Anyone age 16 and older must have a fishing license to fish the fresh waters of New Jersey, whether using a handline, rod and reel, or bow. This requirement applies to all freshwater fishing locations, including privately owned waters. The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife manages all fishing licenses and regulations in the Garden State. Saltwater fishing does not require a license but does require free registration with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program for anglers 16 and older.
Quick Reference: New Jersey Fishing License
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Resident Annual | $22.50 |
| Non-Resident Annual | $34.00 |
| License Required Age | 16 and older |
| Youth Exempt | Under 16 |
| Senior Exempt | 70+ (residents only) |
| License Expiration | December 31 of each year |
| Buy Online | NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife |
Who Needs a New Jersey Fishing License?
Resident Requirements
All New Jersey residents between the ages of 16 and 69 must have a valid fishing license to fish in the state’s fresh waters. To qualify as a resident, a person must have an established residence in New Jersey for at least the previous six months before purchasing a resident fishing license. Residents age 70 and over do not require a fishing license or trout stamp. A driver license or other acceptable proof of age containing date of birth and physical description will serve as the actual fishing license for senior residents.
Non-Resident Requirements
Non-residents age 16 and older must have a valid fishing license to fish New Jersey’s fresh waters. Non-residents have several options including annual licenses and short-term vacation licenses. All non-resident licenses are valid from the date of purchase through December 31 of each year.
Saltwater Fishing Requirements
No saltwater fishing license is required in New Jersey. However, all saltwater anglers age 16 and older, including senior citizens, are required to register for free with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program. Registration can only be completed online at the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry website. Certain activities such as harvesting shellfish and using crab pots require specific licenses or permits.
New Jersey Fishing License Types and Prices
Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Fishing License (Ages 16-64) | $22.50 | Date of purchase to December 31 |
| Senior Resident Fishing License (Ages 65-69) | $12.50 | Date of purchase to December 31 |
| Resident Trout Stamp (Ages 16-69) | $10.50 | Date of purchase to December 31 |
| All Around Sportsman License | $72.25 | Date of purchase to December 31 |
| Fishing Buddy License (per person) | $11.75 | Date of purchase to December 31 |
The All Around Sportsman License includes hunting with shotgun, bow and arrow, and freshwater fishing privileges. The Fishing Buddy License saves both anglers nearly 50% off the regular fishing license cost. Buddy pairs may consist of a new angler purchasing together with a returning angler, or two new anglers purchasing together.
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Resident Fishing License (Ages 16+) | $34.00 | Date of purchase to December 31 |
| Non-Resident Trout Stamp (Ages 16+) | $20.00 | Date of purchase to December 31 |
| 7-Day Vacation License | $19.50 | 7 consecutive days |
| 2-Day License | $9.00 | 2 consecutive days |
Additional Permits
| Permit Type | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boat Ramp Permit | $15.00 | For select Wildlife Management Area boat ramps |
| Fish Stocking Permit | $2.00 | Available through Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries |
| Scientific Collecting Permit | $22.00 | For scientific purposes |
| Water Lowering Permit | $2.00 | Available through Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries |
| Commercial Harvest Permits | $2.00 | Various types available |
The Boat Ramp Permit is required for people wishing to utilize select Wildlife Management Area boat ramps who do not have a current fishing or hunting license. Residents 70 years and older are not required to obtain this permit.
Who Is Exempt from Needing a Fishing License?
Age Exemptions
Children under 16 years of age do not need a fishing license to fish in New Jersey’s fresh waters. Resident anglers age 70 and over do not require a fishing license or trout stamp. A driver license or other acceptable proof of age containing date of birth and physical description will serve as the actual fishing license for these senior residents. These exemptions apply only to freshwater fishing, as saltwater anglers of all ages 16 and older must still register with the Saltwater Recreational Registry Program.
Farm Exemptions
Farmers and immediate family members who live on the farm do not need a license to fish on their own farm property. However, they must still obey all fishing regulations established by the state.
Military Exemptions
Active duty military personnel, regardless of their current residency status, are entitled to purchase a resident New Jersey fishing license. Active duty military identification must be shown to the license agent as proof of entitlement.
New Jersey National Guard personnel in good standing are entitled to free hunting and fishing licenses, permits and stamps. Eligible National Guard members should contact the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at 609-530-6866 or visit the DMAVA website for more information.
