What Ocean Beach Park offers anglers

Ocean Beach Park in New London sits on a mile-long sandy beach with rocky outcroppings and jetties that hold striped bass, bluefish, and summer flounder. The park charges a day-use fee (rates vary by season and residency status) and allows fishing from the beach and from the jetties at the park's east and west ends. Access is straightforward: you park, walk to the water, and fish. The beach itself is open to the public year-round, though the park's facilities operate seasonally.

The jetties are the most productive spots. The east jetty, which extends into the sound, creates current breaks and deeper water where striped bass hold during spring and fall migrations. The west jetty is shorter but still worth fishing, especially during slack tide when baitfish congregate. The sandy beach between the jetties produces bluefish in summer and early fall, and flounder move in during July and August.

Parking and facilities are located near the main beach entrance. Restrooms, a snack bar, and picnic areas operate during the warmer months. There is no bait shop on-site, so bring your own or stop at a tackle shop in New London before you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Ocean Beach Park charges a day-use fee that varies by season and whether you live in Connecticut; check the park's website for current rates before you go.
  • The east and west jetties are the most reliable spots for striped bass and bluefish; the sandy beach between them holds flounder in midsummer.
  • Spring and fall are peak seasons for striped bass; summer brings bluefish and flounder, while winter fishing is possible but less productive.
  • Bring your own bait or tackle—there is no shop at the park, and the nearest tackle retailers are in downtown New London.
  • Parking fills quickly on warm weekends; arrive early or plan a weekday visit if you want a reliable spot.

Seasons and what to expect

Spring (April through May) brings the first major striped bass run as fish move north from their winter grounds. Water temperatures climb from the low 50s to the high 60s, and the jetties see consistent action, especially around dawn and dusk. Baitfish are abundant, and live herring or mackerel work well. Expect moderate crowds on weekends.

Summer (June through August) shifts the focus to bluefish and flounder. Bluefish arrive in June and stay through September, feeding aggressively on the beach and around the jetties. Flounder move into the shallower sandy areas in July and August; small live shiners or squid work best. Water temperatures reach the mid-70s, and the park is busiest during this period. Fishing is often better in early morning or late evening when the beach is less crowded.

Fall (September through October) brings the second striped bass migration and some of the year's best fishing. Water cools back into the 60s and 50s, baitfish are plentiful, and bass feed heavily before heading south. Bluefish are still present in September but taper off by November. This is the most reliable season for consistent action.

Winter (November through March) is slower but not dead. Striped bass remain in the area, though they are less active in cold water. Some anglers fish the jetties on mild days, but expect fewer fish and longer waits between bites. The park's facilities are closed, and parking is less congested.

Regulations and what you need

Connecticut requires a saltwater fishing license for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) website, at tackle shops, or at some sporting goods stores. A one-day license is available, or you can buy an annual permit. The license is inexpensive and takes minutes to obtain.

Striped bass have a minimum size of 18 inches and a daily limit of two fish per person. Bluefish have no size minimum but a daily limit of 10 fish. Flounder must be at least 12 inches and you can keep up to five per day. These regulations can change, so check DEEP's website before you fish to confirm current rules.

The park itself has no special fishing restrictions beyond the state regulations. Jetty fishing is allowed during all daylight hours. No fishing is permitted from the swimming beach during designated swim hours (typically mid-June through Labor Day), but the jetties remain open.

How to get there and where to park

Ocean Beach Park is located at 98 Neptune Avenue in New London, about 10 minutes south of downtown. From Interstate 95, take Exit 83 and follow signs toward the waterfront. The park entrance is well marked. Parking is in a large lot near the main beach; additional overflow parking is available during peak season.

Day-use parking requires a fee. Connecticut residents pay a lower rate than out-of-state visitors. Rates are typically lower on weekdays and higher on weekends and holidays. The park is open dawn to dusk year-round, though the main facilities close in late fall and reopen in spring.

If you are fishing the jetties, park in the main lot and walk east or west along the beach to reach them. The walk is short—less than five minutes to either jetty. Bring water and sun protection; there is limited shade on the beach.

Tackle and bait recommendations

For striped bass, live bait is most effective: live herring, mackerel, or eels work well on the jetties. Bring a small cooler with ice. If you prefer lures, metal spoons (1 to 2 ounces) and soft plastics on jig heads (3/8 to 1/2 ounce) are reliable. Cast along the jetty edges and work the lure slowly through the current.

Bluefish are aggressive and will hit most moving lures. Metal spoons, small plugs, and soft plastics all work. Use a wire or heavy monofilament leader (30 to 50 pounds) because bluefish have sharp teeth and will cut through lighter line. Live baitfish also work, but lures are faster and more fun.

For flounder, use small live shiners, squid, or clams on a simple rig: a small hook (size 1/0 to 3/0) on a short leader above a small sinker. Fish the sandy bottom between the jetties and work slowly. Flounder bite best on slack tide when bait sits still on the bottom.

Bring a basic tackle kit: a medium spinning rod (6 to 7 feet), 15- to 20-pound monofilament or braided line, a small net, a knife or line cutter, and a small tackle box with hooks, sinkers, and leaders. The jetties are rocky, so wear rubber-soled shoes with good grip.

Nearby tackle shops and services

New London has several tackle retailers within 10 to 15 minutes of the park. The closest option is usually downtown New London, where you can find live bait, tackle, and fishing licenses. Call ahead to confirm hours and bait availability, especially on weekends when supplies can run low.

If you need a meal or supplies, the park has a snack bar during the warmer months. For a full restaurant, downtown New London is a short drive away. Gas stations and convenience stores are nearby if you need ice or drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Ocean Beach Park in winter?

Yes. The park is open year-round, and fishing is allowed. Winter fishing is slower than spring and fall, but striped bass remain in the area. The park's facilities (restrooms, snack bar) are closed, so plan accordingly. Parking is easier to find on cold-weather days.

Do I need a boat to fish here, or is shore fishing enough?

Shore fishing is excellent. The jetties and beach hold plenty of fish, and you do not need a boat. The jetties are the most productive spots and are easily reached on foot from the parking lot.

What is the best time of day to fish Ocean Beach Park?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late evening (late afternoon to sunset) are most productive. Striped bass and bluefish feed more actively during low-light hours. Flounder can bite throughout the day but are more active on slack tide.

Is there a bait shop at the park?

No. Bring your own bait or stop at a tackle shop in New London before you arrive. Live bait is most effective for striped bass and flounder, so plan ahead if you want fresh herring or shiners.

What should I do if the parking lot is full?

Overflow parking is available during peak season, though it may be farther from the beach. On very busy days, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving earlier in the morning. Parking fills fastest on warm weekends in summer.