| DEP SPONSORS
FREE FISHING DAYS
(05/70) TRENTON -- Department of Environmental Protection
(DEP) Commissioner Bradley M. Campbell today announced that this
year's Free Fishing Days in New Jersey will be celebrated on Saturday
and Sunday, June 11 and 12. Free Fishing Days offer all fishing
enthusiasts the opportunity to fish in any of New Jersey's public
waters without a license or trout stamp.
"Fishing is one of the most popular ways to enjoy New Jersey's
coasts, rivers, and waterways," said Commissioner Campbell.
"Free Fishing Days are a great way to introduce newcomers
to this wonderful pastime."
DEP's Free Fishing Days are open to everyone to allow both locals
and visitors to enjoy freshwater fishing in New Jersey and to
encourage a continued interest in the sport. While no license
is required, all other regulations, including size and daily catch
limits, remain in effect. Anglers should also note that any smallmouth
or largemouth bass caught during this time (except in the Delaware
River) must be released.
"Freshwater fishing in New Jersey has never been better,"
said Martin McHugh, Director of DEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife.
"There are more kinds of fish and more places for people
to catch them than ever before. I encourage everyone to take advantage
of this excellent opportunity to "get hooked" on a great
sport!"
Opportunities for freshwater fishing in New Jersey have significantly
improved in recent years and the state's waterways currently boast
more kinds of fish and more places to catch them. Hackettstown
and Pequest State Fish Hatcheries allow anglers to fish for stocked
muskellunge, northern pike, walleye, striped bass hybrids, channel
catfish and lake trout in New Jersey's larger lakes as well as
brook, brown and rainbow trout released into the state's smaller
streams and waterways.
Wild populations of fish (not hatchery raised) can also be found
throughout the state, though anglers should pay close attention
to regulations affecting them as these conservation measures are
frequently more strict than for stocked fish.
The Pequest Trout Hatchery sponsors free programs throughout
the year, including fishing classes during Free Fishing Days.
Residents are encouraged to register early for the classes by
calling (908) 637-4125. Pequest's Natural Resource Education Center
features wildlife exhibits, a butterfly garden, picnic areas and
hiking trails. There also is a handicapped-accessible fishing
site along the Pequest River.
Free Fishing Days are held in conjunction with National Boating
and Fishing Week.
For more information on fishing in New Jersey including Free
Fishing Days, places to fish, fishing classes, regulations, feature
articles and species fact sheets, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com.
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