Bluefish

Point Pleasant, New Jersey, is a bluefish haven, especially during their spring and fall migrations. These aggressive feeders are drawn to the abundant baitfish in the area, making the Manasquan River, Barnegat Bay, and the nearby Atlantic Ocean prime locations. Look for blitzing schools of bluefish feeding on bunker or sand eels. Casting poppers, spoons, or swimming plugs into the fray is a surefire way to hook up. Trolling is another effective method, particularly around Shrewsbury Rocks. Remember that bluefish are notorious for their sharp teeth, so use wire leaders to avoid getting cut off. The abundance of boat ramps and marinas in Point Pleasant makes access easy. Local tip: Check the tide charts, as bluefish activity often increases during strong tidal flows. Don't be afraid to experiment with different lure retrieves to find what the fish are responding to on any given day.