NJ Saltwater Fishing Limits

Saltwater Fishing Limits in New Jersey

If you are planning a New Jersey fishing trip to target saltwater fish species, be sure to read the current state regulations online, including fishing limits and license requirements. There are a few different types of limits that may be referred to in the regulations, so it will be helpful to have an understanding of how each of these limits is defined.

Biologists conduct saltwater fisheries surveys or studies on a regular basis and, depending on the findings, they may need to update these limits accordingly. The reason these New Jersey saltwater fishing limits are put into place is to help protect our fish populations.

Saltwater Bag and Possession Limits

Know the difference between bag limits and possession limits when you check the regulations. In general, a bag limit is the number of fish a person is allowed to keep in a day, whereas the possession limit is the total number of fish from all days of fishing that a person is allowed to possess at a given time.

NJ Saltwater Fishing Size Limits

In addition to bag limit and possession limits, minimum size limits will be outlined in the New Jersey fishing regulations. These size limits are usually specified in inches, and the regulations will state how fish are to be measured. For example, fish may be measured from the tip of the snout to the tip of the tail, from the tip of the snout to the fork of the tail, or from the lower jaw to the fork of the tail. Make sure you read the size limits carefully so that you understand how to take a legal measurement.

Fishing Limits in Federal Waters

When you are learning how to saltwater fish in New Jersey for offshore species, know that federal regulations may apply if you enter into federal waters. In this case, you will need to check with the National Marine Fisheries Service. These types of regulations may pertain to species such as billfish, tuna, flounder, and cod.

Fishing Gear Regulations and Special Permits

There may also be saltwater fishing gear regulations or special permits required in reference to specific species. These types of New Jersey saltwater fishing limits may prohibit certain types of gear, such as trot lines, or specify that only hook and line saltwater shore fishing rigs are permitted.