South Branch Raritan River - High Bridge - New Jersey
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge - Water Flow Chart
South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge - Weather report & radar
South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midges, Blue Winged Olives (BWO) | Midday | 20-24 | Midge Emerger, BWO Emerger |
| February | Midges, Blue Winged Olives (BWO) | Midday | 20-24 | Midge Emerger, BWO Emerger |
| March | Blue Winged Olives (BWO), Quill Gordons | Midday | 18-20 | BWO Parachute, Quill Gordon Dry |
| April | Hendricksons, Caddisflies | Late Afternoon | 12-16 | Hendrickson Dun, Elk Hair Caddis |
| May | Sulphurs, March Browns | Evening | 14-18 | Sulphur Comparadun, March Brown Emerger |
| June | Light Cahills, Tricos | Morning | 14-18 | Light Cahill Dry, Trico Spinner |
| July | Tricos, Terrestrials | Morning | 18-22 | Trico Spinner, Ant Patterns |
| August | Tricos, Terrestrials | Morning | 18-22 | Trico Spinner, Ant Patterns |
| September | Tricos, Terrestrials | Morning | 18-22 | Trico Spinner, Ant Patterns |
| October | Slate Drakes, Blue Winged Olives (BWO) | Midday | 12-18 | Slate Drake Dry, BWO Parachute |
| November | Blue Winged Olives (BWO) | Midday | 18-22 | BWO Parachute, Pheasant Tail Nymph |
| December | Winter Stoneflies | Morning | 14-16 | Winter Stonefly Nymph, Zebra Midge |
South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge Access Points
The South Branch Raritan River in High Bridge offers spectacular spots for fly fishing. The best access points are:
- Calf’s Bridge on River Road: This spot is known for its abundant variety of fish, perfect for both beginners and advanced fly fishermen.
- Union Forge Park: This offers plenty of parking space and a large area for fishing. It’s an excellent place to fish for wild trout.
- The Water Treatment Plant off of Annandale High Bridge Road: Though the parking lot is small, the fishing spot makes up for it with its wide variety of trout.
- Jughandle Area at Main Street bridge: This spot is ideal for fly fishing as it offers easy river access. The fishing area extends upstream and downstream from the bridge.
Remember, before heading out, make sure you have the appropriate fishing license and always check the current regulations.
South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge Fishing Spots
High Bridge on the South Branch Raritan River is a prime location for fly fishing enthusiasts. The area provides ample opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. Below are the best spots:
- Ken Lockwood Gorge: This stretch is well-stocked with brown and rainbow trout. Its swift currents and deep pools make it a top choice.
- Hampton: Just downstream from High Bridge, this section offers shallow water making it ideal for wading and fly fishing.
- The Confluence: Where Spruce Run Creek feeds into the South Branch Raritan, there’s excellent fishing for both trout and smallmouth bass.
- Hoffman’s Crossing Bridge: Upstream of Ken Lockwood Gorge, this spot features slower moving water and is great for beginners.
Please remember that these are all catch-and-release fishing spots and follow local regulations.
South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge Local Fish Species
- Brown Trout – This fish is sought after for its vigorous fight when hooked, making it a thrilling catch for any fly fisher.
- Rainbow Trout – Known for their beautiful rainbow markings, these fish provide a great challenge for fly fishing enthusiasts.
- Brook Trout – The brook trout is a favorite among local fly fishers due to its beautiful colors and tasty flesh.
- Smallmouth Bass – Highly sought after for their fighting ability, making them an exciting catch on a fly rod.
- Largemouth Bass – This is a popular fish for all types of anglers due to its size and the challenging fight it puts up when hooked.
- Bluegill – Although small in size, bluegills are quick to bite and fun to catch, making them a favorite target for fly fishers.
- Northern Pike – This predatory species is prized for its fight and size, making it a exciting challenge for anglers.
- Chain Pickerel – Known for their aggressive behavior and sleek body design, chain pickerel are a sought after game fish for fly fishing.
About the South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge
Welcome to the remarkable South Branch Raritan River – High Bridge. Boasting a length of 51 miles, this beautiful river has a fascinating history that truly brings its scenic beauty to life.
Starting from its roots, the South Branch Raritan River can be traced back to the Glacial Ages. Back then, melting glaciers formed the river, carving it through the hills and valleys. It became a major resource, garnering the attention of various tribes, like the Lenni Lenape, who settled and prospered along its banks.
The High Bridge is deeply embedded in this river’s narrative. With its construction in 1876, it became a centerpiece of the Raritan River and a symbol of architectural prowess. The Bridge was part of the major railway system during the iron industry boom that helped High Bridge evolve into a lively city.
- The South Branch Raritan River and the High Bridge together form an important piece of New Jersey’s history.
- From offering sustenance to becoming an emblem of infrastructural prowess, the South Branch Raritan River with High Bridge is truly a historical marvel.
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