Sandy Hook is one of the most popular surf fishing areas in the northern part of the state. It is bordered to the east by the Atlantic Ocean and to the west by Sandy Hook Bay. This sand peninsula is a federal park and usually has daily access fees from Memorial to Labor day. An annual fishing permit can be purchased at the Ranger Station for $25. This permit will allow you access year round and 24hrs a day.
The most popular area to surf cast is called " The Rip". This is where the current of the Ocean and bay meet on the very northern tip of the hook. Many Striped Bass and Bluefish sharpies fish this area exclusively since the rip seems to hold and attract bait and baitfish. Each year several trophy fish are beached in the area. The ocean side of Sandy is also a dotted with many rock jetties and is also a popular place for Blues and Stripers.
The other popular species of fish are Fluke and Blackfish. They are caught on both the bay and ocean sides. Blacks tend to stay around the jetties and rock piles while fluke can be caught along any stretch of the beach.
Bait Stores - While their are no bait stores on Sandy Hook itself their are many store on your way on the east bound side of route 36.
- Tackle Box
- Julians
Fishing Calendar Info Will Appear Here
Party Boats - see Atlantic Highlands
Charter Boats- see Atlantic Highlands
- Night Fishing is great for Stripers but you’ll need a fishing permit. You can purchase one at the
Ranger station but they will not accept cash or credit cards only money orders. If your in the area and
don’t have the money order their are some convenience stores a few miles away in Sea Bright where
you can purchase money orders.
- Depending on the wind ,current and tide the Rip may be located in different places along the most
northern section of the Hook.
- Many good areas for Blackfishing from shore when the water temps are cool.
- Be responsible ! Only keep what you intend to eat and practice catch and release.
- Party Boating.... Make sure to arrive early and get a good spot on the boat. You want to stay near the bow or the stern this way you can fish comfortably regardless of the direction the boat is drifting.
- Charter Boats .... Book trips early and make sure you have a species in mind and have a back up spices in case the fish don't cooperate. Make sure and discuss it with the captain so they are prepared and are in agreement. In the case of fishing for Tuna, make sure you are aware of the captains rules as far as keeping fish. Some boats, especially when giant Tuna fishing, will keep most of what their charters catch.