A person in waders stands on the beach fishing.

The Cape May National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for fishing within the Two Mile Beach Unit. Surf fishing is permitted in the Atlantic Ocean portion from October 1 to March 31 and along the Cape May Inlet year-round. Access to these areas is available from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset via public roads and footpaths.

While no specific refuge permit or fees are required for fishing, all saltwater anglers must register with New Jersey’s saltwater fishing registry. Please note that no fish, including baitfish and eggs, may be introduced onto the refuge without appropriate state and refuge permits. Commonly caught species include Atlantic croaker, bluefish, striped bass, and flounder.

Laws, rules, and regulations