New Jersey Fishing License Guide (2026)

New Jersey requires a fishing license for anyone 16-69 for freshwater, and a free saltwater registry for saltwater fishing. NJ offers excellent surf fishing on the Jersey Shore, trout in the Musconetcong River, and trophy bass in Round Valley Reservoir.

16+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$22.50
Resident/yr
$34.50
Non-Res/yr

💰 License Costs (2026)

Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Resident Freshwater
$22.50

Non-Resident Licenses

License Type Price
Annual Non-Resident Freshwater
$34.50
7-Day Non-Resident
$19.50

Senior & Special Licenses

License Type Price
Senior (65-69)
$12.50
Senior (70+)
FREE for NJ residents 70+
$0

Additional Stamps & Permits

Stamp Price Required?
Trout Stamp
Required for trout fishing during stocked season
$10.50 Required
Saltwater Registry
Free but mandatory registration for saltwater fishing
Free Required
See the complete New Jersey cost breakdown →

📍 Where to Buy

🌐

NJ DFW Online Licensing ↗

Instant digital license
📞

Phone Purchase

📞 (609) 292-2965
🏪

Retail Locations

License agents, Walmart, sporting goods stores
Explore all New Jersey purchase options →

📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days

Free Fishing Days 2026

Jun
6
Free Freshwater Fishing Day
Freshwater only
Oct
17
Fall Free Fishing Day
Freshwater only

License Validity

New Jersey licenses expire on December 31 each year.

Full New Jersey free fishing days schedule →

👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions

👶

Under 16 Exemption

Children under 16 do not need a fishing license.

👴

FREE License for Seniors (70+)

New Jersey residents 70 and older can fish for free.

🎖️

Military/Veterans

Active military and disabled veterans get free fishing license.

Full New Jersey exemptions guide →

⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License

$100–$ 3000
Fine Range
citation
Offense Type

Civil penalty with fines $100-$3,000.

Learn more about New Jersey fishing penalties →

🔧 How to Get Your License

  1. 1

    Visit the Official Portal

    Go to NJ DFW Online Licensing ↗

  2. 2

    Select Your License Type

    Choose between resident/non-resident, duration, and water type based on your needs.

  3. 3

    Complete Payment & Download

    Pay online and receive your digital license instantly. You may also print a physical copy.