Please continue to monitor this Web site for updates on any federal action to impose a moratorium as well as state changes in NJ’s striped bass fishing regulations.

Existing Striped Bass Fishing Regulations

The regulations governing recreational striped bass fishing in New Jersey are set by state legislation. Currently, New Jersey’s regulations allow anglers to harvest one fish from 24 to less than 28 inches and one fish 28 inches or larger. If an angler has a bonus tag issued by DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife an additional fish of 28 inches or larger may be kept. Because these regulations do not comply with federal standards, they are subject to change in order for New Jersey to avert a moratorium and to remain in compliance with the federally mandated Striped Bass Management Plan set by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC).

Upcoming, New Striped Bass Fishing Regulations

On Monday, September 27, 2004, the New Jersey Legislature is scheduled to pass new legislation to bring New Jersey into compliance with the ASMFC management plan and it is expected these new limits will be signed into law by the Governor on that day. The new regulations will allow anglers to harvest one striped bass 24 inches to less than 28 inches and a second striper at 34 inches or greater. In addition to these two fish, anglers in possession of a Striped Bass Bonus Program tag may harvest a striped bass 28 inches or greater. The only means of harvesting a striped bass 28" to less than 34" is through participation in the Striped Bass Bonus Program. Until the time this new legislation is signed into law or until New Jersey receives official notice of a moratorium, anglers fishing for striped bass may continue to keep fish under the current regulations.