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Summer Bites Heating Up on the Jersey Shore
Belmar Basin - Monmouth, NJ
Belmar anglers are finding steady action both inshore and offshore as summer kicks into gear. Striped bass are still hanging around, especially during the early morning and late evening tides. Trolling spoons and mojos just outside Shark River Inlet has produced solid keepers, while light tackle anglers are picking off schoolies closer to the beach.
Fluke fishing is improving daily with more keepers showing up around the reefs and wrecks. Bucktails tipped with Gulp! in white or chartreuse are doing the trick. The Axel Carlson Reef is a hot spot right now, with reports of multiple limit catches. Sea bass are also cooperating, especially on deeper structure, with clams and squid getting the job done.
Offshore, tuna season is getting into full swing. The bluefin bite has been solid around the 30- to 60-mile marks, with anglers finding success on both the troll and chunk. Mahi are starting to make an appearance near the pots, offering bonus catches for those venturing farther out.
Whether you're hitting the back bays, ocean reefs, or offshore canyons, Belmar is delivering a little bit of everything right now. With warm weather and steady bites, now's the time to get on the water.