The refuge offers some of the area’s finest surf fishing and shellfishing. Detailed information can be found online and at our visitor center. In season, you may catch striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and several other species. A valid state fishing license is required. Fishing seasons are daylight hours, year-round. Night fishing is allowed as nesting piping plovers fledge and the beachfront begin. As of summer 2025, night fishing is open from August 15th - October 31st. All anglers must first obtain a night fishing permit from the refuge, either by visiting the gatehouse during open hours of operation or using the electronic fee station located at Lot 1. If you purchase a permit from the fee station, please make sure you display your receipt on the dash where it can be clearly checked by our law enforcement officer. You can also exchange your receipt for a window sticker during gatehouse open hours of operation.
The refuge tidal flats are open for commercial and recreational shellfishing, but are subject to periodic closures. Town and refuge permits are required and all refuge, state, and town shellfishing regulations apply. Please be advised that the refuge tidal flats lie in multiple town jurisdictions. You must hold valid permits for all localities where you will be shellfishing. Click the town name for more information on the towns of Newbury, Rowley, and Ipswich, or contact the towns directly.
Youth and adults are welcome to attend learn to fish events held periodically at the refuge, and in coordination with Plum Island Surfcasters. Information about upcoming opportunities can be found by visiting the events page.