The Top 30 Fishing Lakes in New Jersey Ranked

If you’re an angler in New Jersey, you know there are plenty of great spots to cast a line. From serene ponds to big reservoirs, the state offers a variety of fishing lakes, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, finding the perfect lake can make all the difference in your experience.

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top 30 fishing lakes in New Jersey. This list is a mix of personal experience, local advice, and input from our social media followers, who shared their favorite fishing spots. We wanted to include a variety of lakes that offer different types of fishing, so whether you’re looking for bass, trout, or something else, you’ll find options here.

This guide is all about helping you get the most out of your fishing trips, so you can enjoy a relaxing day by the water or reel in your next big catch. Let’s get started and check out the best places to fish in the Garden State.

30. Nomahegan Lake

Nomahegan Lake in New Jersey offers a peaceful setting for anglers looking to enjoy a quiet day of fishing. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and bluegill, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced fishermen. Surrounded by scenic views, it’s perfect for those wanting a break from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re casting from the shore or enjoying a boat, the calm waters provide an ideal environment for a relaxing fishing experience. It’s a popular choice for families and solo anglers alike.

29. Plainsboro Pond

Plainsboro Pond offers a peaceful spot for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish. It’s a great place for both beginners and seasoned fishermen. With calm waters, the pond is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular choice for locals. There are a few benches along the shore, perfect for relaxing while you wait for a bite. Whether you’re fishing from the bank or just enjoying the view, it’s a laid-back place to spend some time. The surrounding area also provides a quiet atmosphere, ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle.

28. Warinanco Park Lake

Warinanco Park Lake in Roselle offers a peaceful spot for anglers looking to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular choice for local fishermen. Its calm waters and scenic surroundings provide a great backdrop for a day outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this lake offers a quiet space to unwind and reel in your catch. With plenty of space to set up, it’s an ideal location for both solo trips and family outings.

27. Holmdel County Park Pond

Holmdel County Park Pond is a peaceful spot for fishing, nestled in Holmdel, NJ. With its calm waters and natural surroundings, it’s a popular place for anglers to cast their lines. Whether you’re into casual fishing or looking for a more focused experience, the pond offers a chance to catch a variety of fish including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The park itself is well-kept, providing a relaxing atmosphere for visitors. The area also features walking paths, making it a great place to enjoy nature, whether you’re fishing or just taking a stroll. It’s a simple, quiet spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

26. Echo Lake

Echo Lake in New Jersey is a popular spot for anglers looking to spend a peaceful day fishing. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including largemouth bass and rainbow trout, making it a great location for both beginners and experienced fishermen. Surrounded by nature, the area offers a calm atmosphere with plenty of space to cast your line. Whether you’re looking to catch some fish or simply enjoy a quiet afternoon, Echo Lake provides an inviting environment for outdoor enthusiasts. Its easy access and scenic views make it a top choice for a relaxing fishing trip.

25. Duhernal Lake

Duhernal Lake is a peaceful spot for anglers looking to unwind and enjoy a good catch. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, pickerel, and bluegill, making it an excellent choice for fishing year-round. Surrounded by quiet woods, it’s a great place to relax and get away from the noise. The lake’s calm waters are ideal for fishing from shore or a small boat, offering plenty of space to find the perfect spot. Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just looking to spend some time outdoors, Duhernal Lake provides a welcoming environment for everyone.

24. Prospertown Lake

Prospertown Lake in New Jersey is a popular spot for anglers looking to catch largemouth bass, pickerel, and black crappie. The lake offers a peaceful environment, perfect for fishing from the shore or a boat. The surrounding area is wooded, providing a quiet atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or just starting, the lake’s calm waters and variety of fish make it an ideal place to spend time. The park also has picnic areas, adding to the overall enjoyment for those who want to take a break from fishing.

23. Rosedale Lake

Rosedale Lake in New Jersey is a great spot for anglers looking to reel in some fun. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and black crappie. Its calm waters make it an ideal location for both beginners and experienced fishermen. Whether you prefer fishing from a boat or from the shore, you’ll find plenty of space to cast your line. The surrounding park area also offers picnic spots and walking trails, perfect for a relaxing day out. Rosedale Lake provides a peaceful escape and a solid fishing experience for all.

