Charlie's Bait N Tackle Archives - The Fisherman

Charlie's Bait N Tackle

May 11, 2026 - 10:32:57

Philly Billy of Charlie’s Bait and Tackle in Normandy Beach said clams are stroking plenty of stripers in the local suds as some sessions are giving up over a dozen bass per angler on the higher tides, especially for hardcores Nichole and Becky. Night shifters are still finding quality overslot fish casting black Bombers and SP Minnows.

May 11, 2026 - 10:32:48

Philly Billy at Charlie’s Bait & Tackle said anglers are still managing to connect with striped bass off the beach during low tide while working plugs through the wash. Despite dirty water conditions and relentless winds, the bite has remained surprisingly productive for persistent surfcasters. Billy also reported seeing numerous osprey swooping into the surf to snatch fluke from the shallows, a sure sign that bait and fish life are active along the beachfront. In addition, multiple customers have reported bluefish activity along the oceanfront, with cut bunker producing the best results for anglers targeting the aggressive choppers.

May 04, 2026 - 10:28:52

Philly Billy of Charlie’s Bait and Tackle in Normandy Beach said stripers are cooperating big time in the local suds as Luke from the shop had some on plugs but noticed the clamslingers were absolutely crushing the fish. Don’t overlook the bayside docks and bulkheads as the linesiders are still hanging tough in the back hitting plugs as well as clam baits slung off the docks. I threw a few clams out this week and catching a bunch, I also had one, what I could only think was a bluefish, bite me off.

May 04, 2026 - 10:28:44

Philly Billy at Charlie’s Bait & Tackle reports solid surf action, with striped bass cooperating nicely for anglers soaking clams off the beach. The bite has been consistent, and those dialing in the presentation are seeing the best results. Luke from the shop got in on the action Friday night and managed a few bass of his own, but noted that nearby anglers fishing clams were into more fish. It’s a good reminder that with this bite, bait and technique are making all the difference in who’s cashing in.

485 Rt. 35 N.
Normandy Beach, NJ 08738
phone: 732-793-1144

Keeping up the traditions of the great legend himself, steps in Pete Kupper, the new owner of the Normandy Beach Bait N' Tackle Shop. In addition to fulfilling your fishing needs – to include vast knowledge, the shop also features a complete selection of jewelry, sea shells, shark's teeth and nautical decor. A great stop for the entire family. For over forty years, Ernie Wuesthoff has provided NJ anglers with the supplies they need for successful fishing along the Central Jersey Shore. Wuesthoff became a legend among surf fishermen along the Central Jersey coast after opening the shop in 1962. Everyone immediately knew he was being referred to when anyone asked “How’s Ernie doing?” Ernie Wuesthoff, former owner of The Bait ’n’ Tackle Shop in Normandy Beach, passed away in 2010 at the age of 84. The shop is directly across the lot from famed Charlie’s Farm Market – stop in and say hello.