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NJ Fishing License Guide for Travelers

Bluefish

Great July Fishing


Summer Flounder

Striped Bass

<div>Another great past 2 weeks of trips. Had Joe out again this time with his dad from Virginia before the Eagles return to camp tomorrow followed by some newcomer’s on the bay. Plenty of firsts including bass and blues on soft plastics and plugs. We are still seeing 30+ fluke bites each trip along with keepers. We should have continued great fishing after the wind this week as there is no shortage of bait and we should see another upwelling.</div>

<div>Shimano 7’ Teramar Northeast XX 3/8-1oz paired with a Shimano Stradic 3000XG</div><div> </div>

Fresh caught striped bass on boat deck in Barnegat Light NJ

Southern flounder caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing rod with bent line during active catch from boat in Barnegat Light NJ waters

White fishing boat equipped with multiple fishing rods and net docked at marina in Barnegat Light NJ

Bluefish caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ

Striped bass catch displayed on fishing charter boat in Barnegat Light NJ

Southern flounder caught fishing in Barnegat Light NJ

Southern flounder caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing rod bent during active catch from boat in ocean waters at sunset near Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing action on boat with bent rod indicating fish caught in Barnegat Light NJ waters

Angler with bent fishing rod on boat during sunset fishing trip in Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing rods with reels arranged in rod holders on boat deck in Barnegat Light NJ waters

Awesome Trop

<div>Today we had Blake from North Jersey aboard for his first trip on the Barnegat Bay. he absolutely crushed it frok start to finish. We started off catching a nice houndfish and great sized bluefish on poppers and soft plastics. As the tide slowed up we made a move to begin fluking where we quickly lost count and even had a chance to catch dinner! blake caught biggest fish of the day on a 3/4 jig head tipped with a 4” gulp grib as the fluke were deefing heavily on soearing, shrimp, and peanut bunker. </div>

<div>7’ 3/8-1oz Shimano Teramar Northeast XX Paired with a 3000 Shimano Excense. </div>

Fluke caught on fishing hook held over blue ocean water near Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing rod bent with catch during ocean fishing trip in Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing rod bent with hooked fish during deep sea fishing charter off Barnegat Light NJ

Breaded and fried seafood appetizer with dipping sauce and lemon wedges served on white plate in Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing rod bent with catch on charter boat in Barnegat Light NJ waters

Large fish caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Bluefish caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Summer flounder caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Great Fishing Continues

<div>Every trip this past week saw great Fluke action on gulp grubs, shrimp, and jerkshads. With so many fish around we also started using minnows. Now is the time to get in on the fluke action! </div>

<div>3000 Shimano Stradic paired with a 7’ Shimano Teramar Northeast XX 3/8-1oz and a 3/4oz jighead.</div>

California flounder caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Southern flounder fishing success in Barnegat Light NJ

Southern flounder caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Southern Flounder caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ with fishing lure

Two freshly caught flatfish lying in boat cooler from Barnegat Light NJ fishing charter

Summer flounder caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ

Fluke Bite is On!

<div>The past few trips leading up to the full moon we have seen more fluke than we have all season. It is definitely safe to say that they are finally here and willing to eat! We have seen over 50 fluke including a bunch of keepers to 22”. The ticket has been a gulp 6” jerkshad on a 3/4oz jig head as well as a 3” shrimp on a 1/2oz jig head. Either casting or just dropping down has been very successful. The weather coming up looks perfect don’t miss out on the best fluke action of the year!</div>

<div>7’ G Loomis NRX 1/10-1/5oz paired with a Shimano Excense 2500 and 10 pound braid - perfect for finesse fishing fluke!</div>

White Parker fishing boat with Yamaha outboard motor and fishing equipment in Barnegat Light NJ waters

Summer flounder caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ measured on boat deck

Summer flounder caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ with fishing lure

Two summer flounder caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ displayed on boat deck

Pacific halibut caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ lying in fishing net

Summer flounder caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ held in landing net

Summer flounder caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ with orange jig lure

Incredible Fishing

<div>Fishing continues to get better and better as we landed over 100 bass on light tackle using plugs and soft plastics this past week as well as gator bluefish and solid fluke action! Fluking will be prime the next couple of weeks. Don’t miss out!</div>

