TROUT FISHING REGULATIONS Trout Season and Daily Creel Limit the Trout Season for 2001 Begins at 12:01 A.M., January 1, and Extends to Midnight, March 18, 2001

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Hackettstown Hatchery’s New Aquaculture Facility see page 7.

A SUMMARY OF RULES AND MANAGEMENT INFORMATION NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION - DIVISION OF FISH & WILDLIFE VOL. 14 NO. 2 January 2001

Conserve Wildlife Visit our website at: License Plates Support Endangered and www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw Nongame Species See page 26 NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife Telephone Directory AA MessageMessage fromfrom thethe Internet Address www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw New Jersey Commercial Preserves & Semi-Wild Preserves 609-984-6211 Deer & Turkey Permit Hotline 609-292-9192 DirectorDirector DEP ACTION LINE - 24 HOURS 609-292-7172 Fish & Wildlife Digest 877-WARNDEP Exotic & Nongame Captivity Permits 609-292-9591 Published by the NJ Fish and Wildlife Falconry Permit Information 908-735-8793 P.O. Box 400, Trenton, NJ 08625-0400 General Information 609-292-2965 www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw Hunter Education 877-2HUNTNJ Hunting, Fishing, & Duplicate Licenses 609-292-2965 State of New Jersey Operation Game Thief 800-222-0456 Christine Todd Whitman, Governor Outstanding Deer Program 609-292-9450 Department of Environmental Protection Pheasant & Quail Stocking Information 609-984-0547 Robert C. Shinn, Jr., Commissioner Rifle Permit Information 609-984-1400 Trout Stocking Hotline 609-633-6765 Division of Fish and Wildlife Wildlife Conservation Corps Information 609-633-3616 Robert McDowell, Director Wildlife Damage Control 908-735-8793 David Chanda, Assistant Director Wildlife Management Area Information 609-984-0547 Martin McHugh, Assistant Director Trenton Office Rob Winkel, Chief, Law Enforcement 501 E. State St., Station Plaza 5, 3rd Floor, PO Box 400, Jim Sciascia, Chief, Wildlife Education Bob Soldwedel, Chief, Freshwater Fisheries Trenton, NJ 08625-0400 Cindy Kuenstner, Editor Endangered and Nongame Species 609-292-9400 by Bob McDowell Freshwater Fisheries 609-292-1599 The Division of Fish and Wildlife is a professional, Land Management 609-984-0547 environmental organization dedicated to the protection, Law Enforcement 609-292-9430 Freshwater fishing has never been better in New Jersey. management and wise use of the state’s fish and Marine Fisheries 609-292-2083 That’s a pretty bold statement but it is supported by facts. wildlife resources. Wildlife Education 609-292-9450 Fact - New Jersey anglers have caught 15 state record Wildlife Management 609-292-6685 The Digest is available at license agents and Division fish in the last ten years. Many of those state records are offices. Articles and information may be reprinted with Northern Region Office permission. Subscriptions are not available. 26 Route 173 W., Hampton, NJ 08827 impressive fish for any state in the country. Consider the 42 Law Enforcement (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, lb. 13 oz. muskellunge caught in 1997 or the 13 lb. 9 oz. Partial Funding for the Digest is provided by the Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and walleye caught in 1993 or the 16 lb. 4 oz. hybrid striped Federal Aid in Sportfish Restoration Program. Warren Counties) 908-735-8240 bass caught in 1999. If state record fish are a barometer of New Jersey Fish & Wildlife Councils Endangered and Nongame Species 908-735-8975 fishery conditions and fishing opportunity, freshwater fish- Hunter Education 877-2HUNTNJ Fish and Game Council Wildlife Damage Control 908-735-8793 ermen have many good reasons to be proud and excited John W. Bradway, Sr., Chair, Salem Wildlife Management 908-735-7040 about fishing in New Jersey. See page 41 for a complete Richard Culp, Oak Ridge W. Scott Ellis, Trenton Land Management 973-383-0918 listing of state record freshwater fish. Fred Hough, Augusta Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center Fact - Fisheries for five of those state record fish species George Howard, Pittstown 605 