22. New Market Pond

New Market Pond in New Jersey offers a peaceful spot for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish. The pond is stocked regularly, making it an ideal place for a relaxing fishing experience. With its clear waters, it’s easy to see the fish swimming below the surface, which can include largemouth bass, bluegill, and black crappie. The area around the pond is well-kept, and the peaceful environment makes it a great choice for anyone looking to escape the busier spots. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting, New Market Pond offers a nice place to spend a few hours.

21. Kennedy Park Ponds

Kennedy Park Ponds in New Jersey offers a peaceful setting for fishing and outdoor relaxation. The ponds are stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, pickerel, and bluegill, making it a great spot for anglers of all levels. Whether you’re casting from the shore or relaxing by the water, it’s a perfect place to enjoy some quiet time. The area is well-maintained, with plenty of room to fish, walk, or simply enjoy the surroundings. It’s a calm escape from the busy pace of daily life, and the clean, accessible grounds make it easy to spend the day outdoors.

20. Lake Manalapan

Lake Manalapan is a peaceful spot for fishing in New Jersey, offering a calm atmosphere away from the usual hustle. The lake is known for its diverse fish population, making it a popular choice for anglers looking for a quiet day on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, you’ll find the lake’s waters inviting and filled with largemouth bass, bluegill, and more. The surrounding area adds to the appeal with scenic views and a relaxing environment. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and fish, Lake Manalapan is a solid option for a great outdoor experience.

19. Hammonton Lake

Hammonton Lake is a peaceful spot for anglers in New Jersey, offering a relaxing place to cast your line. Known for its clear waters, it’s a great location for fishing bass, panfish, and trout. Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just getting started, Hammonton Lake provides an easy, quiet setting to enjoy the outdoors. Its surroundings are perfect for a calm day on the water, and the fish are plentiful enough to keep things interesting. The park area around the lake also makes it a good place to take a break or have a picnic after a successful catch.

18. Lake Creighton

Lake Creighton in New Jersey offers a great spot for anglers looking for variety. The lake is known for its healthy population of largemouth bass, trout, and bluegill, making it a popular choice for fishing enthusiasts. It’s a peaceful location, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Whether you’re casting from the shore or in a boat, you’ll enjoy the calm setting. The surrounding woods add to the area’s charm, providing a bit of nature alongside the fishing action. If you’re after a quiet place to fish, Lake Creighton is an excellent option for your next outing.

17. Farrington Lake

Farrington Lake offers a peaceful escape for anglers looking to reel in a variety of fish. Known for its clear waters, it’s a popular spot for those targeting largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The lake’s easy access and scenic surroundings make it a great place to relax and enjoy a quiet day of fishing. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or just starting out, Farrington Lake provides a welcoming environment for all skill levels. The calm waters and surrounding nature offer a perfect setting for an afternoon on the lake, making it a favorite among local anglers.

16. Lake Cotoxen

Lake Cotoxen offers a peaceful spot for fishing enthusiasts looking for a relaxing day outdoors. Known for its clear waters and quiet atmosphere, it’s a popular location for anglers hoping to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, and black crappie. The lake is surrounded by nature, making it an ideal escape from the busy world. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to enjoy a day by the water, Cotoxen provides a calm environment to unwind and fish at your own pace. It’s a great place to enjoy both the sport and the beauty of New Jersey’s natural surroundings.

15. Holiday Lake

Holiday Lake is a popular spot for anglers looking to enjoy a day of fishing in a peaceful setting. Known for its clear waters, the lake offers a variety of fish, including bass and catfish, making it a great destination for both beginners and experienced fishermen. The surrounding area is perfect for relaxing, with scenic views and plenty of space to stretch out. Whether you’re casting from the shore or in a kayak, Holiday Lake provides a calm environment that’s ideal for fishing and unwinding. There’s no rush, just a chance to enjoy a quiet day on the water. With well-maintained facilities nearby, it’s easy to access and spend time on the lake. Whether you’re after a big catch or just looking to enjoy some time in nature, Holiday Lake offers a solid option for anyone looking to fish in New Jersey.

14. Mercer County Lake

Mercer County Lake is a popular spot for fishing and outdoor relaxation. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, making it a great choice for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re casting from the shore or using a boat, you can expect to reel in species like largemouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill. The peaceful surroundings offer a perfect escape from the hustle of daily life, with plenty of trees and open space to enjoy. The park also features walking trails, ideal for stretching your legs after a long day of fishing. Mercer County Lake offers a quiet and accessible place to enjoy a day by the water. Whether you’re looking to fish, hike, or just relax, this lake has something for everyone.

