What fish can you catch in the winter in NJ?

Cold water poses the fine opportunity for catching walleye and muskie from the river. Feeding activity from each increases during the winter. Walleye spawn during the late winter, so females must nourish eggs throughout the coldest period. On cold windy days, persistence really pays off.

Can you fish in the winter in New Jersey?

Not anymore! Trout fishing in New Jersey is now a year-round reality. The Winter Trout Stocked Lakes Program began in November, 2000. The program provides additional opportunities during the late fall and winter months by providing trout outside the regular spring and fall stocking seasons.

What freshwater fish are in season in NJ?

Size, Season & Creel Limits

Season
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass
Largemouth Bass Jan. 1–April 14 April 15–June 15 Catch & Release only (all waters) June 16–Dec. 31
Smallmouth Bass
Northern Pike, Tiger Musky, Muskellunge*

Can you fish in the winter?

Shallow bays that are sheltered from the wind and receive plenty of sunshine are natural areas to attract fish in winter. The shallow water will warm up quickly in the sun and attract fish like a magnet. If you can get a bait into areas like this, your chances of catching in the cold will skyrocket.

Can you catch flounder in the winter?

Fishing for winter flounder can be just as productive as the spring and summer months as long as your timing and location is just right. Winter is spawning season for flounder, and you may have to go offshore to catch them during this time.

Where can I fish freshwater in NJ?

Where to Freshwater Fish in New Jersey

  • South Branch of the Raritan River for rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout.
  • Lake Waywayanda in Waywayanda State Park for landlocked Atlantic salmon.
  • Mercer Lake in Mercer County Central Park for largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, and yellow perch.

Can you surf fish in the winter?

Surf fishing is a blast when it’s warm but when things get cold, surf fishing truly heats up. Some of the best surf fishing happens in the winter when the conditions are right. Not to mention, winter brings fewer crowds and less competition on the beach. That leaves more room to cast and a whole lot more fish to catch.

How do you fish in a lake in the winter?

Another winter fishing tactic is to use a smaller sized lure. During these colder months, a fish doesn’t need to feed as often, and they find smaller prey easier to digest and catch. If you present them with something small and slow, you’re mimicking their natural feeding preferences during this season.

How do you catch winter flounder in NJ?

Winter Flounder Bait Small pieces of clam, mussel, or bloodworm are the preferred baits for flounder. Anytime I shuck clams, I keep the siphons and thread them on the hook as bait. Sandworms, bloodworms, and tapeworms can all be cut into 2- to 3-inch lengths.