Embark on an extraordinary fishing adventure with Nightwatch Sport Fishing and Captain Alan Thomas in the scenic waters of Barnegat Light, New Jersey. Captain Alan, a seasoned local angler, brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for ecology and responsible fishing to ensure an unforgettable experience. Barnegat Light is renowned among anglers for its prime location along the New Jersey coast, offering rich and diverse fishing grounds. Your day will unfold aboard a 22' Kencraft boat, meticulously equipped for safety and navigation. The vessel accommodates up to four anglers comfortably, providing ample space for an intimate and enjoyable fishing expedition. Fitted with a fishfinder, GPS, and a T-top for sun protection, the boat ensures both safety and comfort. Captain Alan's five decades of fishing expertise guarantee that you'll swiftly locate the best fishing spots. The fishing experience with Nightwatch Sport Fishing is diverse, targeting species such as Striped Bass, Bluefish, Fluke, Seabass, Weakfish, and more. Whether trolling, spinning, jigging, or popping, Captain Alan adapts the approach to optimize your chances of landing a remarkable catch. Feel free to bring your own fly fishing gear for a personalized touch to your adventure. Children over 10 are welcomed on board, provided with life vests, and can partake in an educational and thrilling fishing experience. Nightwatch Sport Fishing maintains a non-smoking policy, ensuring a clean and comfortable environment for everyone. The trip cost includes all the necessary conventional, spinning, trolling, and baitcasting rods and reels. Captain Alan provides both live and artificial bait, meticulously prepared before the journey based on the targeted species. Legal catches will be cleaned at the end of the trip, allowing you to savor the fruits of your adventure. As you plan your day on the water, pack a small cooler with food and drinks, ensuring you're well-prepared for the journey. Don't forget essentials like sun protection and polarized sunglasses, and you'll be all set for an unparalleled day of fishing. Book a fishing excursion with Nightwatch Sport Fishing for an unbeatable adventure led by Captain Alan. With his expertise, dedication to ecology, and commitment to responsible fishing, you're guaranteed a memorable and enjoyable trip on the waters of Barnegat Light. Note: Trip starting times are flexible.

Southern Flounder

Blues, Sea Bass, and Fluke Keeping Rods Bent All Morning

Sea Bass

This morning’s trip with John R. delivered solid action out of Barnegat Light. The bite started early with a steady run of bluefish, giving us some great fights and quick runs. These mid-sized blues were aggressive and hit a mix of jigs and bait just outside the inlet.

As the tide shifted, we moved to deeper structure where sea bass were stacked up. John put several quality keepers in the cooler, along with plenty of action from shorts to keep things lively. The sea bass were hitting both clams and Gulp presentations.

To round out the morning, we drifted the nearby fluke grounds and connected with a few nice flatfish. Though we had to weed through some throwbacks, John managed a couple solid keepers to wrap up a productive outing. With mixed species and plenty of bites, Barnegat Light continues to offer strong summer fishing for anglers looking for variety and action.

Two summer flounder fish caught in New Jersey

Two summer flounder, 17 inches long, caught while fishing at Barnegat Light

EPSG:4269

One fisherman with a 12-inch catch at Barnegat Light

A bluefish measuring 17 inches, caught while fishing in NJ

Summer Flounder caught in Barnegat Light by fisherman

A picturesque view of Barnegat Light on the coast

Two summer flounder and sea bass caught fishing in New Jersey

A photo of a summer flounder fish caught in NJ

Fisherman with a single catch at Barnegat Light

A great fishing trip at Barnegat Light with a 19-inch catch

Ready to reel in unforgettable memories on the water? Book your next fishing adventure with Nightwatch Sport Fishing in Barnegat Light, NJ—where every cast brings excitement, and every trip is a story worth telling!

Nightwatch Sport Fishing is your go-to charter service for exciting inshore fishing trips out of Barnegat Light, New Jersey. Led by experienced local guide Captain Alan Thomas, the company specializes in striped bass and light tackle fishing throughout Barnegat Bay and the surrounding coastal waters. Captain Alan’s deep knowledge of the area and hands-on approach ensures every trip is productive, educational, and enjoyable for anglers of all experience levels. Whether you're targeting hard-fighting striped bass or simply enjoying a day on the water, Nightwatch Sport Fishing offers some of the best fishing charters in Barnegat Light. From families and beginners to seasoned anglers, every guest is welcome aboard for a personalized, top-tier New Jersey fishing experience.

