Go Fish: The Best Places to Cast This July

July has always been one of my favorite months of the year. Maybe it’s the warm weather, the backyard barbecues, the Fourth of July celebrations, or the fact that summer is finally in full swing. But the fishing is probably at the top of the list. Around Ocean City, July is when everything comes alive. The beaches are packed, the Boardwalk is bustling, and nearly every dock, pier, bulkhead, and boat slip around town has an angler looking to hook a fish of a lifetime.

As has been the case for much of the season, flounder continue to dominate the conversation. Back-bay reports remain strong, with anglers finding quality keepers with plenty of shorts mixed in. The surf bite is also heating up. July traditionally marks a period where flounder move toward deeper waters and begin setting up on the wrecks and reefs scattered off our coastline.

Of course, flounder aren’t the only game in town. Striped bass, bluefish, tog, and sheepshead are all feeding aggressively throughout the area’s bays, bridges, and inlets. Many of these fish spend their days hanging tight to structure, making bridges, docks, bulkheads, and rock piles prime locations for anglers looking to bend a rod. For tog and sheepshead hunters, crabs remain king. Sand fleas and green crabs are local favorites at every bait shop. Looking for a full experience? Dig up some sand fleas along the surf line.

Meanwhile, striped bass and bluefish continue to offer action around the clock. While sunrise and sunset remain the most productive feeding windows, don’t overlook the overnight bite. These fish are opportunistic predators and often become even more aggressive under the cover of darkness. Artificial lure anglers have plenty of options. Paddle tails, twitch baits, and poppers can all produce explosive strikes. Those preferring natural bait will find success with bloodworms, bunker, and clam.

For anglers looking to take things to another level, July is prime time for offshore fishing. Long before most vacationers have finished their morning coffee, tournament teams, charter captains, and recreational anglers alike can be found loading ice, fuel, and tackle before making the trip toward the canyons and offshore grounds. Yellowfin tuna crashing spreader bars, mahi-mahi gathering around floating debris, and swordfish prowling deep canyon edges all become realistic possibilities during the heart of summer.