How to Get Your New Jersey Fishing License

A person who is on active duty in the armed services of the United States is entitled to fish with a resident fishing license. You can purchase your fishing license from the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife license website at 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. Get started fishing today, purchase your fishing license online, check regulations and more. A licensee shall exhibit his license and tag for inspection to any conservation officer, deputy conservation officer, police officer or other person requesting to see it. All anglers in New Jersey who are 16 or older must have a license to fish legally.

Resident anglers need to purchase an annual license even if they just want to fish for a few days. The license covers both fresh and marine/tidal waters and costs $8.50 for residents and $20 for non-residents. Children under the age of 16 and senior residents over the age of 65 are exempt from the new licensing requirements. New Jersey offers some great saltwater fishing both recreationally and commercially. While you do not need a recreational saltwater license for New Jersey, you do need to register with the state’s saltwater registry. Commercial anglers are required to possess a saltwater fishing license.

Where to purchase a New Jersey Fishing License?

A freshwater fishing buddy license is available for new anglers to use if they want to introduce a buddy to the sport. The license and trout stamp can both be purchased between the dates of purchase and December 31. The fee for a marine license is $10 for residents age 16 – 64, free for residents over 65 and $15 for non-residents age 16 and older. Anglers must either possess a valid CT, MA, RI or NY marine fishing license to fish in Connecticut waters. Year-long freshwater licenses cost $14 for ages 16 and 17 ($16 for All Waters), $28 ($32 for All Waters) for residents ages 18 – 64 and $55 ($63 for All Waters) for non-residents. No reciprocity exists and all anglers fishing New Jersey’s marine waters must register.

how much is a fishing license in nj

You can read the state rules and regulations on hunting and fishing here. Fishing is a classic hobby that has been a part of American culture for centuries, in part because it can serve many roles depending on how you enjoy experiencing it. Some prefer to go out alone, fishing rod in hand, and relax, while others enjoy the sporting elements of the hobby. New Jersey has waters that serve both parties perfectly, making it a great spot to fall in love with fishing.

Commercial Snapping Turtles and Frog Permits

Whether it’s freshwater or saltwater fishing you prefer, New Jersey has much to offer. Marlu Lake in Thompson Park in Lincroft is home to freshwater largemouth bass, carp, sunfish and crappies. The water of Delaware River is the teeming with smallmouth bass. Port Monmouth, Raritan Bay is the place to be for big stripers! But before casting that lure, a New Jersey fishing license is required.

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