13. Shadow Lake

Shadow Lake, located in the heart of New Jersey, offers a peaceful escape for anglers looking to enjoy some quiet time by the water. With its calm, clear surface, the lake is perfect for fishing, with a variety of fish species calling it home. Bass, sunfish, and catfish are common catches here, making it a popular spot for both beginners and seasoned fishermen. The surrounding area is serene, with wooded paths perfect for a casual walk or just relaxing by the shore. Whether you’re casting a line early in the morning or late in the afternoon, Shadow Lake provides a great setting for those who appreciate the simple pleasures of fishing in a natural setting. It’s a spot where time slows down, and the focus is entirely on the rhythm of the water and the thrill of the catch.

12. Lake Lefferts

Lake Lefferts is a peaceful spot for fishing and relaxing. Located in the heart of New Jersey, it’s a great place for those looking to enjoy a quiet day on the water. The lake is well-known for its abundance of fish, including bass and bluegill, making it a popular destination for both beginners and experienced anglers. The calm surroundings offer the perfect environment for an afternoon of fishing without distractions. There are plenty of spots along the shore, providing easy access for those who prefer fishing from land. Whether you’re casting from a boat or standing on the bank, Lake Lefferts is a great place to unwind and reel in your next catch. With scenic views and peaceful waters, it’s an ideal spot for anyone who enjoys fishing in a low-key setting.

11. Milton Lake

Milton Lake, located in Rahway, New Jersey, offers a great spot for anglers looking to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and rainbow trout, making it a popular choice for both beginner and experienced fishermen. It’s a quiet, well-maintained area, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. The surrounding park provides a scenic backdrop, with plenty of green space for picnics and outdoor activities. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore or using a kayak, Milton Lake provides a calm environment to unwind and try your luck at fishing. With its easy access and local charm, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to spend a few hours outdoors.

10. Union Lake

Union Lake in New Jersey offers a peaceful spot for anglers seeking a day on the water. The lake is known for its solid fishing opportunities, especially for species like largemouth bass, pickerel, and crappie. Its calm waters make it a great place for both beginners and experienced fishermen. The shoreline is lined with spots perfect for casting a line or simply relaxing by the water. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or the bank, Union Lake offers an enjoyable experience with a variety of fish to target. If you’re looking for a quiet place to spend a few hours, it’s worth considering. The lake is accessible and popular among locals, making it a nice option if you’re in the area and want to get away for some peaceful fishing time. It’s a reliable location to check out on your next fishing trip in New Jersey.

9. Spring Lake

Spring Lake is a great spot for anglers looking for a peaceful fishing experience in New Jersey. This clear, scenic lake is perfect for those who enjoy fishing from shore or a small boat. The lake is home to various fish species, including bass and bluegill, which makes it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced anglers. The surrounding park area offers a relaxing atmosphere, with walking trails and picnic spots, so you can enjoy nature while you fish. Whether you’re casting from the dock or waiting for a bite along the shoreline, Spring Lake provides a calm setting to unwind and enjoy your time outdoors. It’s a fantastic place to spend an afternoon fishing with friends or family, or even to get in some solo time away from the hustle of everyday life.

8. Assunpink Lake

Assunpink Lake is a great spot for anglers looking to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing. Located in Mercer County, it offers a relaxing environment for both beginners and experienced fishers. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, pickerel, and yellow perch, providing plenty of opportunities for a good catch. The shoreline is easy to access, making it a convenient spot for shore fishing. Whether you’re casting from the bank or using a kayak, the lake’s calm waters are perfect for a laid-back fishing experience. In addition to fishing, the surrounding area has walking trails, so you can take a break and enjoy some fresh air between casts. Whether you’re hoping for a big catch or just looking to spend time outdoors, Assunpink Lake offers a nice balance of nature and sport.

7. Lake Carnegie

Lake Carnegie in Princeton offers a peaceful spot for fishing and relaxation. The lake is a popular destination for anglers looking to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and other freshwater species. With its calm waters, it’s a great place to enjoy a quiet day on the shore or from a small boat. The surrounding area features scenic views, making it a nice place to unwind. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to try your luck. The lake also attracts birdwatchers, who come to see the variety of birds that call the area home. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy spending time outdoors in a serene environment. Whether you’re casting a line or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Lake Carnegie is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a peaceful fishing experience.

