What You'll Find at Atlantic Highlands Municipal Harbor

Atlantic Highlands Municipal Harbor is a working waterfront in the northern tip of the Raritan Bay, where the Shrewsbury River meets deeper water. The harbor sits in the shadow of the Highlands, a ridge that rises sharply from the water and gives the town its name. It's a small, practical harbor—not a sprawling bay—which means you're fishing in relatively confined space with other boats, but also with predictable structure and consistent fish movement.

The harbor itself holds striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish in season. The Shrewsbury River arm, which feeds into the harbor, produces smaller stripers and fluke in summer. The deeper water just outside the harbor mouth—toward the Raritan Bay proper—holds larger stripers and occasional sea bass. Most fishing here is done from boats, though there is limited shore access at the municipal dock area.

What makes Atlantic Highlands distinct is its position as a gateway to both the Raritan Bay and the Hudson River estuary. Fish moving between these systems pass through this harbor, especially during spring and fall migrations. The harbor is also shallow enough in places to wade, though most productive fishing requires a boat or access to a charter.

Key Takeaways

  • Atlantic Highlands Municipal Harbor holds striped bass year-round, with peak fishing in spring and fall when fish migrate through the Raritan Bay.
  • You can fish from the municipal dock on foot, but boat access opens up deeper water and more consistent catches, especially for larger stripers and bluefish.
  • The Shrewsbury River arm is shallower and warmer, making it better for summer fluke and smaller stripers; the harbor mouth and bay side hold larger fish.
  • New Jersey saltwater fishing requires a Saltwater Fishing License, which you can purchase online through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.
  • The harbor is a working port with commercial and recreational traffic, so plan your visit around tide and weather, and respect posted regulations for the municipal dock.

Seasons and What Fish Are Active

Spring (April through May) brings the first major run of striped bass moving north through the Raritan Bay and into the harbor. Water temperatures climb from the 50s to the 60s, and stripers follow baitfish—primarily bunker and herring—into the shallower harbor water. This is peak season for stripers in the 18- to 30-inch range, though larger fish are possible. Fishing is best around the harbor mouth and the deeper channels where baitfish concentrate.

Summer (June through August) shifts the focus to fluke in the Shrewsbury River arm and weakfish in the harbor proper. Water temperatures reach the low 70s, and fluke move into the shallower, warmer water. Stripers are still present but less aggressive in the heat. Bluefish appear sporadically, usually in early summer. This is the season when shore fishing from the municipal dock becomes more productive, as fish move into shallower water.

Fall (September through November) brings the second major striper migration, often more intense than spring. Water temperatures drop from the 70s to the 50s, and stripers feed heavily before moving south. This is the most reliable season for larger fish, including stripers in the 30- to 40-inch range. Bluefish are active and aggressive. The harbor can be crowded with recreational boats during October and early November.

Winter (December through March) slows fishing considerably. Stripers remain in the harbor but are less active and more scattered. Water temperatures drop into the 40s. Shore fishing is possible but requires patience. Some anglers target stripers in the deeper channels during mild spells, but this is not peak season for most species.

Access and Where to Fish

The Atlantic Highlands Municipal Dock provides the primary public access point. It's located on the harbor's west side, near the town center. The dock allows foot traffic and has limited parking nearby—spaces fill quickly on weekends and during peak season. You can fish from the dock itself, though it's a working dock with commercial and recreational boat traffic, so stay clear of mooring lines and active loading areas. The dock is best for smaller fish and for learning the harbor's layout before investing in a boat.

Boat ramps are available at nearby marinas, including Bahrs Landing (just south in Highlands) and various private facilities. If you own or rent a boat, you can launch and fish the deeper channels, the harbor mouth, and the Raritan Bay proper. The harbor mouth—where the Shrewsbury River meets the bay—is the most productive spot for larger stripers and bluefish, especially during migration seasons. The Shrewsbury River arm itself is shallower and better for fluke and smaller stripers in summer.

Shore fishing is limited. The municipal dock is your best option for foot access. Some anglers fish from the bulkheads along the harbor's edge, but much of the waterfront is private property or working commercial space. Respect posted signs and do not trespass on private docks or residential areas.

Regulations and Licensing

New Jersey requires a Saltwater Fishing License for anyone 16 and older who fishes in state saltwater. You can purchase a license online through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website, or at tackle shops and sporting goods stores. Licenses are available as one-day, seven-day, or annual options. Prices vary, but an annual license costs less than three one-day licenses. You must carry your license with you while fishing.