Veterans with proof from the VA of a service-connected disability of any degree, proof of honorable discharge such as a DD 214 or similar document, and a New Jersey driver license or other proof of residency are eligible for free resident hunting and fishing licenses. Eligible veterans must initially be certified by New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife staff.
Disability Exemptions
Residents afflicted with total blindness may obtain a free fishing license. Those who qualify for this exemption should call 609-292-2965 for an application to receive their free license.
Special Permits and Endorsements
Trout Stamp Requirement
A valid fishing license and trout stamp are required to fish for or possess trout and salmon for all anglers 16 and over, and residents under the age of 70. The trout stamp is required whether or not you keep the trout you catch. No trout stamp is required for residents age 70 years and over.
Resident trout stamps cost $10.50 for anglers ages 16-69. Non-resident trout stamps cost $20.00 for anglers ages 16 and up. Both types of trout stamps are valid from the date of purchase through December 31 of each year.
Saltwater Fishing Licenses and Permits
While general saltwater fishing does not require a license, specific activities do require permits. Harvesting shellfish requires a shellfish license, and using crab pots requires appropriate permits. Information about these specific licenses and permits is available on the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife marine recreational licenses page.
Circle hooks are required when fishing for striped bass with bait in marine waters. Party and charter boats can apply for the Striped Bass Bonus Program, with log sheets and applications available on the New Jersey Fish and Wildlife website.
How to Buy Your New Jersey Fishing License
Online Purchase
Fishing licenses can be purchased online through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife online licensing system. When using the online system, you can buy and print your license for immediate use. All purchasers are required to complete the New Jersey Child Support Certification process during the purchase transaction.
In-Person Purchase
Licenses are available from license agents throughout New Jersey. The Division of Fish and Wildlife has a licensed agent locator tool on their website to help you find an agent near your location. When purchasing in person, you must still complete the Child Support Certification process.
Saltwater Registration
Registration for the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program can only be completed online. Visit the saltwater registry website to complete your free registration before fishing in marine waters.
License Validity and Expiration
All fishing licenses and trout stamps are valid from the date of purchase through December 31 of each year. This applies to both resident and non-resident annual licenses. The only exceptions are the short-term non-resident vacation licenses: the 2-day license is valid for 2 consecutive days from the date of purchase, and the 7-day vacation license is valid for 7 consecutive days from the date of purchase.
Your fishing license must be visibly displayed on your outer clothing while fishing. If you lose your license, you can reprint it for free online through the licensing system, or you can order durable stock duplicates for $2 per item.
For license assistance, contact the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife at NJDFWLicenses@dep.nj.gov or call 908-637-4125 extension 0.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a fishing license in NJ?
A resident fishing license costs $22.50 for ages 16-64, and $12.50 for senior residents ages 65-69. Non-resident fishing licenses cost $34.00 for ages 16 and older. Short-term options for non-residents include a 2-day license for $9.00 and a 7-day vacation license for $19.50. All licenses are valid from the date of purchase through December 31 of each year.
Can I fish in NJ without a license?
You can fish without a license if you are under 16 years old, or if you are a New Jersey resident age 70 or older. Farmers and their immediate family members can also fish on their own farm property without a license. Active duty military, National Guard members in good standing, veterans with service-connected disabilities, and residents with total blindness may qualify for free licenses. All other anglers age 16 and older must have a valid fishing license.
Is a NJ saltwater fishing license free?
New Jersey does not require a saltwater fishing license for general recreational fishing in marine waters. However, all saltwater anglers age 16 and older must register for free with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program. Registration can only be completed online. Certain activities like harvesting shellfish or using crab pots require specific licenses or permits that may have associated fees.
How do I obtain a NJ fishing license?
You can purchase your New Jersey fishing license online at the Division of Fish and Wildlife website at nj.aspirafocus.com/internetsales, where you can print your license immediately. Licenses are also available from license agents throughout the state. All purchasers must complete the New Jersey Child Support Certification process. Once obtained, your license must be visibly displayed on your outer clothing while fishing.
Do I need a trout stamp to fish in New Jersey?
Yes, a trout stamp is required in addition to your fishing license if you plan to fish for or possess trout and salmon. This requirement applies to all anglers ages 16 and over, except for residents age 70 and older. The trout stamp is required whether or not you keep the trout you catch. Resident trout stamps cost $10.50 and non-resident trout stamps cost $20.00, both valid from the date of purchase through December 31.
For the most current information and to purchase your license, visit the official New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website.