Largemouth Bass

Don't let Avon-by-the-Sea's coastal location fool you – there are some surprisingly good largemouth bass opportunities nearby. While the town itself is primarily known for its beaches, heading inland to the freshwater lakes and ponds of Monmouth County can yield some rewarding bass fishing. Spring and fall are prime times, as the bass are actively feeding before and after the summer heat. Look for submerged structure, weed lines, and lily pads in these smaller bodies of water. A local tip: Many of these ponds are best fished from a kayak or canoe due to limited shoreline access. Check local regulations, as some ponds may have restrictions on motorboats. The bass here tend to be on the smaller side, but they can be plentiful, offering a great chance to refine your techniques. Focus on using weedless lures or topwater baits near heavy cover, as the bass often ambush prey from these areas. Be sure to check out Deal Lake – though brackish, it is known to hold decent populations of largemouth.