Pequest Rd., Oxford, NJ 07863 908-637-4125 did not exist in New Jersey fifteen years ago. The Division Jane Morton Galetto, Millville Freshwater Fisheries Lab of Fish and Wildlife has recently established viable New Elwood Knight, Mount Laurel PO Box 394, Lebanon, NJ 08833 908-236-2118 Bill Martin, Flemington Jersey fisheries for muskellunge, walleyes, hybrid striped Madelyn Picone, Cedar Knolls Central Region Office bass, lake trout, and northern pike. At no time in New Jack Shrier, Mendham 386 Clarksburg-Robbinsville Rd., Robbinsville, NJ 08691 Jersey’s history has there been a greater variety of game Robert Von Suskil, Vineland Law Enforcement (Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, fish available to New Jersey anglers. Monmouth, and Ocean Counties) 609-259-2120 Endangered and Nongame Species Council Hunter Education 877-2HUNTNJ Fact - The division annually places over one million fish Advisory Committee Land Management 609-259-2132 in New Jersey’s waterways. The state of the art Pequest Jane Mortin Galletto, Chair, Millville Wildlife Damage Control 609-259-7955 Trout Hatchery each year produces over 600,000 trout Dr. James Applegate, Cranbury Dr. Joanna Burger, Somerset Southern Region Office between 10 and 21 inches which are stocked in the spring, Mike Catania, Chester 220 Blue Anchor Rd., Sicklerville, NJ 08081 fall and beginning in 2000, in the winter. The number, size Dr. Emile DeVito, Far Hills Information 856-629-0090 and the health of the trout stocked today have never been Rich Kane, Bernardsville Law Enforcement (Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Janet Larson, Toms River Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem Counties) 856-629-0555 better. In addition to the trout raised at Pequest, the division Rick Lathrop, Bound Brook Hunter Education 877-2HUNTNJ has developed and expanded warmwater and coolwater fish Dr. Dale Schweitzer, Port Norris Land Management 856-629-5006 production at the Hackettstown Hatchery which now James Shissias, Titusville Clay Sutton, Cape May Court House Freshwater Fisheries 856-629-4950 annually raises and stocks over 500,000 bass, bluegill, cat- Wildlife Damage Control 856-629-7224 fish, crappie, lake trout, muskellunge, pike and walleye. Marine Fisheries Council Wildlife Education 856-629-7214 Fact - The number of lakes, ponds and streams made Gilbert Ewing, Jr., Chair, Cape May Nacote Creek Research Station accessible to the public through open space acquisition and Dr. Robert B. Abel, Shrewsbury PO Box 418, Port Republic, NJ 08241 William Barnish, Brigantine Marine Law Enforcement 609-748-2050 easements has never been greater. There are over 400 lakes Erling Berg, Cape May Marine Fisheries 609-748-2020 and ponds and hundreds of miles of rivers and streams open David Botwinick, Pennington Shellfisheries 609-748-2040 John Cole, Pt. Pleasant Beach Marine Education 609-748-2031 continued on page 3 Gary Dickerson, Brick Dr. Patrick Donnelly, Brielle Wildlife Management 609-748-2063 Edward Goldman, Absecon Bivalve Shellfish Office Motor Boat Regulations For information write: Richard Malinowski, Salem PO Box 432, Port Norris, NJ 08349 856-785-0730 Frances Puskas, Barnegat Light Division of Motor Vehicles PO Box 403, Trenton, NJ 08625-0403 Atlantic Coast Shellfish Council or contact your local DMV office for a boat “NJ” William Barnish, Chair, Brigantine number Hull numbers are issued by State Police Everett Giberson, Manahawkin after their inspection. Walter Hughes, Atlantic Highlands Where to Daniel L. Loper, Erma State Police Troop “F” Stephen Potter, New Gretna Marine Law Enforcement Stations Write Us Bivalve 609-785-1330 Delaware Bay Shellfish Council North Wildwood 609-522-0393 Richard Malinowski, Chair, Salem New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife Atlantic City 609-441-3586 Scott Bailey, Millville Burlington 609-387-1221 Stephen Fleetwood, Port Norris P.O. Box 400 Ocean 609-296-5807 Nancy Sittineri, Cape May Court House Trenton, NJ 08625-0400 Point Pleasant 732-899-5050 Monmouth Cty. Det. 732-842-5171 Internet: www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw Lake Hopatcong 973-663-3400 Newark Bay 973-578-8173

