Peter C. Mosero, age 70, of North Cape May, was reported missing around 7:20 a.m. at the Lepor Pits Fresh Water Ponds in Lower Township.
Police say another fisherman had talked to Mosero, but was later unable to locate him.
Fishing gear was found floating on the water near the spot where Mosero was last seen.
Authorities arrived on the scene and, around 8:08 a.m., Mosero's body was found in approximately 12 feet of water.
Investigators say nothing about the drowning appears to be suspicious.
"The area of the pond where Mr. Mosero was fishing drops off quickly. We believe Mr. Mosero waded into deep water, became submerged and unfortunately was unable to return to shore," Lower Township Police Chief Edward Donohue said in a statement.
Mosero was a retired Lieutenant from the Philadelphia Fire Department.
