New Jersey License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in New Jersey?
A New Jersey resident annual fishing license costs $22.50. Non-residents pay $34.00 for the same annual license.
New Jersey doesn't sell a paid saltwater fishing license at all — anglers 16 and older instead sign up for the free New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program each year, which costs nothing but is mandatory before fishing marine waters. (NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection)
New Jersey Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $22.50 | $34.00 | Resident annual |
| Vacation License | N/A | N/A | Short-term option |
| Non-Res 7-Day Vacation | N/A | $19.50 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
The Senior Discount Has Two Steps, Not One
New Jersey residents 65-69 pay a reduced $12.50 rate, and residents 70 and older fish completely free — a two-tier structure that goes further than the single senior discount most states offer.
Saltwater Fishing Is Free Statewide
Unlike freshwater, New Jersey doesn't charge for saltwater fishing at all. Anglers just register (free) with the Saltwater Recreational Registry Program (SRRP) instead of buying a license — a notable contrast to neighboring states that charge for both.
New Jersey Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are New Jersey's default statewide season windows and bag/size limits for the most commonly targeted species. Many individual lakes, rivers, and reservoirs carry their own special regulations that override these defaults — always confirm the rules for your specific water before you fish.
| Species | Season | Min. Size | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trout (combined species) | 2nd Saturday in April opener (April 11, 2026) through mid-March 2027 | 9" min. (most waters) | 6/day (spring); 2/day (June 1 – Dec 31) |
| Bass (Largemouth/Smallmouth) | Jan. 1 – Apr. 14 and Jun. 16 – Dec. 31 (closed spawning window in between) | 12" min. | 5/day |
Where to Buy a New Jersey Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, New Jersey fishing licenses are typically available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods locations statewide, along with independent bait & tackle shops. Call ahead if you need a specific license type (combination, lifetime, or trout stamp) since not every retail counter carries every product.
New Jersey Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a New Jersey fishing license?
A resident annual license costs $22.50. Non-residents pay $34.00 for the freshwater annual license.
Do New Jersey seniors get a discount?
Yes, in two tiers: residents 65-69 pay $12.50, and residents 70+ fish completely free.
Is saltwater fishing free in New Jersey?
Yes. Register for free with the Saltwater Recreational Registry Program (SRRP) instead of buying a license.
Do I need a trout stamp in New Jersey?
Yes, if fishing for trout: $10.50 for residents, $20 for non-residents, in addition to the base license.
Where can I buy a New Jersey fishing license?
Through the NJ Fish and Wildlife licensing system, online or at authorized agents.