By Sharon Merkel Prudhomme ~
Mac’s Shark River Tackle 1301 NJ-35, Neptune City, NJ 07753 (732)774-4360
Mac’s Bait & Tackle has been in operation since 1970, providing bait, tackle and supplies for more than 30 years. Whether you’re doing salt or fresh water, you’ll find your needs are covered at Mac’s. In addition to the inventory which is said to be extensive, there is a great easy access launch ramp said to be the best on the Shark River. From the ramp to the ocean in 15 minutes. This rather small shop boasts a large inventory with some nice year round discounts. Stop in to check it out. Take home a FREE Tide Chart, FREE Boating & Fishing Magazine or a FREE NJ Rules & Regulations magazine while visiting!
Fisherman’s Den 905 NJ-35, Belmar, NJ 07719 (732)681-5005
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting into the sport of fishing, Fisherman’s Den has you covered. They offer a complete extensive selection and variety of bait and tackle. An expert staff member is on hand to offer suggestions to beginners guiding you along with choices to assure you’re fishing experience is a positive one. The Den is located right at the Belmar Marina and sport a new, huge motor boat rental fleet said to be the biggest on the Shark River! For those planning a party boat trip out of the Belmar Marina, Fisherman’s Den is conveniently right next door to the docks. If staying land side, your surf fishing needs are just a few minutes from the sand. Ocean breezes getting tough? Don’t forget the variety of clothing available here at the shop.
Seaport Inlet Marina 610 5th Ave, Belmar, NJ 07719 (732)681-3303
Bait, tackle, ice…all your needs met for a good day out fishing. Super stocked shop which claims to be a discount store majorly stocked with not only fishing supplies but boating supplies as well. If they don’t have what you need they’ll order in for you within 48 hrs or less! This shop is part of a marina which repairs, buys, sells and trades boats. Winter storage is ample with room for over 100 boats. Their tech guys are ready to repair engines, maintain and service your boat. This marina is also on the East side of the Rt. 71 bridge, which makes for quick easy access to the ocean without a bridge wait time.
Reel Seat 707 Union Ave., Brielle, NJ 08730 (732)223-5353
This is the “reel” deal specializing in Custom Fishing Tackle & Rigging. Have a problem with a rod or reel? Check out Reel Seat’s service and repair as well as line spooling for both inshore and big game reels. From soup to nuts, Reel Seat has something for everyone as well as hoodies and T-Shirts. Gals, if you aren’t into fishing, this is an excellent spot for gift shopping for the significant other in your life! Not sure just what he may like or need, go for the Gift Certificates, never the wrong size or item-always the perfect fit.
Brielle Bait & Tackle 800 Ashley Ave., Brielle, NJ 08730 (732)528-5720
Brielle Bait & Tackle is known for their friendly helpful attitude. Locally owned and family operated – as one review states, “ A true old school tackle and rod building shop on the Jersey shore, providing outstanding & knowledgeable service for every level of fishing….a must visit on the Jersey shore…for sure”
Fisherman’s Supply 69 Channel Dr., Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
Rods & reels, tackle, clothing, bait, rigging, fuel….this shop has ya’ covered too! Here’s a shop with dedicated long time customers who enjoy the new products always being brought in. It is said they’ve got jigs and rigging, etc. that “nobody else has”. Apparently their “soft plastics” are doing fantastic. Mention of a 6.5” Gambler (paddletails) doing great in waist deep water & catching fish just 8 feet off the rods’ tip. Check out Fisherman’s Supply on Facebook as they are very active and post new products as well as offering a few cool seminars.
Although it is still not necessary to obtain a Salt Water fishing license, there is a NJ Salt Water Registry. All anglers are encouraged to register. This becomes part of network of fisherman/women helping in overseeing the number of people fishing as well as their catch. Working to conserve our oceans while preserving future catches is number one. So go ahead, register for FREE on line.