Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In New Jersey

All about fishing for white and channel catfish in NJ.

Channel catfish and white catfish are found in many New Jersey waters. Major lakes with catfish include Clinton Reservoir, Greenwood Lake, Lake Hopatcong, Lake Musconetcong, Manasquan Reservoir, Mercer Lake, Monksville Reservoir, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Round Valley Reservoir, Spruce Run Reservoir, Swartswood Lake, Union Lake and Wanaque Reservoir. Rivers, small lakes and ponds are likely to contain catfish as well.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in New Jersey?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

New Jersey State Record Catfish

The state record channel catfish was caught from Lake Hopatcong.

The state record white catfish came out of Dallenbach Pond.

Catfish Fishing Video

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout New Jersey. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Information for states with catfish.