update
The NJ surf fishing report today shows excellent opportunities from Cape May's beaches. The recent small surf has allowed bait to stack up in the wash, attracting predators. Flounder to 4 pounds are being caught on bucktails with squid strips worked slowly along the bottom.
Kingfish, spot, and croakers provide non-stop action for families fishing with bloodworms on bottom rigs. The evening hours are producing some surprises, with keeper striped bass and the occasional weakfish hitting cut bait. Small bluefish are terrorizing bait schools during the day.
Beach conditions remain excellent with light winds and clear water extending past the breakers. The key is finding the deeper cuts and holes where fish congregate. Look for areas where waves break differently - these indicate deeper water and better fishing.
Hot Spots: Where to Fish Cape May Today?
Top Bay & Inshore Locations
Great Bay's deep channels near marker 42 are the current flounder headquarters. Fish the 15-20 foot depths on the west side during incoming tide. This area has been consistently producing limits of keepers for boats drifting live minnows. The key is staying in the deeper water where larger fish patrol.
Hereford Inlet and the surrounding flats are loaded with a variety of species. The channel edges hold flounder while the shallower flats have excellent crabbing. Work the drop-offs where shallow water meets deep - these transition zones concentrate bait and predators.
Back bays behind the Wildwoods offer protected fishing when ocean conditions are rough. The maze of channels and islands provides endless opportunities. Focus on moving water areas near creek mouths where current creates ambush points for predatory fish.
Bridge and structure fishing is producing excellent sheepshead action. Fish to 7 pounds are crushing fiddler crabs and sand fleas around pilings. The trick is getting baits tight to structure where these bait stealers can't reach. Use heavy sinkers to hold position in current.
Prime Reef & Wreck Sites
Cape May Reef in 60 feet of water is the go-to spot for mixed bag fishing. Sea bass, flounder, and triggerfish are stacked on this structure. Anchor uptide and drift baits back to the structure for best results. The northwest corner has been particularly productive.
Wildwood Reef continues its reputation as a flounder magnet. The combination of hard bottom and sand pockets creates ideal habitat. Fish the edges where sand meets structure using bucktails tipped with 6-inch Gulp Swimming Mullets. This technique has been deadly on keeper flounder.
| Top Producing Reefs | Depth | Primary Species | Best Bait |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Grounds | 85-90 ft | Flounder, Sea Bass | Strip baits, Bucktails |
| Reef Site #11 | 65 ft | Flounder to 24" | Live minnows |
| Cape May Reef | 60 ft | Mixed bag | Squid, Clams |
| Wildwood Reef | 55 ft | Flounder, Triggers | Gulp, Strip baits |
The Old Grounds in 85-90 feet are producing the largest flounder of the season. This deeper water is holding fish to 24 inches, though the drift can be challenging. Use heavier bucktails (3-4 oz) to maintain bottom contact. The effort is worth it for quality over quantity.
Offshore Canyon Report
The Hudson Canyon is the current yellowfin headquarters, with consistent catches 65 miles from Cape May Inlet. The 100-fathom line along the east wall has been most productive. Chunk fishing at night with sardines is producing limits, while daytime trolling focuses on temperature breaks.
Baltimore Canyon offers a shorter run at 55 miles and has been producing mixed bags of yellowfin and bigeye. The tip has been best, especially where 72-degree water meets 76-degree water. This temperature break is visible on good electronics and consistently holds fish.
GPS Hot Zones:
- Hudson East Wall: 39°30.5'N, 72°10.2'W
- Baltimore Tip: 38°12.8'N, 73°45.6'W
- Wilmington Northwest Corner: 38°45.2'N, 72°58.4'W
Miss Chris Fishing Report & Fleet Updates
Recent Miss Chris Catches
The Miss Chris fleet has been capitalizing on the exceptional fishing with impressive daily catches. Yesterday's morning trip returned with limits of flounder for most anglers, including several fish over 5 pounds. The afternoon bottom fishing trip found non-stop sea bass action at the inshore wrecks.
Their recent black drum trips have been spectacular, with multiple fish over 40 pounds landed each evening. Captain Terry reports the bite typically starts around 5:30 PM and continues through sunset. Fresh clams fished on circle hooks are producing the most consistent action.
Captain's Insights & Patterns
Captain observations reveal flounder are following baitfish movements closely this season. The presence of massive schools of peanut bunker in the bays has kept predators close to shore. This explains why the typical August offshore migration hasn't materialized - the food source remains inshore.
The tuna patterns show fish are arriving at structure earlier than usual. Boats marking fish at 3:00 AM are having best success, as the bite often shuts down by 8:00 AM. This early bite pattern suggests adjusting departure times for optimal results.