2 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST to the public for fishing. Under the governor’s million acre acquisition initiative, new public land with water access is Mission continuously being recommended by the division and pur- To protect and manage the state’s fish and wildlife to maximize their long-term biological, recre- chased by Green Acres. Also, the number of public boat ational and economic values for all New Jerseyans. launches has never been greater. The Division has pur- Goals chased private ramps, built ramps on public land and is 1. To maintain New Jersey’s rich variety of fish and wildlife species at stable, healthy levels and actively working with municipalities to develop and operate boat ramps throughout the state. to protect and enhance the many habitats on which they depend. The progressive management of our state’s freshwater 2. To educate New Jerseyans on the values and needs of our fish and wildlife and to foster a posi- fisheries and the hard work of providing public access to tive human/wildlife co-existence. the fisheries resource gives New Jersey anglers unprece- 3. To maximize the recreational and commercial uses of New Jersey’s fish and wildlife for both dented fishing opportunities today. The new facilities at the present and future generations. Hackettstown Hatchery (pictured on the cover of this issue) promise to make fishing even better in New Jersey in the near future. Warmwater and coolwater fish that were previ- License Information & fees ously raised in small indoor tanks and outside ponds are (Licenses are valid from purchase to Dec. 31 of each year) now raised in large modern tanks inside a newly construct- Resident Fishing...... 22.50 ed state-of-the-art aquaculture building. The high-tech building has a complex system of pumps, filters, heat Sr. Resident Fishing (Ages 65-69 yrs.) ...... 12.50 exchangers and a water temperature control system. (See Resident Trout Stamp...... 10.50 the feature article about the new hatchery facility in this Non-resident Fishing...... 34.00 issue.) Non-resident Trout Stamp...... 20.00 The new aquaculture building at Hackettstown allows the Non-resident 2 -Day Fishing...... 9.00 division to raise fish that are healthier and larger in the Non-resident or Vacation Fishing (7-day)...... 19.50 same amount of time it took using the old facilities. For example, tigermuskies raised at Hackettstown in 1999 were All-Around Sportsman (includes resident fishing, 8 inches when stocked. The tigers raised in the new build- firearm hunting and bow/arrow hunting licenses)72.25 ing this year were 37% percent larger (11 inches) when they Canadian residents please note funds are in U.S. dollars. were stocked. Stocking larger fish means more fish in the Permits for Freshwater Fisheries future for Garden State anglers because the size at stocking Water Lowering is a key factor in how many fish will survive and mature Fish Stocking into adults. Baitfish Collecting $2.00 Lebanon Fisheries 908/236-2118 For a small state we are truly fortunate to have the aquat- Triploid Grass Carp Lab ic diversity and abundance of fishable water bodies that we Fish Tagging have in New Jersey. Also, for a small state our fishery is Turtle & Frog Collecting $2.00 Trenton Office 609/292-1599 incredibly diverse and improving in quality each year. Take Eel Weirs some time with a friend or a family member and explore the Scientific Collecting $22.00 Trenton Office 609/292-1599 fishing possibilities New Jersey has to offer. I am confident you will be pleased with what you find. This DIGEST is available in enlarged format for the visually impaired. Write to: New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife, Digest Editor ¥ PO Box 400 ¥ Trenton, NJ 08625-0400

