NJ Saltwater Fishing Regulations

New Jersey Saltwater Fishing Regulations Information

Saltwater fishing regulations in New Jersey are an important part of maintaining healthy recreational marine fisheries. These regulations are put into place as a result of fish population assessments by biologists to help preserve New Jersey fishing opportunities now and for the future.

New Jersey Saltwater Fishing Limits, Seasons, Size Regulations

There are a few examples of the types of recreational fishing laws you need to be aware of when checking the New Jersey saltwater regulations:

• Daily bag limits (maximum number fish of a given species and size that a person may legally keep in a single day) and possession limits (the number of saltwater fish allowed to be kept in the field or in transit). Understand the difference between the two.
• Saltwater fishing seasons in New Jersey. Note any specific timeframes when there are closures for certain species. Keep fish only during open seasons.
• New Jersey saltwater fishing size regulations and associated measurement requirements. With the exception of black sea bass and sharks, marine species in New Jersey are measured from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail.

In addition to the above, there may also be regulations that apply to cleaning or filleting fish with a minimum size limit while at sea.

New Jersey Saltwater License Information

Unlike other states, New Jersey does not require a specific saltwater fishing license, but you will need to have a New Jersey fishing license if you are age 16 or older. However, you should note that the state does have a requirement which states that most saltwater anglers must register with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program.

Depending on the species of fish or shellfish, there may also be specialized saltwater licenses or permits required. Always check with the state agency for updates and detailed information.