Newbie

[Math716]

Good Morning everyone,

I just recently took up fishing after taking my son on a little excursion to Molder's Preserve in Old Bridge NJ (Where I live). I really enjoyed my day there, even though my son didn't. Since that day, I went out and bought some cheap fishing gear and a fishing license. I've been using Google Maps and the NJ state website to try to find some good spots to fish. Some have been ok, but some have been dreadful with either no access to the lake, total vegetation/sludge on top of the water or no fish. I have caught some fish at various spots. A couple of catfish, a few sunnies and one or two that I have no idea what they were. I unfortunately also landed a few turtles which were no fun at all. I don't care what I catch, I just enjoy the action and throw back whatever I might land.

Brings me to my questions;
Could anyone recommend some good rivers, stream, ponds or lakes in the Middlesex or Monmouth county areas? Im fishing from the shore, so please nothing that I need a boat.


Secondly, what is the best bait to use when fishing in these areas. I have had the most success with shrimp so far. I've tried worms and hot dogs and they've worked a bit, but the shrimp has been best by far.

Any other tips that you might have would certainly be welcome.

Thanks
Matt