Table of Contents

Art and Writing Contest...... 24 Boundary Waters ...... 8,17 Regulations Articles and Features Changes, Highlights in the 2001 Freshwater ¥ Baitfish ...... 9,10,15 ¥ New Aquaculture Building Up and Running ...... 7 Fishing Regulations...... 6 ¥ Exceptions to Statewide Regulations...... 18 ¥ Winter Trout Stocked Lake Programs ...... 20 Fishing Access Sites for People with ¥ General ...... 8 • New Jersey’s Wild Brookies- Are They the Disabilities ...... 42 ¥ Reservoirs, Fishing by Permit Only ...... 19 Genuine Article? ...... 28 Freshwater Fish Illustrations ...... 25 ¥ Trout ...... 10,12,13,17 ¥ Improvements to our Channel Catfish Hatchery Reports ¥ Warmwater/Coolwater ...... 14,15,17 Stocking Program ...... 32 Hackettstown Hatchery ...... 29 ¥ Wildlife Management Areas ...... 40 ¥ Round Valley Reservoir Trout Study...... 32 Pequest Trout Hatchery ...... 33 Skillful Angler Application ...... 45 ¥ New Acquisitions Provide More Access Health Advisory ...... 30 Sportfish Restoration Program ...... 11 For Anglers ...... 34 Hook a Winner Program ...... 32 Record Fish of New Jersey ...... 41 ¥ Species Spotlight: The Gizzard Shad ...... 35 Hotline, Fishing ...... 26 Waterfowl Stamp & Print...... 27 ¥ Sea Run Brown Trout ...... 39 License Fees...... 3,8 Winter Trout Stocked Lakes ...... 20 ¥ Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament ...... 39 License Line, Freshwater Boundary ...... 16 ¥ Skillful Angler Awards Program ...... 44 Permits, Fishing ...... 3,19

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 3 Highlights of the Changes in 2001 Freshwater Fishing Regulations By Robert Soldwedel, Chief, Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries

