Charter Fishing in NJ
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
Target flounder, sea bass, triggerfish, and tog around underwater wrecksLearn deepwater fishing tactics and fish behavior near structuresFamilyfriendly adventure suitable for anglers of all skill levels
New Jersey's wreck fishing scene is legendary among anglers who know where to look. When you book with Retriever Fishing Charters, you're not just getting a fishing trip – you're getting access to some of the most productive underwater structures off the Jersey coast. These sunken ships and artificial reefs create perfect habitat for game fish, turning what could be empty ocean into hotspots that hold serious fish year-round. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add new species to your list or someone who wants to experience what real wreck fishing is all about, this charter delivers the goods.
Your day starts with heading out to proven wreck sites where the fish stack up like you wouldn't believe. These aren't your typical nearshore spots – we're talking about deep-water structures that attract everything from chunky black sea bass to aggressive king mackerel. The captain knows these wrecks like the back of his hand, using GPS coordinates and fish finder technology to position the boat perfectly over the structure. You'll learn why fish love these underwater oases and how the current, baitfish, and structure work together to create feeding opportunities. This is hands-on fishing education that makes you a better angler, plus the action keeps everyone engaged. Kids especially love seeing the variety of species that come up from these productive spots.
Wreck fishing requires specific techniques that differ from open-water trolling or shallow-water bottom fishing. You'll be dropping baits and jigs straight down to the structure, often in 60 to 100 feet of water where the big fish live. The captain provides all the tackle you need, including heavy enough gear to pull fish away from the wreck before they cut you off. Expect to use circle hooks with fresh bait like squid, clams, and cut fish, plus vertical jigs that mimic the baitfish these predators feed on. The key is getting your offering right in the strike zone – too far from the wreck and you won't get bit, too close and you'll lose tackle to the structure. It's a balance that takes experience, and having a skilled captain makes all the difference in your success rate.
King mackerel are the speed demons of New Jersey wreck fishing, capable of ripping line off your reel in blistering runs that test both your tackle and your nerves. These silver bullets typically show up from late spring through early fall, with the biggest fish often exceeding 30 pounds. They patrol the edges of wrecks looking for schools of bunker and other baitfish, making them prime targets for both live bait and fast-moving jigs. What makes kings so exciting is their unpredictability – one minute you're fighting what feels like a small fish, then suddenly it goes ballistic and you realize you're connected to something special.
Tiger sharks represent the apex predator experience that serious anglers dream about. These massive sharks cruise New Jersey wrecks during the warmer months, often showing up unexpectedly when you're targeting other species. Tigers can exceed 10 feet and several hundred pounds, turning any fishing trip into an adrenaline-pumping battle that you'll talk about for years. They're not picky eaters, taking everything from cut bait to large live offerings, but when one grabs your line, you'll know immediately that you're dealing with something extraordinary.
Little tunny, also called false albacore, bring non-stop action to wreck fishing trips when they're in the area. These small tuna relatives rarely exceed 15 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in pure speed and stamina. They show up in schools around wrecks from late summer into fall, aggressively feeding on baitfish and hitting both jigs and bait presentations. Little tunny fight like fish twice their size, making multiple runs and testing light tackle to its limits.
Bluefish are the reliable workhorses of New Jersey wreck fishing, present in good numbers from spring through fall and always willing to bite. These aggressive predators range from smaller snappers to hefty choppers that can reach 15 pounds or more. Blues are perfect for kids and beginning anglers because they're not shy about hitting baits, but they'll also challenge experienced fishermen when the big ones are feeding. Their razor-sharp teeth and hard fighting style make every hookup interesting.
Black sea bass are the bread-and-butter species of wreck fishing, with the biggest specimens living right in the structure where they can ambush prey and find shelter. These chunky bottom dwellers are excellent table fare and provide steady action when other species aren't cooperating. Sea bass fishing around wrecks requires precision – you need to get your bait right down to where they live without getting snagged. The best fish often come from the deepest, most challenging spots on the wreck, making each quality sea bass a small victory.
Retriever Fishing Charters offers the real deal when it comes to New Jersey wreck fishing – experienced captains, quality tackle, and access to productive fishing grounds that consistently produce fish. This isn't a crowded party boat situation; with space for just one angler, you get personalized attention and the flexibility to target the species you're most interested in. The combination of proven wreck sites, proper techniques, and a captain who knows how to find fish creates the perfect recipe for a successful day on the water. Don't wait for the perfect conditions – the fish are out there right now, and the next trip could be the one where everything comes together for your personal best catch.
The restored 1995 Maritime bay boat cuts through New Jersey waters with its reliable 90HP Yamaha, taking you straight to productive wreck sites where flounder, sea bass, and tog congregate. This 20-footer handles coastal conditions with ease while the wireless trolling motor lets you position silently over structure without spooking fish below. The GPS keeps you on target while the fish finder reveals what's holding near those underwater wrecks that attract feeding gamefish. Built for serious angling, this classic vessel accommodates up to 4 anglers comfortably with plenty of room to work lures and handle landing nets. Whether you're targeting triggerfish around twisted metal or working jigs for hefty sea bass, the stable platform and fishing-focused layout make every cast count. The 2020 restoration brought modern electronics while keeping that proven hull design that New Jersey charter captains trust for wreck fishing adventures.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass are chunky, hard-fighting bottom dwellers that typically run 1-4 pounds, with bigger males reaching 6+ pounds around deeper wrecks. From late spring through summer, they stack up on rocky bottom, jetties, and shipwrecks in 20-120 feet of water. These guys are aggressive and will hit squid strips, clams, or jigs dropped right to the structure. The fight is strong but short - they'll pull hard trying to get back to their rocky hideouts. They're fantastic table fare with sweet, white meat that's perfect for fish tacos or frying. We use medium tackle with 2-hook bottom rigs and keep baits tight to the wreck. Here's the trick: once you find one, stay put and work the area thoroughly. Sea bass are social fish, so if there's one, there's usually a whole school sitting on that same piece of structure.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are Jersey's classic game fish, running anywhere from 2-15 pounds with occasional giants hitting 20+. They show up in spring and stick around through fall, feeding aggressively in bays, around jetties, and over wrecks. These blue-green predators have razor-sharp teeth and attack baitfish in feeding frenzies that can turn the water white. The fight is strong and steady - they'll bend your rod and test your drag. Fresh blues are excellent eating when iced immediately, with flaky white meat that's perfect for the grill. We catch them on everything from chunks of bunker to metal jigs and poppers. The "bluefish blitz" in late summer is pure chaos when schools of snappers (baby blues) attack baitfish. Pro tip: always use a wire leader and handle them with pliers - those teeth will slice through line and fingers without hesitation.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing Mackerel are fast, aggressive predators that typically run 15-30 pounds, though we've seen them push 50+ pounds off Jersey. They cruise near-shore waters from late spring through early fall, usually in 40-150 feet around wrecks and drop-offs. These silver bullets are built for speed with razor-sharp teeth, so they'll test your drag and wire leader. The fight is pure adrenaline - long runs and powerful dives that'll have your arms burning. They hit trolled spoons, live bunker, and cut bait hard. While the meat has high mercury levels, the chase is what keeps people coming back. Pro tip: use a two-hook rig on live bait - kings love to bite the tail section first, so that trailing treble hook will nail them when they circle back for the head.
Euthynnus AlletteratusLittle Tunny, also called false albacore, are 10-15 pound speedsters that show up in schools from late summer through fall. You'll find them near the surface around inlets, jetties, and sandy points where baitfish gather. These torpedo-shaped fish are built for speed and will give you one heck of a fight on lighter tackle. They're loud feeders - listen for splashing when they're busting bait on top. While the red meat isn't for everyone, it's actually quite good when prepared fresh. We target them by trolling small feathers with ballyhoo or casting live pinfish when we see them working. The key is having multiple lines out since they travel in schools. One local trick: when you hook one, keep other lines in the water nearby - where there's one tunny, there's usually a dozen more ready to bite.
Galeocerdo CuvierTiger sharks are apex predators that can stretch 11-14 feet and weigh 800+ pounds, with females growing even larger. They patrol deeper waters around 1000 feet but move into shallower areas to hunt, especially during warmer months from late spring through fall. These nomadic hunters follow warm currents and use their distinctive stripes for camouflage. What makes them special is their incredible power and endurance - they're capable of massive runs that'll test heavy tackle to its limits. The fight is raw strength, not speed. We use 100+ pound test with circle hooks and fresh mackerel, bluefish, or tuna chunks for bait. Chumming helps draw them in close. One key tip: be patient after the hookup - let them tire themselves out on long runs before trying to work them to the boat.
Atlantic City