With a population of about 9,700, the small town of Keansburg has long been a destination for local anglers and seasonal visitors, famous for its great water views and the impressive Keansburg Fishing Pier stretching nearly 2,400 feet out into the Raritan Bay.
Part of the success of the Keansburg Pier is due to Kathi Smock, a dedicated manager who has spent more than 30 years at this amazing fishing spot. With her approachable personality and kindness towards children and families, expect to find Kathi there to greet you; rain, sleet, or snow, she is always there except maybe when there is lightning!
Kathi’s connection to the pier is personal, with her father playing an extremely important role in its construction in 1995. In the beginning, Kathi’s father managed the pier, running everything including the bait shop and the tackle shop in the front. Later Kathi’s father retired and when that happened, there was no other person to care for the pier like he did except for Kathi herself.
Kathi’s fishing passion started at age 15, and she felt a true connection to the water aboard her father’s boat. Today, she runs the bait and tackle shop at the pier, welcoming visitors and providing intel on what fish are biting, what bait to use, and where on the pier to fish. Her station, situated right at the front of the pier, is a great spot where fishermen can buy tackle, pick up supplies, and receive wristbands for access to the pier. Currently, the fee is $12 for adults and $6 for children. That fee also includes advice as she has helped countless fishermen catch their first fish, providing tips and advice for both novices and experts.
The Keansburg Fishing Pier is widely known for its many fish species and the sizes of some impressive catches. Anglers can expect to hook a variety of fish, including fluke, weakfish, bluefish, kingfish, spots, croaker, striped bass, and even the occasional cobia, along with traditional bycatch species like dogfish, skates, rays, and sea robins. According to Kathi, among some of the pier’s most memorable catches were a massive 49-inch striped bass and large bluefish, with the occasional whale and dolphin sightings.
What is great about the pier is its length and size, with more than enough space for both experienced and novice anglers. With a filet station by the entrance, and bathrooms along the way, the pier has everything you need for a beautiful day of fishing. If you don’t have your own fishing gear, Kathi’s bait and tackle shop offers rentals and sells a wide range of bait, including squid, bunker, and worms but make sure to call and check what she has available.
The hours at Keansburg Pier can vary, typically opening at 7 a.m. and closing its gates at 10 p.m. However, these times can shift based on the season and weather conditions. During the peak striper season, Kathi will sometimes keep the pier open all night often preferable for striped bass anglers seeking an overnight adventure.
Many fishermen have created long lasting friendships with Kathi, with pier regulars like Arnold and Mark – among countless others – often found with lines in along the pier, enjoying their time and hoping for a monster fish. For these fishermen, Keansburg Fishing Pier is more than a fishing spot, it’s a second home.
Kathi is sharp when enforcing the rules that help maintain the quality of the fishing pier. Regulations regarding size restrictions, especially for species like striped bass, are closely monitored. The use of circle hooks is required to minimize harm to fish. These rules are also designed to ensure that visitors have a safe day of fishing, preserve the health of the local fish populations, and ensure that the pier remains packed full of fish for years. Alcohol, cast nets, and bait traps are not permitted on the pier. Be warned, Kathi will quickly escort you off the pier if she catches you breaking the rules.
If you plan to visit Keansburg Pier, Kathi advises that you come prepared. The pier offers little to no shade so she recommends that you bring sunscreen, a hat, and possibly an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun. The pier sells drinks to quench your thirst and snacks if you are too lazy to walk off the pier. Kathi’s friendly attitude towards fishermen and tons of experience make her a valuable asset to the pier, and she’s always available for fishing advice and just a good conversation about nothing in particular.
Keansburg pier offers a great view of the Raritan Bay and even New York City. Unfortunately, walkers are not permitted on the pier. Even if you are just there for the views, you must pay the full price to get on the pier. Keansburg has had some fun contests to participate in throughout the season, with prizes that might include a fishing rod, tackle boxes, and even pier nets.
The next time you are looking for a prime fishing spot along the Raritan, consider a trip to Keansburg Fishing Pier; it’s located at 275 Beachway in Keansburg. And be sure to say hello to Kathi!
