The Best Fishing Lakes In New Jersey

Guide to top places to fish for bass, catfish, crappie and more in NJ.

Lake Hopatcong, Manasquan Reservoir, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Monksville Reservoir and Round Valley Reservoir are the most popular places for fishing in New Jersey, offering anglers the chance to pursue a variety of fish species, year round including ice fishing at some of these waters.

New Jersey is home to a variety of fishing lakes, offering anglers the opportunity to target different species in both warm water and cold water environments.

When it comes to warm water lakes, Lake Hopatcong stands out as one of New Jersey's premier fishing destinations. Known as the largest lake in the state, it provides excellent habitat for species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, pickerel, and hybrid striped bass. Anglers can also target panfish such as crappie, sunfish, and yellow perch in the warmer months. Lake Assunpink and Union Lake are also popular warm water lakes that offer similar fishing opportunities.

In terms of cold water lakes, Round Valley Reservoir is a notable destination. As one of the deepest lakes in the state, it provides ideal conditions for trout, including rainbow trout and brown trout. Anglers can also target smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and landlocked salmon in this picturesque reservoir. Spruce Run Reservoir is another popular cold water lake that offers excellent trout fishing along with opportunities for bass and hybrid striped bass.

Other notable fishing lakes in New Jersey include Lake Mercer, Merrill Creek Reservoir, and Manasquan Reservoir. These lakes offer a mix of warm water and cold water species, providing anglers with a diverse range of fishing opportunities. From bass and panfish to trout and hybrid striped bass, these lakes cater to different fishing preferences and techniques.

It's important to note that each lake may have its own set of fishing regulations and size limits, so anglers should consult the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife for specific guidelines.

Whether you prefer the excitement of warm water species or the challenge of targeting trout in cold water, New Jersey's fishing lakes offer something for every angler. With its diverse range of species and fishing environments, the state provides ample opportunities to enjoy a rewarding fishing experience surrounded by beautiful natural settings.

Bass Lakes

Clinton Reservoir, Farrington Lake, Greenwood Lake, Lake Musconetcong, Manasquan Reservoir, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Monksville Reservoir and Union Lake are considered the best options for largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass. More...

Catfish Lakes

Assunpink Lake, Clinton Reservoir, Lake Hopatcong, Lake Musconetcong, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Monksville Reservoir and Round Valley Reservoir are favorite options for channel, blue, white and flathead catfish. More...

Crappie Lakes

Assunpink Lake, Farrington Lake, Lake Carnegie, Mercer Lake, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Monksville Reservoir and Union Lake are some of the most popular for black and white crappie. More...

Sunfish, Perch & Panfish Lakes

Greenwood Lake, Lake Hopatcong, Manasquan Reservoir, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Monksville Reservoir and Round Valley Reservoir are popular spots to fish for bluegill, bream, perch and other sunfish. More...

Walleye Lakes

The Delaware River, Greenwood Lake, Lake Hopatcong, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Monksville Reservoir are considered the top locations for walleye fishing. More...

Trout Lakes

Farrington Lake, Lake Hopatcong, Lake Musconetcong, Merrill Creek Reservoir, Rockaway River and Round Valley Reservoir are the favorite options for rainbow, brook, brown and lake trout. More...

Striped Bass Lakes

The Delaware River, Lake Hopatcong, Manasquan Reservoir and Spruce Run Reservoir are the best options for striped bass and/or hybrid striped bass. More...

Salmon Lakes

Lake Aeroflex, Tilcon Lake and Wawayanda Lake are the primary lakes for landlocked sockeye salmon fishing. More...

Visit the New Jersey fishing page for links to information covering a wide variety of fish species and destinations in the state. Visit the New Jersey map to identify your best route to these top fishing locations. Look to our sister site for additional information about boating in NJ at many of the most popular destinations in the state.

Best Destinations By State.