Fishing in New Jersey

Fishing Regulations in New Jersey

Size limits, bag limits, and seasons by species in New Jersey.

In New Jersey, the Division of Fish and Wildlife sets the freshwater rules while the Jersey Shore, with its striped bass, fluke, and bluefish, follows its own seasons and limits. Regulations differ between inland trout and bass waters and the coast, so check the current rules for your target before you keep a fish.

51 species with limits81 special regulation bodies of water

Notable waters

Raritan RiverMetedeconk RiverManasquan RiverMusconetcong RiverPaulinskill RiverPequest RiverPohatcong CreekRamapo River

Statewide

Jan 1 – Apr 14, Jun 16 – Dec 31

Min size12"Daily bag5Possession5

Combined With: Smallmouth Bass

Closed Period Catch Release Only: Apr 15 – Jun 15

Specific bodies of water may have special regulations.

Always confirm with the official state agency before keeping a fish. Regulations can change and local exceptions may apply.

Check New Jersey Regulations on the App

Take size limits, bag limits, and seasons for every species with you on the water. CatchVault is on iOS, with Android on the way.

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