6. Cooper River Lake

Cooper River Lake is a popular spot for anglers looking to land some great catches in a peaceful setting. Located in Camden County, it offers a mix of both shallow and deeper areas, perfect for different types of fish. You’ll find a variety of species here, including bass, bluegill, and catfish, which makes it a great spot for both beginners and seasoned fishermen. The lake is surrounded by a park, giving visitors plenty of room to relax or take a break between casts. It’s also well-maintained, making it an easy place to visit year-round. Whether you’re casting from the shore or out in a small boat, there’s always something to catch at Cooper River Lake. The nearby trails and picnic spots make it a solid option for a full day of fishing and outdoor fun.

5. Round Valley Reservoir

Round Valley Reservoir is a popular spot for anglers in New Jersey, offering a variety of fish species like rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. The calm, clear waters make it a perfect location for fishing, whether you’re casting from a boat or the shore. The reservoir is surrounded by a mix of wooded areas and open spaces, making it a peaceful place to spend the day. It’s especially known for its excellent trout fishing, with the waters being stocked regularly throughout the year. There’s also plenty of room for fishing from the shoreline if you prefer to stay on land. The surrounding park is great for hiking and picnicking, so it’s a great spot to combine outdoor activities. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to enjoy a day by the water, Round Valley offers a relaxing and rewarding experience.

4. Lake Topanemus

Lake Topanemus is a peaceful spot for fishing in New Jersey, offering a quiet environment for anglers. Located in the heart of Monmouth County, this lake is known for its variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just starting out, the lake’s calm waters make it a great place to cast your line. It’s also a popular spot for those looking to relax and enjoy the surrounding nature. The shoreline has plenty of room for bank fishing, and the overall atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind while trying to land a big catch. Nearby parks and trails provide extra opportunities for outdoor activities if you want to take a break from fishing. If you’re in the area, Lake Topanemus is definitely worth a visit for a relaxing day on the water.

3. Manasquan Reservoir

Manasquan Reservoir is a peaceful spot for fishing in New Jersey, offering a great mix of relaxation and sport. The reservoir is known for its calm waters, making it a perfect place for anglers looking to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, and other popular fish. Whether you prefer fishing from the shore or a boat, this location gives you plenty of space to cast your line. The surrounding park also offers hiking trails, so you can enjoy a walk or take in the natural beauty when you’re not fishing. For anyone seeking a quiet retreat with easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, Manasquan Reservoir is an ideal choice. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, it’s a top spot in the area.

2. Lake Riviera

Lake Riviera is a peaceful spot for anglers looking to enjoy a quiet day out. This fishing lake in New Jersey offers a relaxing environment where you can catch bass, bluegill, and pickerel. With its calm waters and accessible shoreline, it’s a great place for both beginners and seasoned fishermen. The surrounding area is well-maintained, and the lake provides plenty of space to set up for a day of fishing. Whether you’re out with a family member or going solo, the peaceful setting makes it easy to focus on your catch. Just bring your gear, and you’ll find everything you need for a solid fishing experience. Whether you’re casting from the shore or enjoying some time by the water, Lake Riviera offers an enjoyable, no-frills spot for fishing in New Jersey.

1. Lake Hopatcong

Lake Hopatcong, located in northern New Jersey, offers a great spot for fishing enthusiasts. Its clear waters are home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, walleye, and perch. Whether you prefer casting from the shore or using a boat, the lake provides plenty of space for different fishing styles. With its natural beauty, the lake also attracts those looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the water. The surrounding area features parks and spots to relax, making it a popular destination for both fishing and outdoor activities. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, Lake Hopatcong is an excellent place to reel in your catch and spend time enjoying the outdoors.

More about Fishing Lakes in New Jersey

New Jersey is home to a variety of fishing lakes, offering something for anglers of all levels. Spring and fall are ideal for bass and trout, while summer is perfect for catfish and panfish. Whether you’re fishing from shore or boat, these lakes offer plenty of options. Be sure to check local regulations and obtain a fishing license before heading out. With the right gear and techniques, you’re in for an enjoyable fishing experience.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license in New Jersey?

Yes, anglers aged 16 and older require a fishing license for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Licenses can be obtained through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Are there accessible fishing spots for individuals with disabilities?

Yes, New Jersey offers over 50 fishing sites that are accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.

Where can I find fishing maps and regulations?

The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife provides detailed maps, regulations, and access points on their official website.

Whether you’re casting from a boat or the shore, New Jersey’s lakes offer diverse fishing experiences. Remember to check local regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before heading out. Happy fishing.