Historical Context

Keansburg Fishing Pier, located in Keansburg, New Jersey, has been a cherished landmark for locals and visitors alike since its initial construction in the early 20th century. The pier was built to enhance the recreational offerings of the Keansburg Amusement Park, which was established in 1904. It quickly became a popular spot for fishing and leisure, attracting anglers from all over the region.

The original pier has undergone several reconstructions due to damage from hurricanes and nor’easters. Notably, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused significant damage to the structure, necessitating extensive repairs and improvements. The rebuilt pier features modern amenities designed to withstand severe weather conditions, including reinforced pilings, improved decking, and better lighting for night fishing.

Keansburg Fishing Pier has faced numerous environmental challenges over the years. Hurricanes and coastal storms have repeatedly damaged the pier, requiring continuous maintenance and reconstruction efforts. Despite these challenges, the pier remains a beloved fishing spot thanks to the dedication of the local community and support from municipal authorities.

Recent enhancements to Keansburg Fishing Pier include upgraded fish cleaning stations, more benches, and improved accessibility features. The surrounding area has also been developed to provide ample parking, picnic areas, and shaded spots, making it a more attractive destination for families and anglers. Additionally, a new bait and tackle shop has been added to serve the needs of fishermen.

Pier Specifics and Amenities

• Length: Approximately 1,000 feet into Raritan Bay.
• Lighting: Enhanced lighting for night fishing.
• Fish Cleaning Stations: Equipped with running water.
• Benches: Numerous benches for relaxation.
• Parking: Ample parking space available near the pier.
• Restrooms: Upgraded facilities available for visitors.
• Accessibility: Improved features for better accessibility.
• Additional Amenities: Bait and tackle shop, picnic areas, and shaded spots.

Fish Species and Fishing Techniques

The waters around Keansburg Fishing Pier are rich with a variety of fish species. Here are some of the most common species and effective techniques for catching them from the pier:

1. Striped Bass

Techniques: Use live bait such as bunker or eels, or artificial lures like swimbaits and jigs. Fish during tidal changes near the pier pilings and structures.

Best Months: April to November.

2. Bluefish

Techniques: Use cut bait like mackerel or bunker, or artificial lures like metal jigs and poppers. Fish near schools of baitfish and during moving tides off the pier.

Best Months: May to October.

3. Fluke (Summer Flounder)

Techniques: Use live bait such as minnows or squid strips, or artificial lures like bucktail jigs. Fish near sandy bottoms and around the pier pilings during tidal changes.

Best Months: May to September.

4. Weakfish

Techniques: Use live shrimp or baitfish, or artificial lures like soft plastics. Fish during early morning or late evening near pier lights and shadow lines.

Best Months: April to October.

5. Porgy (Scup)

Techniques: Use small pieces of clam or squid on small hooks. Fish near structures and rocky bottoms.

Best Months: May to October.

6. Kingfish

Techniques: Use small pieces of shrimp or bloodworms on small hooks. Fish near sandy bottoms and during rising tides off the pier.

Best Months: Year-round.

7. Blackfish (Tautog)

Techniques: Use green crabs or fiddler crabs. Fish near rocky areas and structures during tidal changes.

Best Months: October to April.

8. Hickory Shad

Techniques: Use small spoons or shad darts. Fish near the surface during moving tides off the pier.

Best Months: May to September.

9. Black Sea Bass

Techniques: Use squid or clam strips on high-low rigs. Fish near structures and rocky bottoms.

Best Months: May to October.

10. Spotted Hake

Techniques: Use small pieces of clam or squid on small hooks. Fish near the bottom during tidal changes.

Best Months: Year-round.

Fishing Calendar