CatchWindow fishing intelligence

Ship John Shoal, NJ Daily Water Report — August 22, 2026

Today at Ship John Shoal, it's a prime day for boaters with a stellar 9/10 suitability score, thanks to light winds and calm seas. Kayakers can also rejoice with an 8.2/10 score, as the gentle 6-knot breeze from the ESE and minimal wave action make for smooth paddling. The calmest waters will be around midnight, with wave heights barely reaching 0.04 meters, so early risers might catch the best conditions. Surfers, however, might find the 4.5/10 score a bit underwhelming. The waves are peaking at a mere 0.32 meters, hardly the stuff of epic rides. Divers have a decent 7.6/10 score, but the high chlorophyll levels indicate a bloom, which could affect underwater visibility more than usual. Fishing scores a middling 5.6/10, with the best solunar periods being from 6:12 to 8:12 AM and again from 6:12 to 8:12 PM. The tide will be high at 6:09 AM and 6:35 PM, creating opportunities for strategic casting. The waxing gibbous moon might also play a subtle role in fish behavior, though clarity could be compromised by the algal bloom. As for other wildlife watchers, a 6.8/10 score suggests moderate activity, but keep an eye on the wind, which is expected to gust up to 16.9 knots around 6:00 AM, potentially making some critters skittish. Looking ahead, the weather remains relatively mild, with increasing temperatures and moderate winds expected over the next few days. Rain might make a brief appearance tomorrow morning, but otherwise, conditions look stable. If you’re planning an outing, today’s calm waters and mild weather make for an excellent excuse to hit the water, especially if boating is on your agenda.