Upcoming Trip Schedule & Availability
The Miss Chris fleet has expanded their schedule to accommodate demand. Morning flounder trips depart at 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, while afternoon bottom fishing leaves at 1:00 PM. The popular black drum trips now run nightly at 6:00 PM weather permitting.
Special tuna trips are scheduled for weekends, departing at 3:00 AM for the canyons. These 12-hour adventures have been producing exceptional catches. Book early as Cape May fishing report now shows conditions remaining ideal through month's end.
NJ Surf Fishing Report Today - Beach by Beach
Cape May Point State Park
The point continues to be the premier surf fishing destination. The deep water close to shore attracts a variety of species. Flounder to 23 inches are being caught on bucktails worked slowly along the bottom. The outgoing tide has been most productive here.
Parking fills early on weekends, so arrive before sunrise for best access. The jetty provides additional structure that holds fish. Cast parallel to the rocks and work baits back slowly. Kingfish and spot provide steady action between larger fish.
Sunset Beach to Higbee Beach
This stretch offers excellent variety for surf anglers. The gradually sloping beach creates perfect conditions for bottom fishing species. Croakers, spot, and kingfish are abundant using standard two-hook bottom rigs with bloodworms or squid strips.
The area near the concrete ship produces bigger fish, particularly during evening hours. Striped bass to 30 inches are hitting clams and bunker chunks as darkness falls. Set up 2 hours before high tide for optimal results in this zone.
Two Mile Beach Unit
Less crowded than other beaches, Two Mile offers excellent fishing with easier access. The beach structure features numerous cuts and holes that hold fish. These deeper pockets are visible during low tide - mark them for fishing when water returns.
Recent reports show good flounder action here, particularly on the north end. Small bucktails with pink or white teasers are outproducing bait. Work them slowly through the cuts where current creates feeding lanes for waiting predators.
Cape May Inlet Jetties
The jetties provide structure that attracts diverse species year-round. Current NJ fishing reports today show excellent tog and sheepshead action around the rocks. Green crabs fished on bottom near structure are ideal for these bait-stealers. Use heavy tackle to pull fish away from snags.
Night fishing produces weakfish and striped bass. Live spot or finger mullet fished under slip floats along the jetty edges are deadly. The last two hours of outgoing tide concentrate bait against the structure, triggering aggressive feeding.
Bait, Tackle & Techniques Working Now
Hot Baits by Species
| Species | Top Bait | Alternative | Presentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flounder | Live Minnows | 6" Gulp, Strip Baits | Drift or Slow Troll |
| Black Drum | Fresh Clams | Crabs | Bottom Rig |
| Striped Bass | Live Eels | Bunker Chunks | Drift at Night |
| Sea Bass | Squid Strips | Clams | High-Low Rig |
| Tuna | Sardine Chunks | Ballyhoo | Deep or Trolled |
| Weakfish | Squid/Bucktail | Live Spot | Light Tackle |
Proven Rigs & Presentations
The traditional fluke rig remains deadly - 36-inch leader with 4/0 wide gap hook behind a 3-ounce sinker. However, many anglers are finding success with modified versions. Adding a pink teaser 12 inches above the main hook doubles catches on slower days.
For black drum, simplicity works best. A basic fish-finder rig with 8/0 circle hook holds large baits in current. The key is using fresh bait - frozen clams produce far fewer strikes. Many successful anglers are following proper crab handling techniques to use fresh crab as premium bait.
Bucktailing for flounder requires specific techniques this season. The abundance of bait means fish are selective. Slow, methodical retrieves with occasional twitches trigger strikes. White buck-tails during sunny conditions, chartreuse when cloudy - this color selection matters more than usual.
Depth & Structure Patterns
Understanding depth preferences saves time and increases catches. Flounder are holding in 12-20 feet during peak feeding times, moving to 25-35 feet during midday heat. The thermocline at 30 feet is creating a barrier - fish are staying above it where oxygen levels remain high.
Structure fishing requires precision. Fish aren't scattered across entire reefs but concentrated on specific pieces. The up-current side of structure holds active feeders. Position boats to drift baits naturally into these strike zones. GPS marking productive spots ensures repeat success.
Pro Tips from Local Experts
Veteran captains share several key insights for current conditions. First, downsize hooks when fish are finicky - dropping from 4/0 to 2/0 wide gaps increases hookups significantly. Second, fresh bait outproduces frozen by a wide margin in clear water conditions.
The importance of quiet approaches can't be overstated in shallow, clear water. Shut down engines well before reaching fishing spots. Use push poles or electric motors for final positioning. This stealth approach is particularly critical for larger, wary flounder in skinny water.
Raritan Bay Fishing Report Today
Current Raritan Bay Conditions
The Raritan Bay fishing report today shows improving conditions after last week's rain runoff. Water clarity has improved to 3-4 feet visibility, triggering better feeding activity. Water temperatures at 74°F are slightly cooler than Cape May, affecting species behavior and timing.
