New Jersey's rich marine resources offer an outstanding variety of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to the state.
They also support an important commercial fishery and provide the basis for one of the state's most important industries - tourism. From blue claws to striped bass, from surf fishing to deep artificial reefs, the division's management of marine resources provides an incredible range of possibilities for enjoying our coastal areas.
Our marine resources provide something for anyone interested in saltwater fishing, clamming or crabbing. Stretching from Raritan Bay and Sandy Hook to Toms River and Barnegat Bay to Cape May and Delaware Bay, New Jersey's 83 miles of bayshores and 127 miles of Atlantic coastline provide unparalleled opportunities for enjoying our marine resources.
There are good reasons for fishing laws. All are intended to conserve and improve fish populations. Fisheries biologists study bodies of water to check on fish numbers and the health of fish populations. If there is a problem with a fish stock, regulations are created to help keep the fish population healthy. Marine Patrol officers check to make sure that fishing regulations are being obeyed.
There are several types of fishing regulations. Limits on the number of fish that can be caught are meant to keep anglers from taking too many fish at one time. Size limits are meant to protect fish of spawning size before they are caught. Fishing seasons protect fish during spawning and limit the catch on heavily fished waters. Fishing laws are meant to protect fish and make sure there is fishing to be shared by everyone.
If you fish, it's important that you know the rules and regulations. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. Fishing is a wonderful privilege; obeying fishing regulations is the responsibility that goes with it.
Print versions will be available at coastal sport shops and license agents in early May. Out-of-state residents can request a print copy by e-mailingnjfishandwildlife@dep.nj.gov.
Please note that the Marine Issue of the Fish and Wildlife DIGEST is published in May and the regulations contained in it are accurate at the time of publication. However, there are anticipated regulations changes that will occur after publication.
You can also call the 24/7 Marine Fisheries "listen-only" regulations line for current regulations at 609-292-2083. Bureau of Marine Fisheries staff can be contacted at 609-748-2020 for further information.
Complete 2015 Marine Issue of the Fish and Wildlife DIGEST
2015 Marine Recreational Fishing Regulations Summary Sheet
2015 Commercial Marine Fishing Regulations
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