Captain Alan Thomas, the seasoned mariner behind Nightwatch Sport Fishing, brings over five decades of experience in running boats and fishing the vibrant waters of Barnegat Light, New Jersey. With a lifetime of fishing under his belt, Captain Alan decided to start running charters to share his extensive knowledge and passion for the sport. His primary mission is to teach the public the right and moral way to fish, emphasizing sustainable practices and respect for marine life. Captain Alan's charters are not just about catching fish; they are educational adventures where guests learn about the sea, the species they target, and the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem. Ecology holds a special place in Captain Alan's heart, and he takes every opportunity to educate his guests about the wildlife they encounter. Whether it's a majestic sea turtle or a playful pod of dolphins, Captain Alan ensures that each sighting is a moment of learning and appreciation. His dedication to teaching about the sea and its inhabitants goes beyond the basics of fishing; he aims to instill a deeper understanding and respect for the ocean and its ecosystems. With Captain Alan at the helm, every trip with Nightwatch Sport Fishing promises not only thrilling catches but also a profound connection with nature. Captain Alan Thomas employs a diverse range of fishing techniques to provide an exciting and educational experience for anglers of all skill levels. His expertise includes light tackle fishing, which offers a thrilling challenge when targeting species like striped bass and bluefish. Bottom fishing is another favorite, perfect for reeling in fluke and seabass from the depths. Trolling is utilized to cover larger areas and attract predatory fish, while spinning and jigging add dynamic action to the lure, enticing various species. Popping creates surface disturbances to lure fish like bluefish, and fly fishing provides a unique, skill-intensive approach for those seeking a more personalized experience. Drift fishing allows for a relaxed yet effective method to target multiple species as the boat moves with the current. Each technique is tailored to the day's conditions and the target species, ensuring a versatile and productive outing on the waters of Barnegat Light with Nightwatch Sport Fishing. Boat Details:﻿Captain Alan Thomas operates a meticulously maintained 22-foot center console boat under Nightwatch Sport Fishing, ideal for navigating the waters of Barnegat Light, New Jersey. Built by Kencraft and restored in 2016, this versatile vessel comfortably accommodates up to 4 persons. Powered by a reliable Mercury Verado 175HP engine, the boat boasts a maximum cruising speed of 40 knots, ensuring swift and efficient travel to prime fishing spots. Its center console design provides ample deck space for anglers to maneuver during fishing excursions, equipped with modern navigational tools and safety equipment for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Whether targeting striped bass close to shore or exploring deeper waters for seabass, Captain Alan's Kencraft boat is equipped to deliver a memorable and productive fishing adventure.

Meet Captain Alan of Nightwatch Sport Fishing

Common Questions: What is the cost of Barnegat Light fishing charters with Nightwatch Sport Fishing?Nightwatch Sport Fishing offers competitive rates for Barnegat Light fishing charters. Our charter trip cost $500 What types of fishing trips are available with Nightwatch Sport Fishing?We offer a variety of New Jersey fishing charters, including inshore fishing, striped bass fishing, bass fishing, and more. Our trips cater to both novice and experienced anglers. How long are the fishing trips with Nightwatch Sport Fishing?We offer half-day 5 hour fishing charters to suit your preferences and schedule. What species can we target on a Nightwatch Sport Fishing charter?With our Barnegat Light fishing charters, you can target a variety of species including striped bass, bluefish, fluke, seabass, and weakfish, among others. Striped bass fishing is one of our specialties. What equipment is provided on Nightwatch Sport Fishing charters?We provide all necessary fishing equipment for your trip, including rods, reels, and bait. Our focus on light tackle fishing ensures an exciting and engaging experience. Are Nightwatch Sport Fishing charters suitable for beginners?Absolutely! Our New Jersey fishing charters are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Captain Alan provides guidance and support to ensure a memorable fishing adventure for everyone. Can children join Nightwatch Sport Fishing trips?Yes, children over the age of 10 are welcome on our Barnegat Bay fishing charters. We provide life vests and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for young anglers. What should I bring on a Nightwatch Sport Fishing charter?We recommend bringing sun protection, polarized sunglasses, snacks, and drinks. A small cooler is also advisable for storing your catch. All fishing gear and bait are provided. How do I book a fishing trip with Nightwatch Sport Fishing?Booking a trip is easy! You can contact us directly via phone or visit our website to schedule your fishing trip in New Jersey. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred date and time. What makes Nightwatch Sport Fishing unique?Nightwatch Sport Fishing stands out for its dedication to light tackle fishing and the expertise of Captain Alan, who brings over five decades of fishing experience. Our Barnegat Light fishing charters offer a blend of scenic beauty and thrilling catches, ensuring an unforgettable adventure on the water.

Barnegat Bay - Ocean, NJ Fishing Report on 17th Jul, 2025 - 2

AUTHOR

Alan Thomas

NOTES

Blues, Sea Bass, and Fluke Keeping Rods Bent All Morning

Barnegat Bay - Ocean, NJ

CATCHES

2 Total Catches

Total catches2

Southern Flounder

Catches - 1

Sea Bass

Catches - 1

Nightwatch Sport Fishing Available Trips

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