Flounder fishing remains good but requires different tactics than Cape May. Fish are holding deeper - 25-35 feet versus the 15-20 foot pattern down south. Striped bass action is more consistent here, with schoolies abundant and keepers mixed in during dawn and dusk periods.
Species Activity Comparison to Cape May
While Cape May excels for variety, Raritan Bay offers better striped bass fishing currently. The bay's structure and bait concentrations keep bass residents all summer. However, Cape May's flounder fishing is superior, with more keepers and larger average size.
The weakfish showing in Raritan Bay exceeds Cape May's current action. Night anglers are finding good numbers of 2-4 pound fish around channel edges. This species difference reflects water temperature preferences and available forage. Both locations offer excellent fishing with different strengths.
Travel-Worthy Bite Analysis
For anglers debating the drive, Cape May's current fishing justifies the trip. The exceptional flounder action combined with variety makes it worthwhile. The chance for a mixed bag including flounder, sea bass, triggerfish, and drums offers more excitement than single-species fishing elsewhere.
Consider traffic and timing when planning trips between locations. Early morning departures avoid congestion and coincide with prime fishing windows. The Cape May fishing report 2025 season shows this is shaping up as a banner year worth the travel investment.
Current NJ Saltwater Fishing Regulations
Size & Bag Limits
| Species | Minimum Size | Daily Limit | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flounder | 18 inches | 3 fish | May 4 - Sept 19 |
| Striped Bass | 28" to <38" | 1 fish | Year-round |
| Black Sea Bass | 12.5 inches | 10 fish | May 15 - Dec 31 |
| Weakfish | 13 inches | 1 fish | Year-round |
| Black Drum | None | 3 fish | Year-round |
| Bluefish | None | 3 fish | Year-round |
Season Dates & Closures
New Jersey's fishing seasons reflect conservation needs while maximizing angling opportunities. Flounder season opened May 4th and continues through September 19th. The fall season reopens October 18th through December 31st with adjusted bag limits. These split seasons protect spawning fish while allowing harvest during peak abundance.
Sea bass regulations changed this year with an extended season but reduced bag limit. The 10-fish limit replaces last year's 15-fish limit, but the season now runs through December. Understanding current crabbing regulations is equally important for those pursuing blue crabs while fishing.
License Requirements
All anglers 16 and older need a New Jersey Saltwater Registry Program registration. This free registration is required for both boat and shore fishing. The registry helps manage fisheries through better harvest data. Registration is available online through the NJ Fish & Wildlife website.
Charter boat passengers don't need individual registrations - vessels carry blanket coverage. However, anyone fishing from private boats, kayaks, or shore must register. The process takes minutes online and provides access to regulation updates and fishing reports throughout the season.
Special Management Zones
Cape May features several special management areas requiring attention. The Cape May Reef Site has specific anchoring regulations to protect structure. Drifting is encouraged over anchoring to prevent gear damage. These artificial reefs are marked on charts and GPS units.
The Delaware Bay has separate regulations for certain species. Striped bass caught in the bay may have different size limits than ocean fish. Always verify current regulations before fishing new areas. Conservation officers regularly patrol popular spots and check for compliance.
Cape May Fishing Report 2025 - Seasonal Patterns
How This Year Compares?
The Cape May fishing report 2025 shows remarkable differences from recent years. The typical August offshore flounder migration hasn't materialized, with fish remaining in shallower bay waters. This pattern benefits recreational anglers who can access quality fishing without long runs to deep water.
Water temperatures are running 2-3 degrees above average, extending the variety of available species. The warmer conditions have Spanish mackerel arriving earlier and staying longer. Cobia sightings are increasing, suggesting expanding ranges for southern species as conditions change.
Unusual Patterns & Surprises
Several surprising patterns have emerged this season. The back bay flounder fishery is producing the best action in over a decade according to veteran captains. Fish that typically move offshore by late July are thriving in 15-20 feet of water well into August.
The black drum showing is exceptional for summer months. These fish usually peak in spring and fall, but consistent catches continue through the warm months. Evening trips are producing multiple fish over 40 pounds, providing exciting light tackle opportunities usually reserved for different seasons.
Long-Range Forecast
Looking ahead, conditions appear favorable through early fall. The tropical season could bring changes, but current patterns suggest extended good fishing. Water temperatures should remain elevated, keeping bait and predators inshore longer than typical years.
September historically produces excellent fishing as species prepare for migration. This year's patterns suggest an exceptional fall season ahead. The combination of abundant bait, favorable conditions, and healthy fish populations creates optimism for continued outstanding fishing through autumn.
