Belmar Basin - Monmouth, NJ Fishing Report on 2nd May, 2025

The spring bite is heating up in Belmar, NJ! Anglers heading out this week have found solid action both inshore and offshore, with water temps rising steadily and fish moving into their seasonal patterns.

Inshore: Sea bass season kicked off strong with solid numbers coming from local reefs and wrecks. Most fish are being caught in 60 to 90 feet of water, with clam and squid doing the trick. Flounder are beginning to show up in the back bays and nearshore areas, with early keepers coming from sandy drop-offs. The bite should only improve as water warms.

Offshore: Tuna fishing charters out of Belmar NJ are starting to see early bluefin activity about 60-80 miles out. Trolling has produced the best results, with a few boats also picking up action on the chunk. Shark reports are trickling in, especially thresher and mako sightings around canyon edges. Conditions look good for a productive early offshore season.

Best Baits & Techniques: Chumming and trolling remain the go-to offshore methods for tuna and shark. Inshore, drifting with bait rigs or jigging over structure has been productive for sea bass. Gulp and minnows are solid options for flounder right now.

Weather & Conditions: Mornings have been calm, with increasing winds in the afternoon. Most trips are finding a favorable weather window between sunrise and early afternoon. Always check local marine forecasts before heading out.

Whether you’re hopping on a Belmar New Jersey fishing guide for a half-day trip or booking one of the best tuna fishing guides in Belmar for an offshore run, the season is off to a promising start. Now’s a great time to get out there!