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Pelagics, Bottom Dwellers, and Bent Rods
Cape May - Cape May, NJ
Offshore action out of Cape May has been steady this week, with a good mix of pelagic and bottom species keeping lines tight and coolers full. Boats heading to the Canyons and deeper wrecks are finding quality fish and consistent bites.
Yellowfin tuna are showing up in solid numbers around the Carteret and Wilmington Canyons, especially during early morning and late afternoon temperature breaks. Trolling spreader bars and skirted ballyhoo has been productive, with most fish in the 40–70 lb range. A few bigeye tuna have been caught deeper into the overnight chunking runs, especially around 70–80 fathoms.
Mahi-mahi have been hanging around the lobster pots and weed lines, with larger bulls showing up farther offshore. Keep a few spinning rods rigged with small jigs or cut bait—they’re aggressive and not picky right now.
Bottom fishing is also delivering. Wrecks in 150–200 feet are holding golden tilefish, blue line tile, and plenty of sea bass. Drop baits like squid or cut mackerel are getting the job done, especially with strong drifts.
Weather windows have been tight, but when it’s fishable, Cape May offshore is worth the run. The bite is on—now’s the time to go deep.