Planning Your Cape May Fishing Trip
Best Tides This Week
Optimal Tide Windows - Next 7 Days:
Monday: High 5:47 AM / 6:12 PM Tuesday: High 6:35 AM / 7:01 PM
Wednesday: High 7:24 AM / 7:49 PM Thursday: High 8:12 AM / 8:37 PM Friday: High 9:01 AM / 9:26 PM Saturday: High 9:52 AM / 10:17 PM Sunday: High 10:45 AM / 11:11 PM
Plan trips around these high tides for best results. The two hours before high tide through one hour after provides peak feeding activity. Morning tides early in the week offer ideal conditions before weekend crowds arrive.
Weather Windows
This week's forecast shows exceptional stability with high pressure dominating. Light winds under 10 knots are expected through Friday. Seas remain 2 feet or less - perfect for small boat fishing. The weekend may see slightly increased winds but nothing prohibitive.
Temperature-wise, expect highs near 85°F with overnight lows around 70°F. These warm conditions keep fish active throughout the day. Early morning remains most comfortable for anglers while providing excellent fishing. Evening trips avoid heat while capitalizing on specific species patterns.
Charter vs DIY Fishing
Charter fishing offers advantages during this exceptional fishing period. Experienced captains have current intelligence on exact locations and successful techniques. The Miss Chris fleet and other reputable charters provide gear, bait, and expertise for guaranteed action.
DIY fishing remains excellent for those with boats and local knowledge. Launch ramps are busy but manageable with early arrivals. Bait shops open by 5:00 AM to accommodate the dawn patrol. Having your own boat allows flexibility to move between spots as conditions change.
Launch Ramps & Access Points
Cape May Area Launch Facilities:
- Cape May Harbor: Full service marina with fuel, bait, and parking
- Sunset Lake: Protected launch ideal for smaller boats
- Bree Zee Lee Marina: Quick ocean access, ample parking
- Hidden Harbor: Back bay access, less crowded
Arrive early on weekends as parking fills quickly at popular ramps. Consider mid-week trips for easier launching and better fishing pressure. Most ramps charge daily fees ranging from $15-30 for non-residents. Annual passes provide savings for frequent visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are biting in Cape May right now?
Currently, flounder dominate the inshore scene with exceptional catches of keepers to 9 pounds. Black drum to 60 pounds are crushing clams during evening hours. Sea bass fishing is in "drop and reel" mode at the reefs with easy limits. Offshore, yellowfin tuna are providing consistent action at the canyons with most boats limiting out.
Where can I find today's Cape May fishing report?
The most current Cape May fishing reports come from local tackle shops, charter captains, and online resources updated daily. Bait shops like Boulevard Bait and Tackle provide real-time reports from customers each morning. The Miss Chris Marina offers daily updates on their website and social media channels with actual catch photos.
What's the best bait for Cape May fishing today?
Live minnows are producing the most flounder in current conditions. For bigger fish, 6-inch Gulp Swimming Mullets or fresh strip baits on bucktails are deadly. Black drum prefer fresh clams or crab. Sea bass can't resist squid strips on high-low rigs. Match your bait to target species and current conditions for best results.
Are flounder running in Cape May?
Yes! The flounder fishing is exceptional right now with the best bay fishing in years. Fish are concentrated in 15-20 foot depths during incoming tides. Both keepers and larger fish to 24 inches are being caught daily. The back bays, channels near Hereford Inlet, and reef sites are all producing quality flounder.
How is the surf fishing in Cape May today?
Surf fishing conditions are excellent with calm seas and clear water. Flounder, kingfish, spot, and croakers are active from the beaches. Evening brings striped bass and weakfish possibilities. Cape May Point and the inlet jetties are producing best, but all beaches offer good action using appropriate baits and techniques.
Conclusion
Cape May's fishing scene is absolutely on fire right now, delivering some of the best action we've seen in years. From the back bays teeming with keeper flounder to the offshore grounds producing limits of yellowfin, every type of angler can find success. The unusual weather patterns keeping fish inshore have created exceptional opportunities for both boat and surf fishermen.
The next 48 hours look particularly promising with stable weather and optimal tides coinciding. Tomorrow morning's 6:35 AM high tide should produce excellent flounder fishing, while the evening session promises another round of spectacular black drum action. Weekend warriors should plan for early starts to beat crowds and catch the best bite windows.
Bookmark this page for daily updates as conditions change rapidly during peak season. Check our morning reports before heading out - we update catch information, hot spots, and techniques based on the latest captain feedback. Remember to verify current regulations and always prioritize safety on the water.
Final tip: The fish are here in incredible numbers, but they're getting pressured. Downsizing tackle, using fresh bait, and fishing less popular tide stages can make the difference between a good day and an exceptional one. Tight lines!
