NEW JERSEY FISHING LICENSES REQUIREMENTS
When fishing in New Jersey, anyone who is 16 or older needs to have a valid fishing license to fish in the fresh waters in the state, whether you are using a handline, rod and line, or longbow and arrow. A freshwater fishing license is required even if you are fishing on privately owned lakes or other waters.
When it comes to New Jersey saltwater fishing, the state doesn’t require a general saltwater fishing license for recreational surfcasting, deep-sea or bay fishing. However, saltwater anglers must register with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program. And, depending on what you’re after, you may need to get a license or permit. For instance, you’ll need a shellfish license if you plan to take mollusks. And tuna permits are required for
FISHING LICENSE EXEMPTIONS
New Jersey offers some exemptions to its freshwater fishing license requirement. The following individuals are exempt:
- New Jersey residents who are age 70 or older
- Farmers and their family members who live on a farm
- Those fishing on a free fishing day
It’s important to note that, even if you qualify for an exemption, you’ll still need to follow all New Jersey fishing regulations.
TYPES OF FISHING LICENSES AND FEES
There are several types of fishing licenses available to both residents and non-residents in New Jersey. To qualify as a resident, you must have lived in New Jersey for six months immediately before the time of your application.
Residents
- Annual (valid from the date of purchase to December 31) for anglers 16-64: $22.50
- Annual senior license for those 65-69: $12.50
- Annual all-around sportsman (includes fishing, firearm hunting, and bowhunting licenses): $72.25
- Annual trout stamp (required if you’re attempting to take trout): $10.50
- Fishing buddy (for a current and new angler): $11.75 each
Nonresidents
- Annual (ages 16 and up): $34.00
- 7-day vacation: $19.50
- 2-day vacation: $9.00
- Fishing buddy: $17.50 each
There are also discounted or free licenses available for certain anglers in the state. These reduced fees apply to:
- Active-duty servicemen and women: anyone on active duty can fish with a resident license
- New Jersey National Guard members: these individuals are entitled to free licenses
- Veterans with a service-connected disability: New Jersey veterans with a service-connected disability are eligible for free licenses
- Legally blind residents: those registered with the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impairs can get a free license
WHERE TO BUY YOUR FISHING LICENSE
You can purchase your fishing license from the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife license website at www.nj.wildlifelicense.com. When you use the system, you can buy and print your license for immediate use. Keep in mind, however, that there is a service charge and credit card processing fee when you go online to purchase your license.
You can also buy your New Jersey fishing license from a licensed agent in the state. The Division of Fish & Wildlife has a licensed agent locate app to make it easy to find an agent near you.
No matter what method you use to buy your license, all purchasers are required to complete the New Jersey Child Support Certification process.
Once you have your fishing license, it must be displayed visibly on your outer clothing.