<div>3000 sized reels paired with 7’ medoum power rods. Spooled with 15 pound braid and 20 pound leader. </div>

Large fish caught on fishing charter boat in Barnegat Light New Jersey

Striped bass caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ at sunset

Striped bass caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ measured against fishing rod

Striped bass caught on fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ with pink lure in mouth on boat deck

Striped bass caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ

Striped bass caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Striped bass caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ at sunset

Striped bass caught on fishing charter with blue lure in Barnegat Light NJ

The summer transition is in full swing here on Barnegat Bay. With water temperatures steadily climbing this June, the backwater estuaries and shallow flats are holding a solid variety of bait, bringing our target species right into their feeding zones.

Current Bite & Techniques
Striped Bass: The early morning "Magic Hour" trips have been highly productive. We are finding active bass working the quiet marsh edges right at dawn. Walking topwater plugs across the surface has been the most effective presentation before the sun gets too high and the boat traffic increases.

Summer Flounder (Fluke): The fluke have settled down into their summer patterns across the clear water flats. We are seeing a healthy class of keeper-sized fish. Technical casting with soft plastic paddletails on light jig heads is currently outperforming traditional heavy setups, especially when we use the trolling motor to quietly slide along the drop-offs.

Bluefish: We are regularly encountering moving schools of bluefish pushing bait in the channels. When they surface, casting fast-retrieving plugs into the mix results in immediate, aggressive hookups on light tackle.

Spotted Weakfish: A very welcome sight in the unpressured backwaters. The side-scan sonar has been instrumental in locating small pods of weakfish holding near deeper estuarine structure. A slow, precise presentation with small soft plastics is getting them to bite.

Captain's Note
Staying stealthy remains the absolute key to our recent success. By avoiding the heavily crowded spots and relying on the trolling motor to navigate less pressured areas, we are able to present artificial lures naturally to unspooked fish.

If you are planning a trip soon, getting on the water early for the 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM departures will give you the absolute best shot at a multi-species day before the midday heat sets in.

Large striped bass caught during fishing charter in Barnegat Light NJ

Topwater Bites and Consistent Fluke in the Shallows

Philadelphia Eagle Grand Slam

Spotted Weakfish

<div>Some great trips over the past few weeks with charters throwing both plastics and plugs to plenty of hungry striped bass and bluefish in the bay. Always great to see the excitement of anglers catching their first bass on topwater with light tackle. Fluking has been on the slower side but things did pick up the past week and should improve coming off of the new moon. </div><div>A huge shoutout to Myles and John from the Philadelphia Eagles on coming out for a trip as minicamp winded down this past week. They caught a Barnegat Bay Grand Slam using poppers and plastics. Our first one of the season. Both have fished around the country throughout their football careers and really enjoyed the bay. I have prime availability coming up next week starting 6/23. Message for a 1-2 person trip throwing lures on the Barnegat Bay.</div>

<div>3/8-1oz 7’ rods with 3000 sized reels throwing poppers, swimming plugs, jig heads, and bucktails.</div>

Small fishing boat on calm water near Barnegat Light NJ

Striped bass caught on fishing hook being lifted from water near Barnegat Light NJ

Squeteague fish catch displayed on fishing boat in Barnegat Light NJ waters

Striped bass caught during fishing trip in Barnegat Light NJ at sunset

Summer flounder caught fishing in Barnegat Light NJ

Bluefish catch on fishing boat in Barnegat Light NJ

Learn step-by-step Fishing techniques, tips, and best practices from Hog Moon Fishing LLC in Barnegat Bay. Build skills and adventure with confidence.

Barnegat Bay Fishing How-To Guides | Hog Moon Fishing LLC

Hog Moon Fishing is a premier inshore and nearshore fishing charter operating out of Barnegat Bay, New Jersey. Founded and guided by Captain Daniel Dipasquale, a licensed professional with deep local roots, Hog Moon Fishing specializes in a highly technical, lure-only approach to light tackle angling. Launching conveniently from Bobbie’s Boats Bait &amp; Tackle at 701 Bayview Avenue, the business provides personalized trips for anglers who appreciate stealth, advanced electronic tracking, and precision casting. Unlike standard charters that rely on live bait or crowded fishing spots, Captain Daniel focuses on the extensive estuaries, shallow flats, and quiet marshes of the bay. Utilizing high-end side-scan technology and a trolling motor, the charter tracks down prime local species, including striped bass, summer flounder (fluke), bluefish, and spotted weakfish. Our primary techniques center on topwater plugs, specialized jig heads, and soft plastics, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned anglers and those looking to improve their artificial lure presentation. The charter operates an immaculate 21-foot SE Parker Center Console, powered by a highly reliable 2024 Yamaha 200HP 4-stroke engine capable of cruising at 40 knots. This ensures guests spend less time traveling and more time casting. While the peak season runs from June through September with a variety of morning, afternoon, and evening back-bay trips, Hog Moon Fishing also features highly sought-after fall ocean striped bass trips along the beaches from November to early December. For families and visitors looking to enjoy the local scenery of Long Beach Island without the fishing rods, relaxing 2-hour sunset and wildlife cruises are also available year-round. Premium rods, reels, and specialized artificial tackle are provided, and a 2-day cancellation policy ensures booking flexibility. Guests are simply required to bring their New Jersey saltwater fishing license to complete a seamless day on the water. Book your next Barnegat Bay fishing charter with Hog Moon Fishing to experience the advantage of technical light tackle angling.

EPSG:4269

Large striped bass caught during fishing tour in Barnegat Light NJ

Large striped bass caught on fishing lure being held on boat deck in Barnegat Light NJ

Striped bass caught on fishing lure in Barnegat Light NJ

Fishing boat with multiple rods at sunset in Barnegat Light NJ waters

Fishing boat with angler casting line in blue ocean waters near Barnegat Light NJ

Another great past 2 weeks of trips. Had Joe out again this time with his dad from Virginia  before the Eagles return to camp tomorrow followed by som

Today we had Blake from North Jersey aboard for his first trip on the Barnegat Bay. he absolutely crushed it frok start to finish. We started off catc

Every trip this past week saw great Fluke action on gulp grubs, shrimp, and jerkshads. With so many fish around we also started using minnows. Now is 

Secure your spot on the water with Hog Moon Fishing in Barnegat Bay to master the flats and land your next trophy catch. Reserve your date online today and join us for an unforgettable day of precision light tackle fishing!

Discover the premier choice for technical light tackle fishing with Hog Moon Fishing, operating out of Barnegat Bay, New Jersey. Guided by Captain Daniel Dipasquale, an expert local guide with a deep-rooted history in these backwaters and three years of professional guiding experience, our charters specialize in precision artificial lure presentations. Whether you want to cast topwater plugs for early-morning striped bass, jig for summer flounder (fluke) on the clear flats, or target aggressive bluefish and weakfish in unpressured estuaries, the customized 21-foot SE Parker center console is perfectly equipped. Utilizing Garmin side-scan technology, thru-hull transducer, radar, a trolling motor, and additional feature's Captain Daniel bypasses the crowded tourist spots to position you exactly where the fish are. Safety is a top priority as the boat is inspected yearly to ensure it is up-to-date with USCG standards.&nbsp;Designed around guest comfort and maximizing your time on the water, we offer a versatile range of options tailored for seasoned anglers, beginners, and families alike. From focused back-bay striped bass sessions to relaxing, family-friendly sunset cruises around the Long Beach Island area, we combine premium gear, specialized tackle, and competitive rates to deliver a seamless experience. With all high-end rods and reels included and a convenient departure point from Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle, your day on the water is completely hassle-free. Don’t miss out on the peak seasonal bites or specialized fall ocean runs—book your fishing trip today to secure your date with a dedicated local specialist.

Captain Daniel Dipasquale’s connection to the New Jersey coastline began long before he established himself as a professional guide. Spending his formative years exploring the extensive estuary systems of Barnegat Bay, he developed an early fascination with the subtle patterns of local marine life. Over the decades, that curiosity evolved into a deep, technical understanding of how tides, moon phases, and seasonal migrations dictate fish behavior in shallow water. For Daniel, spending time on the water is not just a profession; it is a lifelong study of the delicate ecosystems that make these coastal environments thrive. As an expert local guide specializing in advanced light tackle tactics, Captain Daniel focuses his efforts on the art of artificial lure fishing. He has spent years refining specialized presentations, learning precisely how to manipulate topwater plugs, soft plastics, and jigs to trigger aggressive strikes from wary backwater predators. This dedication to a stealthy, technical approach allows him to steer clear of crowded, overfished areas and instead locate unpressured flats and quiet sod-bank channels where fish naturally gather. His goal on every outing is to share this specialized knowledge, offering guests a deeper look into the strategy behind the sport. On every trip, Captain Daniel prioritizes clear communication, patience, and a welcoming environment for anglers of all backgrounds. He believes that a great day on the water is built on a foundation of trust, clear instruction, and shared camaraderie. Whether he is explaining how to read side-scan sonar imagery, demonstrating a specific casting angle, or helping a beginner dial in their retrieval rhythm, his approachable teaching style ensures that everyone finishes the day as a more knowledgeable angler. Guests step off his boat not only having experienced the local resource firsthand, but possessing a better understanding of the mechanics behind a successful day of fishing. <h2>The Vessel: Engineered for the Flats</h2>Supporting these technical excursions is a custom-rigged 21-foot SE Parker center console, a vessel widely recognized for its stability, clean layout, and exceptional performance in shallow coastal environments. Powered by a dependable 200 horsepower Yamaha four-stroke outboard engine, the boat is engineered to navigate thin water stealthily while providing a smooth, dry ride across open bays. The wide-open deck offers ample casting space for guests, while integrated side-scan sonar technology and a quiet GPS-guided trolling motor allow for precise positioning along sensitive marsh edges. Fully stocked with premium light tackle rods, specialized reels, and all necessary safety gear, the vessel serves as a reliable, highly functional platform tailored for exploring the diverse waters of Barnegat Bay.

Expert Local Guide Specializing In Technical Light Tackle

Fishing Reports

Plan your perfect Barnegat Light getaway! From the historic lighthouse to local dining and parks, discover the best land-based activities in our coastal town.

Barnegat To Dos

Discover Barnegat Light’s Best Spots

Premium 5-hour inshore fishing trips targeting striped bass, flounder & bluefish. Book today!

NJ Backwater Fish

NJ Backwaters Inshore Fishing Hog Moon Guide

Join Hog Moon's focused 2-hour evening striped bass inshore trip at Bobbie's Boats. Book now.

Evening Striper

Evening Striped Bass Inshore Hog Moon Bobbie's

Six-hour inshore striped bass trips from Bobbie's Boats. Weekend charters target migrating fish with top-tier gear. Book your fall run today.

Ocean Striper Run

Hog Moon Inshore Striped Bass Bobbie's Boats

Expert guided inshore flounder fishing in Barnegat Bay. 5-hour morning charters from June-September. Book your NJ fishing adventure today.

Bay Flounder Hunt

Hog Moon Summer Flounder Barnegat Bay Charter

Expert guided 5AM topwater striped bass trip in Barnegat Bay. Book your dawn charter today.

Dawn Striper Hunt

Dawn Topwater Barnegat Bay Hog Moon Bass Trip

Two-hour guided wildlife tours through Barnegat Bay marshes and habitats. Family-friendly sunset departures from Bobbie's Boats.

Bay Sunset Tour

Sunset Wildlife Tours Barnegat Bay Hog Moon

Expert guided 4 hour inshore fishing for striped bass, bluefish & fluke in Barnegat Bay.

Bay Bass Hunt

4 Hour Bay Fishing Adventure

Barnegat Bay Fishing Charters Frequently Asked Questions﻿What is included in a Hog Moon Fishing charter in Barnegat Bay?Every trip includes top-tier light tackle rods, reels, specialized artificial lures, fuel, safety gear, side-scan sonar tracking, and professional fish cleaning at the end of the day. What is the best time of year to fish the New Jersey backwaters?The peak seasonal bite runs from June through September for summer flounder and bluefish, while November through early December offers excellent opportunities for migratory ocean striped bass. How much does an ocean striped bass fishing charter cost in Barnegat Bay?Our specialized 6-hour fall ocean striped bass trip costs $800 and covers up to two guests for an exclusive, technical weekend run along the coastal beaches. Do I need to bring my own gear on a Hog Moon Fishing guided trip?No, you do not need to bring your own gear as we supply all the premium light tackle, specialized rods, and custom artificial lures required to target local species effectively. Is fish cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip?Yes, professional fish cleaning and filleting are completely included for all legal keeper-sized fish caught during your time on the water. What types of trips does Hog Moon Fishing offer near Long Beach Island?We offer 5-hour morning or afternoon multi-species trips, 3-hour dawn magic hour sessions, 2-hour evening striped bass trips, and private, family-friendly sunset cruises. What should guests bring along for their Barnegat Bay fishing trip?Anglers need to bring a valid New Jersey Saltwater Fishing Registry certificate, weather-appropriate clothing, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and any personal food or beverages. Where do your guided fishing trips depart from in New Jersey?All of our scheduled charters depart directly from Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle, providing immediate access to the most productive channels and unpressured backwater flats. What specific fish species do you target during the summer season?From June through September, our primary targets include summer flounder (fluke), striped bass, bluefish, and spotted weakfish utilizing advanced artificial lure presentations.

