Fishing in New Jersey. About fish. lakes, licenses and regulations

What kind of fish can you catch in New Jersey

Below are 75 types of fish that can be caught in New Jersey. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from New Jersey and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of New Jersey to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

Albacore

American eel

American gizzard shad

Lakes and reservoirs for fishing in New Jersey

Below are the largest and most popular lakes, reservoirs, and bays for fishing in New Jersey. Each New Jersey body of water includes information on fish species, analytics, and a map with fishing spots

Licenses for fishing in New Jersey

Licenses can be purchased online at NJ Fish and Wildlife's internet license sales site or at various license agents. For those on active duty in the United States armed services, regardless of their current residency, a New Jersey resident fishing license can be bought. Additionally, resident veterans with a service-connected disability can avail free hunting and fishing licenses, stamps, and permits.

Category	License Type	Resident Price	Non-Resident Price
Freshwater Fishing	Ages 16–64 yrs.	$22.50	$34.00
Senior Resident Fishing	Ages 65–69 yrs.	$12.50	-
	70 & over	Free	-
Resident Trout Stamp	Ages 16–69 yrs.	$10.50	-
Non-resident Trout Stamp	-	-	$20.00
Non-resident Vacation Fishing	2-Day	-	$9.00
	7-Day	-	$19.50
All-Around Sportsman	(Includes resident fishing, firearm hunting and bow/arrow hunting licenses)	$72.25	-
WMA Boat Ramp Permit	-	$15.00	$15.00
Water Lowering, Fish Stocking, Baitfish Collecting, Fish Tagging Permits	-	$2.00	$2.00
Scientific Collecting Permits	-	$22.00	$22.00

*Please note that all licenses and permits are valid from the date of purchase to December 31st of each year

Fishing Regulations in New Jersey

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods

Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is prohibited.
Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is allowed only with specific permits and in designated areas.
Use of live fish as bait is restricted in certain waters to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Snagging fish is not allowed except in designated areas during specific seasons.
Spearing and bowfishing are permitted for certain species in specific waters.

Catch Limits

Trout: Daily limit varies by water body, typically 4 fish with size restrictions.
Bass (Largemouth and Smallmouth): Daily limit of 5, with a minimum length of 12 inches.
Crappie: Daily limit of 25, no size limit.
Catfish: Daily limit varies, generally no more than 5 fish.
Walleye: Daily limit of 3, with size restrictions in some waters.
Striped Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass: Limits and size restrictions vary, especially in marine waters.
Panfish (Bluegill, Sunfish): Daily limit generally 25-50, depending on the species and location.
Flounder: Daily limit and size restrictions vary, especially in coastal waters.
Pike and Muskellunge: Specific limits and size restrictions apply.
Shad and River Herring: Regulations vary, with some waters closed to fishing for these species.

Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies

Access to some waters may be restricted for environmental conservation or public safety reasons.
Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
Special regulations for fishing in state parks and wildlife refuges.
No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructures like dams and fish hatcheries.
Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.

Zones of Special Regulation

Catch-and-release areas for certain species, especially trout and salmon.
Areas with gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only or fly fishing zones.
Slot limits for bass and other species in certain lakes and rivers.
Special regulations in waters with high fishing pressure or ecological sensitivity.
Trophy fisheries with enhanced size and bag limits in selected areas.

Protection of Rare Species

Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
Research fishing for rare species requires special permits.
Reporting accidental catches of rare species is essential for conservation efforts.
Areas with significant ecological value may have additional fishing restrictions.

Seasonal Restrictions

Closed seasons for specific species during spawning or migration periods.
Ice fishing regulations, including shelter and gear restrictions, during winter months.
Seasonal closures in sensitive ecological areas for species protection and habitat restoration.
Temporary closures during environmental events or for population studies.
Special regulations for early and late fishing seasons in certain areas.

Most popular cities for fishing in New Jersey

The largest and most popular fishing cities in New Jersey. Cities in New Jersey include information on fishing, as well as a map with fishing spots. Explore the cities to know what fish are caught and in which bodies of water.