NEW JERSEY – New anglers and those already hooked on fishing are encouraged to visit their favorite waterway this Saturday, October 17 for a day of free fishing.
Anglers are required to maintain a 6-foot distance from one another and are encouraged to wear face masks or coverings to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The free fishing day in October allows the public to take advantage of the fall trout stocking. The first free fishing day was held on June 6.
Anglers are welcome to fish in New Jersey’s public waterways on October 17 without a license or trout stamp, but all other regulations, including size and daily catch limits will remain in effect.
“New Jersey has some of the best freshwater fishing available, and there are many advantages to participating in this event,” Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe said. “Fishing provides a great way to get outdoors and spend time with family, as well as an excellent opportunity to learn about conservation and how to be a good steward of our natural resources.”
Free Fishing Days provide an opportunity for beginners to try fishing for the first time. Experienced anglers with a fishing license may want to consider taking with them a friend or family member who has never been fishing, to interest them in a healthy and fun activity.
“Freshwater fishing in New Jersey has never been better, with more kinds of fish and more places for people to catch them than ever before,” said Division of Fish and Wildlife Director Dave Golden. “Cold, clear streams support a top-rate trout fishery, and our warm-water fishing for species such as northern pike, channel catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass and pickerel, as well as numerous pan fish species, is outstanding.”
After the Free Fishing Day, anglers may introduce friends or family members to fishing by getting a Fishing Buddy License. The license is available at reduced cost for existing anglers and beginners, or two new anglers. Learn more at njfishandwildlife.com/fishbuddy.htm.
Anglers are urged to respect private landowners who allow fishing on their properties by obeying boundary signs and not littering. Fishing regulations may be found in the New Jersey Freshwater Fishing Digest.
For more information about Free Fishing Days, click here.
