New Jersey Regulations
Hunting and fishing regulations, seasons, species information, and public access resources for the state of New Jersey.
Overview
New Jersey offers diverse outdoor opportunities across forests, marshlands, farmland, and coastal waters.
Below are quick links to seasons, species, licensing, and access information.
Season Information
- Whitetail deer (archery, muzzleloader, firearm — zone-based)
- Turkey seasons (spring & fall)
- Small game (squirrel, rabbit, pheasant, quail)
- Waterfowl (duck, goose — Atlantic Flyway)
- Black bear (season varies by year)
- Fishing seasons (striped bass, trout, fluke, bluefish)
Licensing
New Jersey requires appropriate licenses for hunting and fishing activities.
- Hunting license (resident & non-resident)
- Freshwater & saltwater fishing licenses
- Deer & turkey permits
- Waterfowl stamps (state & federal)
- Saltwater Registry (free but required)
- Harvest reporting (NJ Electronic Check-in)
Key Species
- Whitetail Deer
- Eastern Turkey
- Pheasant & Quail
- Bass, Trout, Catfish
- Striped Bass (coastal)
- Fluke, Bluefish, Black Sea Bass
Public Land & Access
New Jersey offers public land access through WMAs, state forests, and extensive coastal waters.
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
- State forests & parks
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
- Coastal access & boat ramps
- Special permits & controlled hunts