What Harborside Marina Offers

Harborside Marina in Kearny sits on the Hackensack River and operates as a working commercial and recreational fishing facility. The marina rents boats for half-day and full-day trips, sells tackle and bait, and provides access to the river and Newark Bay. Most boats are center-console or open recreational vessels in the 25- to 35-foot range, suitable for striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish in the estuary.

The location is practical rather than remote. You are fishing tidal waters minutes from the New Jersey Turnpike, with parking on-site and a tackle shop that stocks live bunker, eels, and standard saltwater gear. The marina operates year-round, though winter months see fewer boats in the water and shorter operating hours. Spring and fall are the busiest seasons.

Key Takeaways

  • Harborside Marina rents boats by the half-day or full day for fishing the Hackensack River and Newark Bay estuary.
  • The primary target species are striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish, with seasonal peaks in spring and fall.
  • You will need a New Jersey saltwater fishing license before boarding any rental boat.
  • The marina is accessible by car from the New Jersey Turnpike and offers on-site parking and a tackle shop.

Seasons and What Fish You Will Find

Spring (April through May) brings striped bass into the estuary as water temperatures warm. Fish move upriver to feed on bunker and herring. Bluefish arrive in May and remain through early summer. Expect 15- to 25-pound striped bass and 5- to 12-pound blues as the typical catch during this window.

Summer (June through August) is slower for striped bass because many move to deeper, cooler water offshore. Bluefish remain active, and weakfish (also called sea trout) become a secondary target. Water temperatures in the river can exceed 75 degrees, which pushes larger stripers out of the estuary.

Fall (September through November) is the second peak season. Striped bass return to the estuary as water cools, and bluefish are still present. October and early November often produce the largest stripers of the year. Weakfish are also active during this period.

Winter (December through March) sees fewer boats and shorter hours at the marina. Striped bass are present but less aggressive in cold water. Some anglers target them with live eels or slow-moving presentations, but the season is quieter overall.

Boat Rental Details and Costs

Harborside Marina rents boats on a half-day (typically 4 to 6 hours) and full-day (8 hours) basis. Half-day rates vary by boat size and season but generally range from $300 to $500. Full-day rentals run higher, often $500 to $800 or more depending on the vessel. Fuel is usually included, but confirm this when you call to reserve.

Most rental boats come with basic safety equipment: life jackets, fire extinguishers, and a radio. You are responsible for your own tackle, though the marina's shop can sell you what you need. Some boats have fish finders and GPS; ask what electronics are on your specific vessel before you leave the dock.

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during spring and fall. Walk-ups are sometimes possible but not may provide. Call ahead to confirm availability, pricing for your preferred date, and any deposit or payment terms.

What You Need Before You Go

New Jersey requires a saltwater fishing license for anyone 16 and older who is not actively employed as a commercial fisherman. You can purchase a license online through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website, or at many tackle shops and sporting goods stores. A 3-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting briefly.

Bring your own tackle unless you plan to buy everything at the marina. Standard striped bass and bluefish rigs include 20- to 30-pound monofilament or braided line, medium to medium-heavy spinning or conventional reels, and 1- to 3-ounce sinkers for the current. Live bunker and eels are the most effective baits; the marina sells both.

Wear layers and bring sunscreen. The river is exposed, and weather can change quickly. Bring a cooler with ice if you plan to keep fish. The marina does not provide ice, though some nearby tackle shops do.

Regulations and Catch Limits

New Jersey saltwater regulations set a minimum size of 18 inches for striped bass and a daily limit of one fish per angler (as of the most recent regulation year, though this can change). Bluefish have a minimum size of 8 inches and a daily limit of 10 fish. Weakfish have a minimum size of 12 inches and a daily limit of 4 fish.

Regulations change annually, so check the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website before your trip to confirm current size and bag limits. The marina staff can also tell you what is legal when you arrive.

All fish must be kept in a cooler or on ice. Catch-and-release is always allowed and does not count against your limit.

Getting There and Parking

Harborside Marina is located at 395 Shady Lane in Kearny, New Jersey, near the Hackensack River. From the New Jersey Turnpike, take Exit 15E toward Kearny and follow local roads to the marina. GPS coordinates are approximately 40.7650° N, 74.1350° W. On-site parking is available for customers.

The area is industrial and not scenic, but access is straightforward. Allow 20 to 30 minutes from central Newark or Jersey City, depending on traffic. There are no nearby restaurants or lodging at the marina itself; plan to eat before or after your trip.

Contact and Hours

Harborside Marina operates year-round but with reduced hours in winter. Summer hours are typically 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and winter hours are shorter. Call ahead to confirm the current schedule and to reserve a boat. The tackle shop is open during marina hours.

The marina's phone number and website are the fastest way to check availability, pricing, and any special conditions (weather closures, maintenance, etc.). Confirm all details when you book, including what is included in the rental price and what you need to bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my own fishing license, or does the boat rental include one?

You must have your own New Jersey saltwater fishing license. The boat rental does not include it. You can purchase a 3-day or annual license online or at a tackle shop before you arrive at the marina.

What if the weather is bad on the day I reserved?

Call the marina that morning. If conditions are unsafe, the marina will usually cancel or reschedule. Confirm their cancellation and rescheduling policy when you book, as terms vary.

Can I bring my own tackle and bait, or do I have to buy from the marina?

You can bring your own tackle and bait. The marina's shop is there for convenience if you need to buy on-site, but it is not required. Many anglers bring their own gear and buy only live bait at the marina.

Is the Hackensack River safe to fish?

The river is fishable and regularly stocked with striped bass by the state. Water quality has improved over decades, though the river is still industrial. Do not consume fish from the river; follow New Jersey's fish consumption advisories, which are posted on the state website.

What is the best time of year to fish Harborside?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–November) are the most productive seasons for striped bass and bluefish. October and early November often produce the largest fish. Summer is slower, and winter is quieter overall.