Hopefully you already know about, and catch get back into the lake with as little has to wonder how we can improve the sit- are taking advantage of our new winter harm as possible. These “openings” have uation. Is it something we can fix with new trout stocking program. Although most been our trend in recent years. Although we regulations or stocking programs or is it anglers look to April for the opening day of don’t want to eliminate “Opening Day,” something beyond our control like the econ- trout season, the actual opening is January because it creates anticipation and gives omy, lack of spare time, etc? Remember, 1. You’ve got almost three months of trout everyone a date to “point to”. We do want these are your programs as much as they fishing before we close the lakes and to provide maximum angling opportunities. are ours. We can’t satisfy everybody every streams down for re-stocking beginning We are trying to rebuild Round Valley time, but the majority doesn’t always have March 19, 2001. The traditionally recog- Reservoir’s trout population from the bot- to rule in every case. We love feedback; it nized “Opening Day” of trout season will tom up and have had a great assist from the helps us to do a better job for you. be April 7th and — please pay attention Round Valley Trout Association. (Fella’s, we here — April 7th is the first Saturday in really appreciate your support; the moral April, not the second. If you wait for the support at public meetings in particular.) usual second Saturday opener, you’ll be a One of the ways we’ll rebuild the trout week late and a couple of limits of trout population is by encouraging a greater short. harvest of lake trout to relieve the pressure If you live in Hunterdon County, don’t on the reservoir’s herring population. have a heart attack, we’re still going to be The result should be better growth from the Fishing stocking Everittstown Brook and remaining trout population and Round Frenchtown Brook with the same number Valley Trout Association’s Kamloops rain- of trout at the same locations, except now bows. HOTLINES we’re stocking them under the name of The size limits for muskellunge and Spring / Fall / Winter Nishisakawick Creek. That’s the name tiger muskies in Lake Hopatcong and Division Trout Stocking— you’ll find on all the county road maps. Monksville Reservoir will be increased to Over the years, we’ve tried to update all the 36 inches (40 inches in Echo Lake 609-633-6765 names and locations on our stocking lists to Reservoir) with the daily bag limit reduced The computerized message is avoid confusion, while (of course) creating to one at all three locations. This is in available 24 hours per day, 7 some temporary confusion in the process. response to anglers’ requests, and we’re days a week seasonally. Every waterbody that was stocked with glad to oblige - especially at Echo Lake - Shad Run—610-954-0577 or trout last year will be stocked again this which we use as a “broodstock” lake for year. We’ve been doing a lot better lately in our hatchery program. 610-954-0578 avoiding stream closures. By “we” I mean Size limits for striped bass have been In April, the Delaware River you and I as anglers and not “we” as a revised to comply with the Atlantic States Shad Fishermen’s Association government agency, because it was the Marine Fisheries Commission’s striped provides a message on the trash and the behavior of individuals that bass plan. You will now be allowed to keep caused us the problem. I’m glad to see that one striped bass greater than or equal to 24” shad run in the Delaware 24 we’ve cleaned up our act. Keep up the good but less than 28”and only one 28 inches or hours per day, 7 days a week. work, and remember, we’re always being greater (previous limit was two over 28 Information on river condi- watched by people just looking for an inches). Compliance with another Atlantic tions and the status of the excuse to shut us down. States Marine Fisheries Commission direc- shad run is offered. Call in late We’re adding two new waters to the tive requires any American eel intended as stocking list this year: Scarlet Oak Pond in bait must be at least six inches in length. evening or early morning to Mahwah, Bergen County and Riverview Take note of Pennsylvania’s Delaware River avoid a busy signal. Beach Pond in Pennsville Township, eight inch maximum size for American eels Salem County. Now I know the traditional used as bait. trout fishermen prefer streams, but the fact The division is always interested to learn is we’ve exhausted the possibilities in that what the average angler thinks about our area. Scarlet Oak Pond could develop into regulation changes. The last survey we con- something special, as it appears to be able ducted (1992) found that 70% of you felt to support trout year ‘round. And there is that the regulations were fine. Fifteen not another trout stocked water within 20 percent thought they were too strict and miles of Riverview Beach Pond, so this 15% thought they were too liberal. That is brings something new to that “neck of the pretty close to a mandate to “stand still”. woods”. Only one word of advice for you I’d prefer to hear from people that are irate folks down that way... “ENJOY. over a change we’ve proposed, since they Anglers up around Pompton Lake will have a passion for the sport, rather than also get some added enjoyment this year as someone who just says, “to heck with it” we leave the lake open for bass and pike and no longer goes fishing. fishing during the pre-season trout stock- With the continual decline in license ing closure. Just make sure any trout you sales, in New Jersey and nationwide, one

4 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST New Aquaculture Building Up and Running By Bob Olsen, Superintendent

The Charles O. Hayford State 2,956,352 fish weighing 18,372 has an improved water supply sys- Fish Hatchery, commonly referred pounds (see summation table on tem. Like the old facility, it consists to as the Hackettstown Hatchery, page 29). This represents a 78% of a recirculation system: water has undergone a facelift over the increase in pounds of fish pro- runs through the tanks, is sent past year. New Jersey Division of duced in just one year! through several filtration units (to Fish and Wildlife has developed a The main objective of this new remove suspended materials and new state-of-the-art intensive fish system is not so much to raise an to reduce ammonia levels), into an culture facility and it is not just increased number of fish, but to ultraviolet sterilizer (to reduce dis- another pretty face. It consists of a raise fingerling fish to a larger size ease agents) and finally aerated 12,500 square foot pre-engineered before being stocked. This increas- before being sent back through the building constructed for one pur- es fingerling survivability in the tanks. This new system has the pose only: to enhance the ability to recirculate nearly warmwater fisheries pro- three times more water than grams throughout New the old system. Two separate Jersey. recirculation loops ensure The Hackettstown every tank in the building can Hatchery is one of the oldest receive two different tempera- hatcheries in the country, tures of heated water. dating back to 1912. For over Some species prefer 70-degree seventy years it water, like northern pike, served as the only state muskellunge and tiger hatchery in New Jersey. In muskies. Other warmwater 1983 our Pequest Trout fish prefer 80 degree water, Hatchery began producing such as hybrid striped bass, all of the brook, brown and channel catfish and bluegill rainbow trout. This new trout wild and ultimately improves the sunfish. Lake trout, the only cold hatchery was a major turning warmwater fishing throughout the water species raised at this hatch- point for New Jersey’s freshwater state. Our new system is designed ery, utilizes straight spring water fisheries, improving the trout fish- with the versatility to comply with (52 degrees), also available to eries while enabling the changing management strategies every tank. All other warmwater Hackettstown Hatchery to dedi- and to handle future fisheries species are raised outdoors in cate its efforts to the culture of requirements. earthen ponds. warmwater fish. The division’s new aquaculture Visitation to the new Over the next seventeen years, facility was funded through Green Hackettstown Hatchery facility is the Hackettstown Hatchery under- Acres bond monies. It consists of not yet available as further renova- went various upgrades to improve ten 5 foot circular tanks, eight 3 tions must be completed before both the intensive (indoor) and foot by 20 foot rectangular tanks, opening to the public. Plans are extensive (outdoor) production of and eight 6 foot by 20 foot rectan- presently underway for the con- warmwater fish. By comparison, in gular tanks all at a depth of 3 feet struction of a visitor’s center at 1986 the hatchery raised 50,860 and constructed of fiberglass. Total Hackettstown. warmwater fish (5,209 pounds) holding capacity is over 27,000 gal- For further information about consisting of eight different species lons of water where we raise the the progress of the Hackettstown of fish, while in 1999 the hatchery seven species of fish cultured Hatchery or details where produced 1,625,250 fish (10,292 intensively. This is more than twice warmwater fish from the pounds) made up of thirteen dif- the volume of water held by the hatchery are stocked, contact the ferent species. This past year, with old system. Division of Fish and Wildlife or the inclusion of the new intensive In addition to this increase in visit our website. system, the hatchery produced rearing volume, the new facility

