NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry Program
Registration Is Free
The New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program is an essential tool that helps fishermen, policymakers, and stakeholders work together to account for the contributions and impacts of saltwater anglers on ocean ecosystems and coastal economies. It is part of the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), aiming to provide accurate information to determine fish stock health.
Key Takeaways:
- The registry is NOT a License: New Jersey does not have a saltwater license, but all Marine Fisheries Rules and Regulations must be followed.
- Goal of MRIP: To ensure the long-term sustainability of recreational fishing.
- Website for More Information: www.CountMyFish.noaa.gov.
Background
In 2006, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) was charged with creating a universal registry of all current saltwater anglers in the United States. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection established the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program (NJSRRP) to exempt saltwater recreational anglers fishing in New Jersey’s marine and tidal waters from the federal registry and the $15.00 federal registration fee imposed in 2011.
Key Takeaways:
- Exemption from Federal Registration: Registration with NJ will exempt you from having to register with the National Saltwater Angler Registry.
- Effective Date: The NJSRRP was implemented on May 4, 2011.
Who Needs To Register?
Understanding who needs to register is crucial for compliance. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Individual Saltwater Anglers
Must Register If:
- Recreational fishing with a hand line or rod and line, spearfishing, or fishing by hand.
- Fishing in the marine and fresh tidal waters of New Jersey.
- Fishing in marine waters outside New Jersey but landing the catch in New Jersey.
Exempt If:
- Under the age of 16.
- Solely fishing on for-hire vessels registered with the New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program.
For-Hire Vessel Owners/Operators
Must Register If:
- Carrying individuals who engage in recreational fishing in New Jersey's marine and fresh tidal waters.
- Carrying individuals who fish in marine waters outside New Jersey but land their catch in New Jersey.
What Do I Need To Provide In Order To Register?
Individual Registration
Required Information: Last four digits of your social security number, name, address, date of birth, and phone number.
Emails: Optional but allows for confirmation of registration.
For-Hire Vessel Owner/Operator Registration
Required Information: Last four digits of your social security number, name, address, date of birth, phone number, and either the United States Coast Guard Documentation Number or the Registration Number and state of the Vessel you are registering.
Non-US Resident Registration
Passport Number and Country of Origin: If you do not have a Social Security Number, you will be considered a non-US resident.
Changing Current Registration Information
Updating, Duplicating, Reviewing, Deleting, or Renewing Registration: All these tasks can be done by clicking on the Access Current Registration link.