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Highlands, NJ Fish Species
Fish Season Calendar
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Guide's Targeted Fish Species In June
Common Highlands, NJ Fish Species Questions
What fish species can I catch in Highlands, NJ?
In Sandy Hook Bay and nearby inshore waters you’ll commonly find Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Black Seabass, Porgy, and Tautog. Warden Sportfishing LLC targets these species year-round aboard our fully equipped 35’ Henriques.
When is Striped Bass season in Highlands, NJ?
Peak Striped Bass runs occur in spring (late April–June) and fall (September–November). Captain Sean Carkeek times his trips to match these migrations for top striped bass fishing results.
What bait and tackle work best for Striped Bass in Sandy Hook Bay?
Live bunker, clams, and eels are top baits. We supply heavy spinning rods paired with 20–30 lb braided line and circle hooks to match local regulations and maximize your catch.
Are there flounder in Highlands, NJ and when can I catch them?
Yes—summer flounder (fluke) arrive by early May and stick around through September. We use drifting and jigging techniques over sandy flats to put fresh flounder in your cooler.
What’s the best way to target Bluefish in Highlands waters?
Bluefish chase fast-moving lures like metal spoons or topwater plugs. Our guides know the hot spots in Sandy Hook Bay where bluefish congregate at dawn and dusk for the best action.
Can I catch Black Seabass on an inshore trip?
Absolutely. Black Seabass gather around structure from spring into fall. We deploy bottom rigs with cut bait and small jigs to entice seabass on our 4- to 7-hour trips.
When is Tautog season, and what’s the daily bag limit?
Tautog season runs April 1 – May 31 (spring) and October 1 – December 31 (fall). The current daily limit is 2 fish per angler (minimum size 16′′). Warden Sportfishing LLC keeps you compliant with all NJ saltwater rules.
What size Porgy (Scup) can I expect, and is there a size limit?
Most porgy run 10 – 14 inches, with a minimum NJ size of 9 inches. We use small hooks and squid strip bait to fill your cooler with Scup on every half-day outing.
Do I need a fishing license for Highlands, NJ charters?
No—our charter fee covers all required NJ saltwater licenses for up to six guests. Simply bring snacks, drinks, and a camera; we handle the rest.
What’s the best time of day for inshore fishing in Sandy Hook Bay?
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most consistent bite for striped bass and bluefish. Warden Sportfishing LLC’s 6-Hour Morning and 5-Hour Afternoon trips are timed to maximize these prime windows.
A Warden Sportfishing Charters LLC Fishing Charter targets the top Highlands, NJ Fish species including Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Scup (Porgy), Black Seabass, Tautog. We primarily Fish the Atlantic Ocean, Raritan Bay, Wampum Brook, Oyster Bay, Lewis Point, Locust Point, Blackberry Bay, Swimming River, Highlands Reach, Nut Swamp Brook, Shrewsbury Bay.