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 5 2001 SUMMARY OF NEW JERSEY This is not the full law. Consult the Division of Fish and Wildlife for further details. All persons are reminded that the statutes, code and regulations are the legal authorities.

A fishing license must be worn in a conspicuous place on the REPLACEMENT OF LOST LICENSES outer clothing while engaged in fishing, and must be exhibited to Duplicate fishing licenses are issued at all law enforcement law enforcement personnel on request. regional offices, the Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource The minimum age at which a fishing license and trout stamp are Education Center, and the division’s Trenton office. Each licensee is required has been raised to 16. Youths under 16 may fish without a license or trout stamp. All other regulations and creel limits apply provided with a license and a receipt. Be sure to keep the receipt Anyone age 16 and above must have a valid license to fish the separate from your license, so that if the actual license is lost, you fresh waters of New Jersey with a handline, rod and line or long- can take the receipt to any of the above offices and get a replace- bow and arrow. This includes privately owned lakes and other ment for $2.00. Stamps cannot be replaced. waters. Licenses may be obtained from participating county or municipal clerks, or designated agents (sporting goods stores). REVOCATION Resident Licenses Anyone convicted of a second violation against fish and/or It is unlawful for any person to obtain a resident license unless wildlife within a period of 5 years will have their New Jersey licens- they have actually lived in this state for 6 months immediately prior es revoked for 2 years. to the time of application. BOUNDARY WATERS Licenses for servicemen and women A person who is on active duty in the armed services of the Delaware River United States is entitled to fish with a resident license. New Jersey or Pennsylvania fishing licenses are recognized on both shorelines, and anglers may launch a boat from either shore. Trout Stamp On returning, an angler may have in possession any fish which No person between the ages of 16 and 69 shall take, attempt to might be legally taken according to the regulations of the state from take, possess or kill trout without a valid fishing license and trout which the angler launched his/her boat. stamp. Angling may be done with 2 rods, each with one line, or 2 handlines, or one of each. Not more than 3 single hooks or 3 burrs of EXCEPTIONS 3 hooks each may be used per line. Anglers Under 16 Years There is a six fish daily creel limit on American shad. No fishing license or trout stamp is required of persons under 16 The trout season for the Delaware River extends from April 10 years old. through September 30 with no minimum size limit and a daily bag of 5 trout. Fishing on a Farm Farmers and family members that live on the farm do not need a The size limit for striped bass and hybrid bass in the Delaware license to fish on their farm, but must obey the fishing regulations. River is one fish greater than or equal to 24” but less than 28” and one fish 28” or greater (includes both species). The season for Licenses for the Blind striped bass/hybrid bass downstream of Rt. 1 Bridge extends from Residents afflicted with total blindness may obtain a free license March 1 through 31 and June 1 through December 31. Upstream of from the division’s Trenton office. Rt. 1 Bridge the season extends from March 1 through December 31. Spears (not mechanically propelled) and longbows may be used Resident Senior Citizens (70 and over) to take shad, eels, carp, suckers, herring and bullheads by properly Since Jan. 1, 1997, a driver’s license or other acceptable proof of licensed anglers except within 825 ft. of an eel weir. age containing date of birth and physical description will function as the actual fishing license for residents 70 and over. No application fee is required, no registration with the Division of Fish and Greenwood Lake Wildlife is required and no license will be issued. Trout stamps are New York and New Jersey licenses are legal anywhere on the not required for resident anglers 70 and over. lake from a boat only. Fishing is permitted 24 hours a day. Bow and arrow fishing for carp, suckers, herring, catfish and eels is permitted. Ice fishermen may not use more than five tip-ups and two Disabled Veteran’s Licenses & hand held devices. All ice fishing devices that are not hand held Permits must be plainly marked with the name and address of the angler. See also page 17 for additional regulations relating to Recent legislation signed by Governor Whitman provides for the Greenwood Lake and the Delaware River. issuance of free fishing licenses and permits and stamps for resident disabled veterans. GENERAL FISHING REGULATIONS For the purposes of this program, the legislation defines Disabled It is Unlawful: Veterans as: “. . . any resident of New Jersey who has been honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances from active serv- • To take or attempt to take any fish in fresh waters by any man- ice in any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States and who has ner except in the manner commonly known as angling with han- been declared by the United States Department of Veteran Affairs, or its dline or with rod and line, or as otherwise allowed by law. successor, to have a service-connected disability of any degree. . .” • To fish, place any contrivance for the taking of fish, or attempt to catch or kill fish by any manner or means in any fish ladder, or Disabled Veteran hunting licenses are available at the Division’s within 100 feet (or as posted) of any fish ladder entrance or exit Trenton office, as well as all Division field offices. during the period of March 1 through June 30.

