Fishing Fun: 6 New Jersey State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Sandy Allen

12 Jan 2025 — 4 min read

Photo: Bass River State Forest (Facebook)

New Jersey state parks offer diverse and rewarding fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels. From serene lakes and winding rivers to scenic coastal waters, the state's parks are home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, trout, catfish and pickerel.

Popular destinations like Parvin State Park, Round Valley Recreation Area and Bass River State Forest provide ample shore and boat fishing opportunities. With well-maintained facilities, seasonal fishing events and beautiful natural surroundings, these parks are perfect for a relaxing day of fishing or an adventurous outdoor getaway, whether you’re trailering a boat or leaving from a private boat lift for rent.

Round Valley Recreation Area

Round Valley Recreation Area is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. Famous for its deep, clear waters, Round Valley Reservoir is ideal for trout fishing, particularly lake trout, brown trout, rainbow trout and largemouth and smallmouth bass. The reservoir is one of the few places in New Jersey where anglers can catch lake trout year-round, making it a unique spot for both shore and boat fishing.

Early mornings and cooler seasons are ideal for trout fishing, while warmer months bring active bass and panfish. Ice fishing is also popular in winter when conditions allow. Round Valley’s scenic backdrop and abundant fish population make it a must-visit location for anglers seeking a peaceful yet rewarding fishing experience. The area has boat launches, fishing piers and shoreline access.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Lake, brown and rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass
Fishing Type: Shore, boat, pier

Hopatcong State Park

Hopatcong State Park, in Landing in the northern end of the state, offers anglers a rewarding experience on the state’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Hopatcong. The park provides easy access to the lake's abundant fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, sunfish, catfish, perch and walleye. Shoreline fishing is popular along designated areas, while a boat launch allows visitors to explore deeper waters for larger catches.

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for fishing due to calmer waters and active fish. The park's scenic surroundings create a peaceful setting, enhancing the fishing experience.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Bass, walleye, pickerel, striped bass
Fishing Type: Shore, boat

Allaire State Park

Photo: New Jersey State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites (Facebook)

Located in Monmouth County, Allaire State Park offers more than just scenic hiking trails and historic landmarks. It’s also a haven for fishing enthusiasts to cast a line. Spanning more than 3,000 acres, this park provides a serene setting for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy the sport amidst lush woodlands and the meandering Manasquan River.

The Manasquan River, which flows through the park, is the primary fishing spot renowned for its diverse fish population. Anglers can expect to catch species such as largemouth bass, sunfish, catfish and trout. The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife regularly stocks the river with trout during the spring and fall seasons.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Trout, sunfish, catfish, bass
Fishing Type: Shore, canoe, kayak

Bass River State Forest

Bass River State Forest’s Lake Absegami provides a quiet setting for fishing largemouth bass, pickerel, and sunfish. Located in the Pine Barrens of Burlington County, the park features Lake Absegami, a 67-acre lake that offers excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, sunfish, catfish, pickerel and perch.

Fishing is allowed year-round, and shoreline and small-boat fishing are popular. Non-motorized boats like kayaks, canoes and rowboats are permitted on the lake, which is convenient for easier access to more secluded fishing spots and private boat docks for rent.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Sunfish, pickerel, largemouth bass
Fishing Type: Canoe, kayak, shore

Parvin State Park

Located in Pittsgrove in the southwestern corner of the Garden State, Parvin State Park offers an idyllic setting for anglers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The park spans more than 2,000 acres of forests, wetlands and waterways.

The calm and peaceful Parvin Lake covers approximately 95 acres and is a prime spot for freshwater fishing. Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass, sunfish, catfish and pickerel. Shoreline access and designated fishing areas offer convenient spots for casting lines, while kayaks, canoes and small boats allow for exploration of the lake's quieter coves.

Muddy Run, a stream running through the park, adds to the fishing diversity. This waterway is home to various species, including sunfish and catfish, providing an alternative experience for those who prefer stream fishing. The peaceful ambiance of the streamside setting enhances the overall fishing experience whether you’re trailering from a marina or a private boat slip rental.

Water: Freshwater
Key Species: Catfish, bass, pickerel, sunfish
Fishing Type: Shore, canoe, kayak, small boats

Cheesequake State Park

Are you searching for a New Jersey state park with access to both fresh and saltwater fishing? Located in Matawan in Middlesex County, Cheesequake State Park is the answer. Covering more than 1,600 acres, the park's diverse ecosystems include tidal marshes, saltwater habitats, hardwood forests, open fields and freshwater environments.

Hooks Creek Lake, a popular freshwater fishing spot within the park, is home to species such as largemouth bass, sunfish, catfish and pickerel. The lake is regularly stocked with trout by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife during the spring season. The park's tidal saltwater marshes offer access to species like striped bass and bluefish.