Your New Favorite Fishing Spot is in Hunterdon County, NJ

Whether you’re new to the art of sport fishing, or you’re a seasoned pro, Hunterdon County has an abundance of fishing opportunities to get you in the game! With a plethora of spots to fish and fishing shops that have years of experience in the sport, you’re in good hands! Let’s dive in and learn more about the different types of fishing and where you can do them in Hunterdon.

South Branch Outfitters (Califon)

To give you an idea of how experienced Hunterdon is in fishing, check out South Branch Outfitters in Califon, NJ. Previously known as Shannon’s Fly & Tackle, SBO is a family run business that has been open since 1973! The new branding pays homage to the South Branch of the Raritan River, which is just steps from the shop. Stop in the shop to purchase everything you need to fish, or join them for a public or private water guided fishing session. South Branch Outfitters is so passionate about the sport, they produce a lot of education opportunities for novice or experienced fishers. Join them for a dinner lesson at the Raritan Inn: Each spring, SBO partners with the Raritan Inn to bring together experienced educators on a variety of topics ranging from entomology to night fishing. Follow their instagram for fishing tips, guides and to keep up with all things South Branch Outfitters!

The Sporting Life (Whitehouse Station)

Located in Whitehouse Station, NJ, The Sporting Life is dedicated to providing quality and a variety of fishing gear from rods, live bait, lures, cleaning kits, vests, and even outerwear. Besides being a one-stop-shop for your fishing needs, reviewers of the shop mention that the staff in store are extremely knowledgeable and helpful when it comes to all kinds of fishing, including fly fishing! What better way to join the sport, or get reacquainted than a local expert?

Don’t worry, we know the spots!

Now that you’re set on gear and logistics, you’re probably wondering where you can actually practice the art of fishing in Hunterdon County. Don’t worry, we know all of the good spots (and there’s a lot of them)!

Kenwood Lock Gorge (Hunterdon)

Referred to as “One of New Jersey’s most beautiful places”, Ken Lockwood Gorge is between Califon and High Bridge in Lebanon Township where you can access 563 acres of a plethora of fauna, flora, and fish! Best known for a trout fishing destination (and crane sightings), you’ll enjoy trying out your new fishing gear in this serene and plentiful spot.

Hoffman Park (Hampton)

Located on Baptist Church Road in Union Township, Hoffman’s park offers 354 acres and, naturally, lots of fishing opportunities! With over 30 ponds for fishing. Although it’s catch and release, Hoffman’s offers ponds of all sizes to fish from, and fish of all sizes, too! . 

Spruce Run Reservoir + Union Furnace Reserve (Union Township)

If you haven’t already checked out Spruce Run Reservoir for fishing, you probably didn’t know about its counterparts, including the Union Furnace Reserve! The reserve is located on Van Syckels Road and offers access to the Spruce Run Creek just before it enters the Spruce Run Reservoir, so we encourage you to try both fishing spots! Spruce Run Reservoir and its creeks are stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, yellow perch, and carp. You’re sure to have some luck with a catch here! Click to access a map of Union Furnace Reserve.

Round Valley Reservoir (Clinton)

Hunterdon is no stranger to reservoirs, and next on the list is Round Valley! With two launch ramps for small motorboats, canoes, and kayaks, you can access the reservoir’s 3.591 miles of water (and fishing). Shoreline anglers and those without boats can also take advantage of bank fishing near the park’s launch ramps and Ranger Cove. Known for its big trout catches, check out Round Valley Reservoir for fantastic fishing and lush scenery!

Looking for your new fishing spot in Hunterdon County?

Whether you want to fly fish, bait fishing, or any other kind of fishing, Hunterdon County has something for all of your fishing needs! With an already outstanding list of wildlife and outdoor options to explore, add these spots to your list for a fun-filled (and hopefully fish-filled) day!