6 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST FRESHWATER FISHING LAWS

It is Unlawful To: Snapping Turtles, Bull Frogs and Green Frogs • spear fish in fresh waters. (See exception for Del. River, page 8.) Any person who has a fishing license or is entitled to fish without a license may take snapping turtles, bull frogs and green frogs by means of • possess or use any contrivance in fishing with more than nine hooks or spears, hooks, dip nets not more than 24 inches in diameter, traps or by more than three burrs of three hooks. hand. The use of set lines is prohibited. • use set lines in waters inhabited by pickerel, walleye, bass or trout. The open season for taking of snapping turtles shall extend from • erect, permit the erection of, or maintain unlawful contrivances for tak- January 1, 2001 through April 30, 2001 and from June 16, 2001 through ing fish. April 30, 2002. The open season for the taking of bull frogs and green frogs • use explosives to take fish. shall be from January 1, 2001 through March 31, 2001 and from July 1, 2001 • use cast nets in fresh waters. through March 31, 2002. The daily limit for snapping turtles is 3. The daily limit for bull frogs • trespass on posted property to fish without permission from the and green frogs is 15 in total. Snapping turtles, bull frogs and green frogs landowner. A fishing license doesn’t authorize trespass on private prop- may be taken in numbers greater than the daily limit under special permit erty. issued by the Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife at its discretion (see p.3). • tag fish without a permit. Ice Fishing The foul hooking of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, chain pickerel, northern pike, muskellunge, walleye, brook trout, brown Ice fishing shall be permitted whenever ice is present. (See separate reg- trout, lake trout and rainbow trout or any of the hybrids thereof, is prohib- ulations for trout-stocked waters.) ited in open waters. Any of the aforementioned fish so hooked must be A person while ice fishing may use not more than five devices for tak- immediately returned to the water. This does not apply to fish taken ing fish. The types of devices that may be used are: through the ice during the ice fishing season. Snagging of any species is 1. Ice supported tip-ups or lines with one single pointed hook attached, or prohibited in Monksville Reservoir and its tributaries, including the one burr of 3 hooks that measure not more than 1/2 inch from point to Wanaque River upstream of the reservoir. shaft; 2. An artificial jigging lure with not more than one burr of three hooks that Fish Tagging measure not more than 1/2 inch from point to point; No person may tag or mark and release a fish without first obtaining a 3. An artificial jigging lure with not more than three single hooks measur- special permit issued by the division at its discretion. Fish stocking permits ing not more than 1/2 inch from point to shaft; will be accepted as an alternative to this permit. This requirement does not 4. An artificial jigging lure with a combination of the hook limitations apply to tags issued by the division. Contact the Lebanon Fish Lab at described in 2 and 3 above. 908/236-2118 for application information. Expressly prohibited are any devices with automatic hook setting capa- Possession of Fish bility. Natural bait may be used on the hooks of the artificial jigging lures. “Possession” refers to all fish, alive or dead, under the control of the All devices that are not hand-held must bear the name and address of the angler. No more than the daily creel limit of any fish for one person may be user and can’t be left unattended. held on a stringer or in a container. On board containers in boats may only When ice is not present, open water regulations will be in effect (see contain the combined daily creel limit of any fish for each legal angler. separate regulations for Greenwood Lake). Waste of Fish Carp and suckers may be taken with net under the ice. Suckers may be Fish of any species, which are purposely killed, will become part of the taken through the ice by means of hooks directly attached to a rigid handle, fishermen’s daily bag limit and must be removed from the waters they the hooks not to exceed three in number, between December 1 and March 1. were taken from, as well as any adjacent lands, and either used or other- Bow and Arrow Fishing wise properly disposed of. This does NOT apply to fish that are released while still alive. Any species of fish, except brook, brown, lake or rainbow trout, landlocked Atlantic salmon, largemouth or smallmouth bass, striped bass or Sale of Fish any of its hybrids, pickerel, northern pike, walleye, muskellunge or any of Pickerel, walleye and perch caught through the ice cannot be sold. its hybrids, may be taken at any time by use of a longbow and arrow with It is illegal to sell any smallmouth or largemouth bass, except for stock- line attached by the holder of a proper fishing license (see regulations for ing. It is illegal to import or export smallmouth or largemouth bass into the the Delaware River and Greenwood Lake). A fishing license is required. state for commercial purposes. Trout or landlocked salmon which have been artificially propagated Pollution—Draining Waters—Dams may be sold at any time for food purposes if properly tagged in accordance It is unlawful to directly or indirectly pollute waters of the state. It is with the division’s rules or the rules of the state in which the fish have been illegal to draw off water or place screens in water without permission of raised. the division (see p. 3). It is illegal to construct a dam in any water of this It is illegal to offer for sale any striped bass. state which is a runway for migratory fish without installing a fish ladder Baitfish or other contrivance that permits fish to pass over the dam in either direc- Any person who has a fishing license or is entitled to fish without a tion. Report pollution or other offenses to 609-292-7172 or the Operation license may take up to 35 baitfish per day in fresh waters with a seine not Game Thief Line (800-222-0456). over 50 feet long, in ponds and lakes of over 100 acres, and in other fresh It is illegal to fish or attempt to catch or kill fish by any manner or waters with a seine not over 30 feet in length, or half the width of the means in any waters for which the Director of the Division of Fish, Game stream at the point of use. whichever is less. Minnow traps not larger than and Wildlife, upon approval by the Fish and Game Council, issues an 24 inches in length with a funnel mouth no greater than 2 inches in diame- Emergency Closure Notice. Such notification is effective and/or rescinded ter, and an umbrella net no greater than 3.5 feet square may be used in any immediately upon public notification. Emergency closures shall be based freshwaters of the state. In trout stocked waters (see pages 10, 11, 12) it is upon imminent threat to the well-being of the fishery resources, and/or its prohibited to net or trap baitfish from March 18 to June 15 except where users, and may include any exceptions to the total ban of fishing that the provided. For the remainder of the year, up to 35 baitfish per person per Director deems practical. day may be taken with a seine not over 10 feet in length and 4 feet in depth or a minnow trap not larger than 24 inches in length with a funnel mouth no greater than 2 inches in diameter or an umbrella net no greater than 3.5 feet square. Up to 35 per day of alewife or blueback herring in the aggregate, may be take per person with a dip net not more than 24 inches in The season, size and creel limits for freshwater species diameter, hook and line or as otherwise provided for. Possession limit is apply to all waters of the state, including tidal waters. one day’s limit regardless of the intent to use these fish.Baitfish may be taken from the freshwaters of the state in numbers greater than 35 per day, under special permit issued by the division in its discretion (see p. 3) Fish Stocking Fish or fish eggs shall not be placed into, drained into or placed where they can run, flow, wash or be emptied into any of the fresh waters of the state without first obtaining a permit (see p. 3)