Quiet Barnegat Bay Flats And Inshore Ocean Beaches

Air fee

Bait's fee

Divemaster's Fee

Mate's fee

Nitrox fee

Service Fee

State Taxes

Trimix fee

Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

Running from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this two-hour short session focuses on the late bite as temperatures drop. Priced at $250 for a maximum of three anglers, departures take place at Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle. It is a highly focused, localized effort utilizing soft plastics and jigs. Suitable for those wanting a brief, technical casting session. The boat provides all high-quality rods, reels, and necessary bait-free tackle. Participants must obtain their saltwater registry prior to departure. Guarantee your evening on the bay by booking today.

Hog Moon

2 hrs 

Evening Guided Trip, Striped Bass

This five-hour afternoon option starts at 3:00 PM, running June through September from Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle. Priced at $550 for up to three guests, it is ideal for anglers of varying skill levels who prefer a later schedule. The primary focus involves using topwater plugs and jig heads to locate active fish in less pressured areas. Premium tackle, rods, reels, and catch processing are included. Guests must bring a valid saltwater license. Reserve your afternoon casting session to ensure availability.

5 hrs 

Guided Inshore Fishing Trip, New Jersey Backwaters

Targeting the prime topwater bite, this three-hour outing departs at 5:00 AM from Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle. Focused entirely on early feeding patterns, the $375 package accommodates up to three guests. Anglers with a basic understanding of casting will benefit from the specialized light tackle approach in shallow waters. All necessary gear, artificial lures, and fish cleaning services are supplied. A valid state fishing registry is required to participate in this localized charter. Secure your dawn session for the best topwater opportunities.

Early Morning Barnegat Bay Guided Trip, Striped Bass

Departing at 6:00 AM from Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle, this five-hour morning outing runs from June through September. Geared toward all skill levels, guests will cast artificial lures in the quiet backwaters to locate local species like fluke and bluefish before the mid-day heat sets in. The rate is $550 for up to three passengers. High-end rods, reels, specialized tackle, side-scan technology, and fish cleaning are provided. A New Jersey Saltwater Fishing License is required prior to arrival. Lock in your morning on the water to secure your date.

Half Day Barnegat Bay Fishing Charter, Summer Flounder

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Divemaster Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Trimix Fee

Perfect for beginners, families, and those seeking a quiet time on the water without rods and reels, this two-hour scenic route departs at 5:00 PM. Available for up to three passengers at $250, departures leave from Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle. The route highlights local habitats, marshes, and natural scenery utilizing the quiet efficiency of a modern center console. Guests are encouraged to bring their own refreshments and cameras. Reach out directly to coordinate the exact date and timing for your private tour.

Barnegat Bay Guided Trip, New Jersey Wildlife

<div>4 hour trip for light tackle striped bass, bluefish, and/or fluke in the Barnegat Bay.&nbsp;</div>

4.00hour

4 Hour Bay

Available exclusively on weekends from November to early December, this six-hour inshore route tracks large migratory fish along the beaches. Departing at 5:30 AM from Bobbie's Boats Bait &amp; Tackle, the rate is $800 for a maximum of two guests. This specialized option requires cold-weather preparation and caters to anglers interested in technical presentations in cooler conditions. The boat supplies top-tier rods, reels, and heavy artificial lures. Ensure your state saltwater license is active. Schedule your fall weekend run before the season closes.

How To Guide

NJ Fishing License Guide for Travelers

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