Size and catch limits vary by species and change annually. Striped bass have a minimum size (currently 18 inches) and a daily catch limit (currently one fish per person per day, though this varies by season and region—check the current regulations before you fish). Bluefish have a minimum size of 8 inches and a daily limit of 10 fish. Fluke have a minimum size of 17.5 inches and a daily limit of 5 fish. Weakfish have a minimum size of 12 inches and a daily limit of 2 fish. These limits are subject to change, so verify them with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife before your trip.

The municipal dock has its own rules: no overnight mooring without permission, no commercial fishing, and respect for posted hours. Parking is limited and enforced. Arrive early during peak season or fish during off-peak times (weekdays, winter) to avoid congestion.

What Gear and Tackle to Bring

For striped bass, bring a medium to medium-heavy spinning rod (6 to 7 feet) with 15- to 20-pound braided line. Stripers respond well to live bunker, live eels, and soft plastics in the 4- to 6-inch range. Topwater plugs work during low light and at dawn. If you're fishing from the dock, lighter gear (medium spinning rod, 12-pound line) works for smaller stripers and weakfish.

For fluke, use a light to medium spinning rod with 10- to 12-pound line and a fluke rig—a two-hook setup with squid and small baitfish. Fluke are bottom feeders, so you'll need a sinker to keep the rig on the bottom. Jigging with small bucktail jigs also works well.

For bluefish, bring heavier tackle (medium-heavy rod, 20-pound line) because they're aggressive and have sharp teeth. Wire or heavy fluorocarbon leaders are essential. Bluefish hit plugs, spoons, and live baitfish.

Bring a landing net if you're fishing from the dock—the water is deep enough that netting a fish is easier than trying to hand-line it up. A tackle box with extra hooks, sinkers, leaders, and pliers is standard. Sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses help you spot fish and protect yourself from the sun.

Getting There and When to Fish

Atlantic Highlands is located on Route 36, about 45 minutes south of New York City and 30 minutes north of Long Branch. If you're coming from inland New Jersey, take Route 35 north to Route 36 east. Parking at the municipal dock is limited—arrive by 7 a.m. on weekends during peak season, or fish on weekdays when the dock is less crowded.

Tide is critical. Stripers and bluefish feed most actively during the first two hours of an incoming tide and the first two hours of an outgoing tide. Slack tide (the period between tides) is usually slower. Check tide tables for Atlantic Highlands before you go—tide times shift daily. Fluke fishing is less tide-dependent but still better during moving water.

Fish early morning (dawn to mid-morning) and late afternoon (two hours before sunset onward). Midday fishing is usually slow, especially in summer. Overcast days are often better than bright, sunny days because fish are more active when light levels are lower.

Nearby Alternatives and Extensions

If Atlantic Highlands is crowded or the fishing is slow, the Raritan Bay proper (just outside the harbor mouth) holds larger stripers and bluefish, especially during migration seasons. You'll need a boat to fish it effectively. Bahrs Landing, just south in Highlands, offers boat ramps and direct access to the bay.

The Shrewsbury River, which feeds into the harbor, extends north and offers fluke and smaller stripers in summer. It's shallower and warmer than the harbor, making it good for beginners or for targeting summer species. You can launch a small boat or kayak at several points along the river.

If you want to fish without a boat, the Shark River Inlet (about 20 minutes south) offers better shore access and is a known striper and bluefish spot. The inlet has a public park with parking and direct access to the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish from the municipal dock without a boat?

Yes. The dock is open to foot traffic and allows fishing. You'll catch smaller stripers, weakfish, and occasional bluefish. The dock is best during summer and fall when fish move into shallower water. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

What's the best time of year to fish Atlantic Highlands?

Fall (September through November) is peak season for stripers and bluefish. Spring (April through May) is also excellent. Summer is better for fluke and weakfish. Winter is slow and requires patience. If you're new to the harbor, visit in fall or spring when fish are most active.

Do I need a boat to fish here?

No, but a boat opens up more productive water. The dock and shore access work for smaller fish and learning the harbor. A boat lets you reach the harbor mouth and deeper channels where larger stripers and bluefish concentrate, especially during migration seasons.

What's the parking situation at the municipal dock?

Parking is limited and fills quickly on weekends and during peak season. Arrive early (before 7 a.m.) or fish on weekdays. Parking is enforced, so read posted signs. If the lot is full, nearby streets may have additional parking, but check for residential restrictions.

Are there charter boats available at Atlantic Highlands?

Yes. Several charter operations run out of nearby marinas, including Bahrs Landing. Charters handle licensing, tackle, and navigation, making them a good option if you don't own a boat or want to learn the harbor from an experienced captain. Book in advance, especially during peak season.