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Top-Rated Summer Fishing in Highlands, NJ

  • Published Date: July 16, 2025
  • Fishing
  • Highlands, NJ
  • $850 - $1,050 price range

Summary

Get ready for a full day of summer fishing off the coast of Highlands, NJ. Our 7-hour trip takes you where the fish are biting, targeting seasonal favorites like Striped Bass and Bluefish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fishing, you'll have a great time on the water. We provide all the gear and licenses, so you can focus on reeling in the big ones. Don't forget to bring snacks and drinks to keep you fueled up for the action. As a bonus, we'll clean your catch at no extra charge. The ocean breeze, warm sun, and the tug of a fish on your line make for a perfect summer day out. It's a laid-back trip that's all about having fun and hopefully landing some impressive catches. Remember to bring a camera to capture your proudest moments. With room for up to 6 guests, it's a great way to spend time with friends or family on the water.
Top-Rated Summer Fishing in Highlands, NJ

Coastal Catches

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Striped bass caught in NJ

Sunrise fishing in Highlands, NJ

Striped bass caught while fishing in NJ

Fishing runs deep in Highlands

Striped bass fish caught by angler in Highlands

Jersey bass in the bag

Striped bass caught in the Highlands

Highlands mornings, rods bending

Striped bass caught in NJ

Reel time with Captain Sean

Striped bass caught in Highlands

Where saltwater meets success

Striped bass caught in Highlands

Bass fever hits the Jersey coast

Striped bass caught by a person in the Highlands

Sandy Hook Bay never disappoints

Striped bass caught in NJ

Fresh catch from Highlands waters

Striped bass measuring 26 inches, caught in NJ

Big fish, small town vibes

Striped bass caught in NJ

Sunrise fishing in Highlands, NJ

Striped bass caught while fishing in NJ

Fishing runs deep in Highlands

Striped bass fish caught by angler in Highlands

Jersey bass in the bag

Striped bass caught in the Highlands

Highlands mornings, rods bending

Striped bass caught in NJ

Reel time with Captain Sean

Striped bass caught in Highlands

Where saltwater meets success

Striped bass caught in Highlands

Bass fever hits the Jersey coast

Striped bass caught by a person in the Highlands

Sandy Hook Bay never disappoints

Striped bass caught in NJ

Fresh catch from Highlands waters

Striped bass measuring 26 inches, caught in NJ

Big fish, small town vibes

Striped bass caught in NJ

Sunrise fishing in Highlands, NJ

Striped bass caught while fishing in NJ

Fishing runs deep in Highlands

Striped bass fish caught by angler in Highlands

Jersey bass in the bag

Striped bass caught in the Highlands

Highlands mornings, rods bending

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Reel in Summer Fun: 7-Hour NJ Fishing Adventure

Hey there, angler! Ready to spend a day on the water chasing some of New Jersey's top gamefish? Our 7-hour summer trip out of Highlands is just the ticket. We'll cruise the coastline, drop lines, and hunt for the big ones that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need. So grab your shades and let's make some waves!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're lounging on the deck of our comfy boat, soaking up the summer sun with a cool breeze in your hair. We'll motor out to some prime fishing spots where the action's hot. You'll feel that telltale tug on your line as a feisty Striper takes the bait, or watch your rod bend double when a hard-fighting Bluefish decides it's lunchtime. Our experienced crew will be right there to help you land that trophy catch. And don't worry about packing heavy – we've got all the rods, reels, and bait you need. Just bring some snacks, your favorite drinks, and a camera to capture the memories. Oh, and don't forget the sunscreen!

Techniques & Terrain

We'll be hitting up some sweet spots along the Jersey Shore, targeting both inshore and nearshore waters. Depending on where the fish are biting, we might do some bottom fishing for Scup and Flounder, or switch it up with some trolling for Stripers and Blues. Our captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, so we'll be right where the action is. We'll show you how to work the bait, set the hook, and reel in your catch like a pro. And if you're new to fishing, no sweat – we'll walk you through everything step by step. By the end of the day, you'll be swapping fish stories with the best of 'em!

Top Catches This Season

Let's talk about what's swimming out there waiting for you. Our waters are teeming with some real crowd-pleasers that'll put your skills to the test and fill up your cooler.

Striped Bass: These bad boys are the rock stars of the Northeast coast. Stripers can grow to monster sizes, with some topping 50 pounds! They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps, so hang on tight when you hook one. Summer's a great time to target them as they chase bait along the shoreline.

Bluefish: If you want a fight, look no further. Blues are like the boxers of the sea – all muscle and attitude. They'll hit your bait like a freight train and keep you on your toes all the way to the boat. Plus, they're delicious on the grill!

Black Sea Bass: These guys might not be the biggest, but they're a blast to catch and even better to eat. They love structure, so we'll drop lines near wrecks and reefs where they hang out. Their flaky white meat is perfect for fish tacos.

Scup (Porgy): Don't let their size fool you – Scup are scrappy little fighters that are fun to catch and tasty to boot. They travel in schools, so when you find 'em, it's often non-stop action.

