New Jersey · Jersey Shore
SWORDFISH FISHING
IN CAPE MAY
Cape May is a solid destination for swordfish fishing. Book a charter and target swordfish with local experts.
About Swordfish Fishing in Cape May
An iconic deep-water species prized for incredible fights and outstanding flesh.
Cape May is a solid destination for swordfish fishing.
Scientific name: Xiphias gladius
Swordfish Seasonal Calendar — Cape May
Month-by-month availability for swordfish in Cape May, NJ.
How to Catch Swordfish in Cape May
Techniques & Bait
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
Recommended Tackle
Your captain will provide all tackle and gear suited to the target species and local conditions.
Best Deep Sea Fishing Fishing Spots in Cape May
Top spots where local captains target swordfish and other deep sea fishing species.
Spencer Canyon
Spencer Canyon is a deep submarine canyon approximately 80 miles southeast of Cape May where the continental shelf drops from 300 to over 3,000 feet. The canyon walls create powerful upwelling that concentrates yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, white marlin, and mahi-mahi along temperature breaks and color changes. Spencer Canyon is the closest major canyon to Cape May and a primary target for overnight offshore trips.
Wilmington Canyon
Wilmington Canyon lies approximately 90 miles offshore of Cape May, cutting deep into the continental shelf edge and attracting a wide range of pelagic species. Blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, wahoo, and swordfish patrol the canyon's walls and edges where warm Gulf Stream water meets cooler shelf water. It is one of the most productive canyons in the mid-Atlantic and a cornerstone of Cape May's offshore charter fishery.
Baltimore Canyon
Baltimore Canyon is one of the largest and most famous submarine canyons on the East Coast, lying roughly 60 miles offshore and accessible from Cape May on extended trips. The canyon's massive structure concentrates yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, white marlin, blue marlin, and longfin albacore along its edges and walls. Tournament-level catches of billfish and tuna make Baltimore Canyon a bucket-list offshore destination for Cape May anglers.
Cape May Offshore Lumps
The offshore lumps south of Cape May are a series of natural bottom rises along the continental shelf in 80 to 150 feet of water that concentrate gamefish. Yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo cruise over these features when warm water pushes onto the shelf during summer and early fall. The lumps serve as essential waypoints for charter captains running from Cape May toward the deeper canyon grounds.
Other Species in Cape May
More fish you can target while visiting Cape May.
Swordfish Fishing in Cape May — FAQ
Swordfish fishing in Cape May is productive during .
Swordfish fishing charters in Cape May are typically deep sea fishing trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
No — when you book a charter in Cape May, your captain provides all required New Jersey fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Swordfish regulations in New Jersey include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Swordfish in Cape May, you may also catch Striped Bass, Tautog, Bluefish, Fluke, Black Sea Bass. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
Ready to Catch Swordfish in Cape May?
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