Swimming River Reservoir in Monmouth County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Look for Swimming River Reservoir in the Monmouth County part of New Jersey. Tidal water begins 8.6 miles from here. It measures some 577 acres, and wind has room to build across it. The outline measures near 12 miles, so local knowledge counts. It is the biggest water on our Monmouth County list. The nearest town is Lincroft, 2 miles away. Then Tinton Falls, 2.1 miles, and Colts Neck, 2.1 miles. The county line is nowhere near, so one local authority covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Swimming River Reservoir

  Nothing in our records gives a depth for this one. A reservoir gives you a hard edge, a shelf, and not much else. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Reported across Monmouth County: bluegill, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed and yellow perch. The county list is broader than any single water. The shape of Swimming River Reservoir rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 74°F on average, January about 31°F. The year turns gently, without extremes at either end. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. The season on Swimming River Reservoir rarely departs from it.

• Tackle & Baits

  The access position is unclear from public sources. Records show no boating, which makes this a bank-only water. The nearest car park is half a mile from the water. There are toilets mapped about half a mile away. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. A landowner's word beats anything printed elsewhere. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. The nearest alternative is Marlu Lake, 2.3 miles out.