New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife

February 20, 2002

According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Fish and Wildlife, a new state record American lobster was taken off the Double East Wreck on September 8. Jeff Scudder of Tuckerton caught an 8 pound, 2 ounce lobster that weighed 14 ounces more than the previous record taken from the Garden State North Reef in 1996.

Scudder was diving from his boat when he grabbed the lobster, which had a 6-inch carapace (the protective upper shell covering) and an 11-inch girth. Division Marine Fisheries Research Scientist Bruce Freeman verified the catch.

The American lobster is found in cool waters from Canada to North Carolina. Territorial and solitary in nature, they live on the ocean floor and prefer rocky crevices.

New Jersey's many artificial reefs provide the perfect habitat for this species. The American lobster reaches an average length of about 10 inches and a weight of 2-5 pounds.

The Record Fish Program honors the largest species of fish (as well as blue crab and American lobster) caught in the state. It revolves around a specific list of eligible freshwater and saltwater species, and is based on weight alone (there are no line classes). Scale certification documentation and a weighmaster's signature are necessary. Other rules apply. For more information or to request an application, call 609-633-7768. Visit the Division's website at www.njfishandwildlife.com for a complete list of state records.