Great Bay is a substantial and ecologically rich estuary located in southern New Jersey, spanning Ocean and Atlantic Counties just north of Atlantic City. As a nearly pristine backbarrier lagoon system, it connects to the Atlantic Ocean via Little Egg Inlet and is fed by the Mullica River and its tributaries. This estuary is a critical nursery and spawning ground for a wide array of marine species, offering diverse fishing opportunities from its shallow flats to its deeper channels. The underwater lands are state-owned, and the area is recognized for its significant habitats, including extensive salt marshes, oyster beds, and sea lettuce-covered bottoms.