The fishing opportunities surrounding Long Beach Island (LBI) continue to flourish, with enthusiasts catching an impressive array of species. Anglers have reported successful outings with fluke, kingfish, spot, bluefish, striped bass, sea bass, and even sharks. The ocean's bounty has kept fisherman busy, and there’s plenty to share.
Apologies for the lag in updates, but the increase in fishing activities has kept me occupied, said a local fishing expert. "This is the very reason I started the video reports. Typing takes a tremendous amount of time and this time of year I’m stretched thin." Despite the busyness, recent trips have provided consistent fluke catches in both the bay and inlet.
Utilizing a mix of live minnows and Gulp baits has proved effective. "On some days, live minnow is the ticket, especially when blowfish and baby sea bass destroy the Gulp quickly," the expert added. Anglers employing a large fish approach with live spot or snappers managed to land impressive catches as well.
In addition to targeting fluke, those fishing inshore wrecks are also catching triggerfish. "We weed through sea bass, out of season tog, and many other critters from fluke and blowfish to bluefish and porgy," said one angler who has been actively fishing in the area. The use of traditional sand fleas on a hi/lo rig equipped with #2 hooks has yielded some sizeable triggerfish.
Current fishing regulations are important to acknowledge. A downloadable chart detailing the 2025 New Jersey Saltwater Fishing Regulations is available, translating compliance into successful outings. Notably, the regulations for porgy, tautog, black sea bass, and fluke are outlined as follows:
- **Porgy/Scup:** Closed July and August, open the rest of the year with a 30 fish bag and a 10-inch minimum size. - **Tautog/Blackfish:** One fish at 15 inches, from August 1 to November 15. - **Black Sea Bass:** One fish at 12.5 inches from July 1 to August 31, closed in September. - **Fluke/Summer Flounder:** Three fish at 18 inches, with the season closing on September 25.
In the bay, fluke fishing has shown promise, particularly in main channels. Anglers have been finding success in deeper waters during the outgoing tide, with spot and blowfish also present in certain areas. "Fishing the docks, bulkheads, and deeper lagoons while using small hooks and worm or squid can provide opportunities for spot and blowfish," noted a regular fisherman in the region. In addition to this, crabbing and clamming are also viable options, with a word of caution regarding harvesting clams due to seasonal bacterial concerns.
Further offshore, echoes of excitement ring from the reefs and wrecks. Reports indicate that fluke fishing is thriving. The Miss Barnegat Light reported, "After two slower days, the fish decided to chew today,” showcasing some impressive fluke catches. Inshore structures are teeming with sea bass and ling, offering a reassuring sign for local anglers.
The surf fishing scene presents another notch in the belt for LBI's fishing community. Light tackle has proven successful for fluke catches, with Gulp Grubs and Jerk Shads leading the charge. "Most all of the action is on Gulp Grubs and Jerk Shads while fishing on a jig," an experienced surf fisherman remarked. For those braving rough conditions, casting at a 45-degree angle into the wind can improve results. This technique not only helps to maintain lure contact but can potentially yield excellent fish through the fall, making it a versatile approach.
Anglers should also be aware of the impressive inshore and mid-shore tuna fishing that has been described as phenomenal. Meanwhile, bluefish from snappers to cocktails are making appearances in the bay, inlet, and surf, while a surprising late summer showing of striped bass has enlivened the fishing landscape during the past week. The reports echo a clear theme: LBI is thriving with fishing activity, and the summer of 2025 is not to be missed.