Atlantic Menhaden Fishing in New Jersey
When atlantic menhaden are caught across New Jersey, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Atlantic Menhaden catch through the year
Recreational catch in New Jersey by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
Seasonal catch and conditions for New Jersey
Seasonal catch, tides, and the day's conditions worth knowing for your spots, plus the occasional Pathr update. No spam.
Catching atlantic menhaden in New Jersey
Atlantic Menhaden catches in New Jersey run hardest around May-Jun, with the strongest two-month windows in May-Jun and Jul-Aug. Anglers keep about 66% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the New Jersey fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch atlantic menhaden in New Jersey?+
Catches peak around May-Jun (May and June). The strongest two-month windows are May-Jun and Jul-Aug. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release atlantic menhaden in New Jersey?+
Across New Jersey, about 66% of the atlantic menhaden caught are kept and 34% are released. That works out to roughly 208K kept and 106K released in 2024.
How many atlantic menhaden are caught in New Jersey?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 315K atlantic menhaden caught by recreational anglers in New Jersey in 2024, making it the #17 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this atlantic menhaden data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
