Guide To The Thrill Of Fishing For Salmon In New Jersey

All about fishing for Atlantic, landlocked salmon in New Jersey

New Jersey is not widely known for salmon fishing, as the state's waters do not have significant wild salmon populations. However, the state does offer limited opportunities for anglers to catch salmon through stocking programs and occasional runs of migratory fish.

One species of salmon that can be found in New Jersey's waters is the Atlantic salmon. The state's Division of Fish and Wildlife conducts periodic stocking of Atlantic salmon in selected rivers and streams. These fish are typically raised in hatcheries and released into the designated waterways to provide recreational fishing opportunities. Anglers targeting Atlantic salmon in New Jersey often employ fly fishing techniques and focus their efforts during specific seasons when the fish are more active.

In addition to Atlantic salmon, anglers in New Jersey may encounter other salmon species during their fishing endeavors. Occasionally, salmon species like Chinook salmon and coho salmon make their way into New Jersey's waters during their annual migration along the Atlantic coast. While these occurrences are rare, they can provide exciting opportunities for anglers targeting salmon.

It's important to note that New Jersey's salmon fishing opportunities are limited and depend on stocking programs and natural migrations. Anglers interested in salmon fishing in the state should stay informed about stocking schedules, regulations, and the availability of migratory fish runs.

While salmon fishing may not be a primary focus in New Jersey, the state offers diverse fishing opportunities for other species such as bass, trout, catfish, panfish, and more. Anglers can explore the state's lakes, ponds, rivers, and coastal waters to enjoy a wide range of fishing experiences throughout the year.

Lake Aeroflex, Tilcon Lake and Wawayanda Lake are the lakes stocked with salmon in NJ. All other salmon fishing is in costal waters and the tributary waters flowing into the Atlantic ocean.

Click the images and links above for species details.

New Jersey State Record Salmon

The state record Atlantic salmon was caught from Lake Aeroflex.

New Jersey Salmon Fishing

The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies, as well as a variety of other lures and baits.

About The Pacific Salmon Family

Pacific Salmon are born in and remain in freshwater streams for the early years of life. The number varies by species. Afterward they migrate to the Pacific Ocean waters where they bulk up and prepare for their once in a lifetime spawning run up the freshwater stream where they were born. They will instinctively return to their birthplace, spawn and die. They are found in the streams which empty into the ocean and adjoining ocean waters.

Salmon fishing waters and information, by state.