Many anglers who have been fishing in New Jersey the past few years know that the fishing's never been better. Over the past decade many new species have been established in state waters, providing for angling action previously found only out-of-state.

 

Walleye, northen pike, muskies and hybrid striped bass top the list of recent additions of big, hard-fighting fish. Recently created reservoirs provide some of the best angling potential in the northeast.

 

Incredible runs of anadromous fish like American shad and striped bass provide hot angling along the entire stretch of the Delaware River. At no time in the history of our state has there been more or better fishing opportunities for both coldwater and warmwater fish.

 

For those that have never fished, New Jersey's annual Free Fishing Days (when licensing requirements are suspended each year in early June) give you the chance to find out what you have been missing without having to buy a license. For anyone who used to fish but has given it up, Free Fishing Days provide an excellent opportunity to re-experience the joy, excitement and relaxation that fishing can provide. These two days also provide an opportunity for those from neighboring states to enjoy a free sample of great fishing in New Jersey.

 

For those looking to get started, the Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center offers free beginner courses for both spin and fly anglers. Looking to improve your skills? There are also courses for intermediate anglers.

 

Join the growing number of people discovering the satisfaction of fishing in New Jersey - where the fishing's never been better!

 

For more information visit the NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife