NJ Flounder Regulations Approved; Sea Bass Season Delayed

The 2011 summer flounder regulations approved last Thursday by the New Jersey Marine Fisheries Commission increased the bag limit by two fish and lengthened the season to 142 days of fishing. Anglers can now keep eight fish at 18 inches and fish from May 7 to Sept. 25. Last year's regs were six fish at 18 inches with a season that started later, May 29, and ended sooner, Sept. 6.

At the same meeting that approved the fluke rules, it was decided that New Jersey's sea bass season will start start June 4, instead of the expected May 22. The Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP) has been an integral part of New Jersey's striped bass management since 1990. It is a popular program with the fishing community and provides valuable data for assessing stock status and fishing trends.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife (Division) initiated the program in 1990 to allow the harvest of an additional striped bass for New Jersey recreational anglers. Although the program has been modified throughout the years, the main goal of the SBBP is to allow anglers to participate in the management process while enjoying their favorite recreational pastime.

 Karl Hess, Jersey Shore Homes

Saltwater Fishing Registration Required

Under federal law, most New Jersey saltwater recreational anglers are required to register with the National Saltwater Angler Registry, administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), before they go fishing in 2011. The Saltwater Angler Registry is part of an improved data program to help protect the long-term sustainability of recreational fishing.

A $15 fee for the federal registry became effective on January 1, 2011. Anglers who registered in 2010 should check the expiration date on their registration cards - registration is valid for one year from date of issue.

Anyone age 16 and older must have a valid license (there are some exceptions) to fish the fresh waters of New Jersey with handline, rod and line, or longbow and arrow. This includes privately owned lakes and other waters. New Jersey does not require a general saltwater fishing license but there are a limited number of saltwater licenses and permits required.

Things are still up in the air regarding many of the regulations for saltwater fishing in 2011. For the first time, anglers will have to register with the state in order to fish. It still is not known when the state will be ready to start taking registrations.

Fishing licenses may be obtained from license agents or online. Duplicate licenses for the current year are also available. For more information contact the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife.

When you purchase a fishing license, you're helping to protect, preserve and enhance the sport of fishing for today and for generations to come. License fees help pay for fishery and hatchery management, habitat development and protection, endangered species programs, fishing and conservation education, lake maps and other publications, and many other valuable programs.

Karl Hess, Jersey Shore Realtor