Salt Water Fishing In New Jersey

You Only Need To Register For Saltwater Fishing In New Jersey. No Need for a Fishing License.

Marine | Recreational | Fish & Wildlife frequently asked questions. Do I need a saltwater fishing license? No, but you must register with NJ's Saltwater Recreational Registry Program, which can only be done online. Click here for more information.

Who Needs to Register?

NOTE: Anglers with a valid registration with the National Saltwater Angler Registry or those with a valid license from another exempted state must register (for free) with the NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry Program. Registration with NJ will exempt you from having to register with the National Saltwater Angler Registry.

Individual saltwater anglers ages 16 and older MUST register if ANY of the following criteria are met:

Recreationally fish with a hand line or rod and line, spearfish or fish by hand

Recreationally fish in the marine and fresh tidal waters of the State of New Jersey

Recreationally fish in marine waters outside the State of New Jersey but land the catch in New Jersey

Individual saltwater anglers are EXEMPT from registering if either of the following apply:

Under the age of 16.

Solely fish on for-hire (party and charter) vessels that are registered with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program

For-hire vessel owners/operators MUST register if:

Carry individuals who engage in recreational fishing in the marine and fresh tidal waters of the State of New Jersey

OR

Carry individuals who engage in recreational fishing in the marine waters outside the State of New Jersey but land their catch in New Jersey