Visit For:

Fishing

The freshwater section of the tidal Manasquan River is well stocked with rainbow trout come Opening Day of trout season in April. Catfish, white perch, and eels are also abundant. A car-top boat launch makes this area a great place to wet a line and paddle.

Hunting

The WMA is stocked with pheasants in November and December, and provides limited upland game, turkey, waterfowl, and deer hunting because of the surrounding developed areas. Small game hunting for rabbits and squirrels is possible. Archers may have the best success for deer in DMZ 51.

Dog Training

The dog training area sits in the middle of the WMA and is stocked with chukar in early October prior to small game season. This area is designated for dog training between May 1 and August 31. During the remaining months of the year, you may run your dog on the entire tract.

Wildlife

Waterfowl and shore birds use the WMA extensively, and the turtle population is quite robust. Approximately 90 acres of the WMA were planted to aid pollinators, including 19 acres of a honeybee/pollinator mix.

Access

Owned by New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Fish & Wildlife, the Wildlife Management Area System is comprised of more than 360,000 acres in 122 areas throughout the state, which is more than 44% of New Jersey’s state-owned public open space. WMAs are maintained and supported with funding from hunting and fishing license sales, the Federal Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program and the Wildlife Habitat Supporter Program.

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Wildlife Management Area Maps

WMA Regulations

WMAs are patrolled by NJ Fish & Wildlife Conservation Police Officers to ensure public safety. If you see violations while visiting a WMA, please call the 24-hour DEP hotline at 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337).

Manasquan River WMA Web Map

Manasquan River WMA Video