Southern Flounder: These flatfish are masters of camouflage, blending in with the sandy bottom. But we know their tricks, and once you hook one, you're in for a treat. Their sweet, delicate flavor makes them a favorite for the dinner table.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Our regulars will tell you – there's something special about fishing these waters. Maybe it's the thrill of never knowing what you'll catch next. Or the way the sun sparkles on the waves as you reel in your personal best. Could be the laid-back vibe on board, swapping stories and laughs with new friends. Whatever it is, it keeps folks coming back year after year.

And let's not forget the convenience factor. We take care of all the details so you can focus on the fun stuff. No need to fuss with licenses or lug around heavy gear. Just show up ready to fish, and we'll handle the rest. We'll even clean your catch at the end of the day, so you can head straight home with your fresh filets.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, let's get down to brass tacks. This 7-hour fishing bonanza is the real deal, and spots fill up fast – especially during peak summer months. We're talking about a full day of non-stop fishing action, with all the gear you need and a crew that knows how to put you on the fish.

Remember, we can take up to 6 people, so round up your buddies or bring the family for an unforgettable day on the water. And here's a pro tip: a 15-20% tip for the mate is standard practice. These guys work hard to make sure you have a great time and go home with a cooler full of fish.

So what are you waiting for? The fish are biting, the sun is shining, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Give us a call or book online to lock in your summer fishing adventure. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're reeling in that monster Striper or sharing fresh-caught fish tacos with your crew. Let's make some waves and some memories – see you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Black Sea Bass

Black sea bass are tasty bottom dwellers that put up a good scrap. Most run 1-3 pounds, with some topping 5. You'll find them around rocky structure and wrecks in 60-120 feet of water. Late spring through fall is prime time. Sea bass are fun to catch and excellent eating - their white, flaky meat is a real treat. To target them, drop squid or cut bait to the bottom on a simple two-hook rig. Once you find a school, the action can be fast. Here's a pro tip: when you feel a bite, set the hook quickly. Sea bass have small mouths and can steal bait if you hesitate. For a bonus, keep an eye out for bigger males with their distinctive blue humps during spawning season.

Black Sea Bass

Bluefish

Bluefish are aggressive predators that put up a mean fight. They average 3-5 pounds but can top 20. You'll find them chasing bait schools near the surface, often signaled by birds diving. Summer and early fall are prime seasons when they invade inshore waters. Blues are fun to catch - they hit hard and fight dirty. While not everyone's favorite for eating, they're good smoked or in fish dip. To catch them, look for feeding frenzies and cast metal lures or topwater poppers into the fray. Wire leaders are a must - those razor teeth will slice through mono. Local tip: when blues are around, have a rod rigged with a surface popper ready to cast. The explosive strikes are a blast!

Bluefish

Scup

Scup, or porgies, are fun to catch and tasty to eat. They usually run 8-12 inches and hang out near rocky bottoms and structures in depths of 20-120 feet. Late spring through fall is prime time to target them. Scup are scrappy fighters on light tackle and make for a great day of action, especially for kids or beginners. Their flaky white meat is excellent fried or baked. To catch them, use small hooks with clam, squid, or sandworms. A simple hi-lo rig works well - just drop it to the bottom and wait for the bite. Pro tip: chum with ground clams to really get them fired up. Be ready for some fast fishing once you find a school!

Scup

Southern Flounder

Southern flounder are masters of camouflage, blending in with sandy or muddy bottoms. They typically run 15-20 inches and 2-5 pounds. You'll find them in coastal waters, bays, and estuaries, often near structure. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they move in and out of inshore waters. Flounder put up a decent fight and are prized for their sweet, flaky meat. To catch them, use live bait like mud minnows or finger mullet on a Carolina rig. Slowly drag your bait along the bottom, feeling for that telltale thump. Here's a local trick: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Give the flounder time to swallow the bait, then reel down and lift. Patience pays off with these tasty flatfish!

Southern Flounder

Striped Bass

Striped bass are hard-fighting fish that can grow over 40 pounds, though most caught are in the 20-30 pound range. They hang out near structures like jetties, reefs, and sandbars. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate along the coast. Stripers put up an exciting fight and make great table fare. To catch them, look for birds working bait schools or use your fish finder to locate schools near bottom structure. Live bait like bunker or eels work well, but artificial lures can be effective too. When you hook one, hold on tight - these powerful fish will give you a workout! A local tip: try drifting live eels at night around bridge pilings for big stripers. Just be careful handling them - those gill plates are sharp.

Striped Bass

About the Henriques

Company vehicle

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yanmar

Maximum Cruising Speed: 19

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 315

Head out on a laid-back 7-hour summer fishing trip off the coast of Highlands, NJ. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned angler, you'll have a great time casting lines for Striped Bass, Bluefish, and other seasonal catches. Soak up some rays and fresh ocean air as you cruise along the shoreline. We provide all the gear and licenses you need - just bring snacks, drinks, and a camera to capture the action. With room for up to 6 people, it's perfect for a day out with friends or family. At the end, we'll clean your fish at no extra charge. Don't forget to tip your hardworking mate 15-20%, as that's not included in the price. Book your spot now for a fun summer day on the water filled with fishing, sun, and sea breezes!
Warden Sportfishing Charters LLC

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Discover the satisfaction of landing your biggest catch with Warden Sportfishing Charters and Captain Sean Carkeek in Highlands, NJ! Reserve your spot today to create lasting memories and reel in exciting action on the water. Act now to secure your place on the boat for an outing you’ll always remember!

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