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 7 2001 TROUT FISHING REGULATIONS Trout Season and Daily Creel Limit The trout season for 2001 begins at 12:01 a.m., January 1, and extends to midnight, March 18, 2001. The trout season shall re-open at 8:00 a.m. Saturday, April 7, 2001 and extend to and include March 17, 2002. Between midnight on March 18, 2001 to 8:00 a.m. on April 7, 2001 it is illegal to fish for any species of fish in ponds, lakes or those portions of streams that are listed herein for stocking during 2001. No person shall take, kill or have in possession in one day more than 6 in total of brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout or hybrids thereof during the period extending from 8:00 a.m. April 7, 2001 until midnight May 31, 2001 or more than 4 of these species during the periods of January 1, 2001 to midnight March 18, 2001 and June 1, 2001 to midnight March 17, 2002. Only one creel limit of trout may be in possession. Trout may be caught once the creel is reached if they are immediately returned to the water unharmed. Separate stringers or buckets must be used for each person’s catch; two people may not share a stringer or a bucket. On board containers in boats may only contain the combined daily creel limit for each legal angler on board. Exceptions to the trout season and/or daily creel limit occur on the following: Lake Hopatcong, Prospertown Lake, Pompton Lake, Manasquan Reservoir, Spruce Run Reservoir, Delaware River, Greenwood Lake, Farrington Lake and Lake Shenandoah and Special Regulation Trout Areas. (Consult page 12 and 13 for details.) Also Canistear Reservoir, Clinton Reservoir and the section of the Pequannock River regulated as a Wild Trout Stream are within the Newark Watershed which has a limited season that closes in late October and re-opens on the opening day of trout season each spring. For further information contact the Watershed at 973-697-2850. Size limits and creel limits on species other than trout are in accordance with statewide regulations. The division reserves the right to suspend stocking when emergency conditions prevail. TROUT STOCKED WATERS WITH NO IN-SEASON CLOSURES The waters listed below are open during the entire in-season stocking. For details on what’s being stocked and when, call the Trout Hotline (in April, May, October and December) at 609-633-6765. This recorded message is updated weekly. Or visit our website at www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw. Note that the number in parentheses indicates the anticipated number of in season stockings (between opening day and May 31). A zero indicates that the water will only be stocked pre-season (before opening day). Atlantic County Greenwich Lake—Gibbstown (3) to Alexander St., Princeton (4) Birch Grove Park Pond—Northfield (4) Grenloch Lake—Turnersville (3) Delaware Raritan Feeder Canal— Hammonton Lake—Hammonton (4) Harrisonville Lake—Harrisonville (3) Hunterdon/Mercer County line to Upper Iona Lake—Iona (3) Ferry Road Bridge (6) Bergen County Mullica Hill Pond—Mullica Hill (3) Rosedale Lake—Rosedale (3) Hackensack River—Lake Tappan to Harriot Swedesboro Lake—Swedesboro (3) Stony Brook—Woodsville to Port Mercer (4) Avenue, Harrington Park (4) Westville Lake—Westville (0) Hohokus Brook—Forest Road to Whites Pond (4) Middlesex County Indian Lake—Little Ferry (4) Hudson County Farrington Lake—North Brunswick (3) Mill Pond—Park Ridge (3) West Hudson County Park Pond—Harrison (0) Hooks Creek Lake—Cheesequake State Park (4) Pascack Creek—Orchard Street, Hillsdale, to Woodcliff Lake—James J. Braddock Park, North Ireland Brook—Farrington Lake to point 500 ft. Lake Street, Westwood (4) Bergen (4) upstream of Riva Ave. (2) Saddle River—State line to Dunkerhook Rd., Lake Papaianni—Edison (0) Fairlawn (5) Hunterdon County Lawrence Brook—Dam at Farrington Lake to Scarlet Oak Pond- Mahwah (0) 2nd RR Bridge (Raritan Railroad) below Main Tenakill Creek—Closter, entire length (3) Amwell Lake—East Amwell (3) St., Milltown (4) Whites Pond—Waldwick (4) Beaver Brook—Clinton Township, entire length Roosevelt Park Pond—Edison Township (3) (2) Burlington County Capoolong Creek—Pittstown, entire length (5) Monmouth County Crystal Lake—Willingboro (4) Delaware—Raritan Feeder Canal—Bulls Island to Hunterdon/Mercer County line (6) Englishtown Mill Pond—Englishtown (3) Laurel Pond—Mt. Laurel (3) Garvey’s Pond—Navesink (3) Rancocas Creek, Southwest Br.—Medford, Mill Hakihokake Creek—Holland Township, entire length (2) Hockhockson Brook—Hockhockson Road to Street Park to Branch St. Bridge (4) Garden State Parkway Bridge (northbound) Sylvan Lake—Burlington (3) Lockatong Creek—Kingwood Township, entire length (5) (5) Holmdel Park Pond—Holmdel (3) Camden County Mulhockaway Creek—Pattenburg, source to Spruce Run Reservoir (5) Mac’s Pond—Manasquan (0) Haddon Lake—Audubon (0) Neshanic River—Kuhl Road to Hunterdon Manasquan Reservoir—Howell Township (3) Oak Pond—Sicklerville (4) County Route 514 (2) Mingamahone Brook—Farmingdale, Hurley Rowands Pond—Clementon (4) Nishisakawick Creek-Frenchtown/ Pond Road to Manasquan River (5) Everittstown-entire length (2) Mohawk Pond—Red Bank (4) Cape May County Rockaway Creek—Readington Township, entire Pine Brook—Tinton Falls, Jersey Central Dennisville Lake—Dennisville (3) length (4) Railroad to Hockhockson Brook (2) West Pond—Cape May Court House (4) Rockaway Creek, S. Br.—Lebanon to Shadow Lake—Red Bank (3) Whitehouse, entire length (5) Shark River—Hamilton, Route 33 to Remsen Cumberland County Round Valley Reservoir—Clinton Township (3) Mill Road (5) Bostwick Lake—Friesburg (3) Spring Mills Brook—Spring Mills, entire length Spring Lake—Spring Lake (3) Cohansey River—Dam at Seeleys Pond to (2) Takanassee Lake—Long Branch (4) Powerline above Sunset Lake, Bridgeton (4) Spruce Run—Glen Gardner and Lebanon Topenemus Lake—Freehold (3) Giampietro Park Lake—Vineland (3) Township, entire length (5) Yellow Brook—Heyers Mill Road to Mary Elmer Lake—Bridgeton (3) Spruce Run Reservoir—Clinton (3) Muhlenbrink Rd., Colts Neck Township (2) Maurice River—Willow Grove Lake Dam to Sidney Brook—Grandin, entire length (1) Morris County Sherman Ave, Vineland (4) Wickecheoke Creek—Covered Bridge, Rt. 604, Shaws Mill Pond—Newport (3) Sergeantsville to Delaware River (2) Beaver Brook—Rockaway, entire length Burnham Park Pond—Morristown (4) Essex County Mercer County Drakes Brook—Flanders, entire length (3) Branch Brook Park Lake—Newark (4) Assunpink Creek—Assunpink Site 5 Dam Hibernia Brook—Hibernia, entire length (5) Clarks Pond—Bloomfield (0) upstream of Rt. 130 Bridge to Carnegie Rd., India Brook—Mountainside Ave. to Rt. 24, Diamond Mill Pond—Millburn (3) Hamilton Twp. (4) Ralston, entire length (5) Verona Park Lake—Verona (4) Colonial Lake—Lawrence Township (3) Lake Hopatcong—Lake Hopatcong (3) Delaware Raritan Canal—Mulberry St., Trenton Lake Musconetcong—Netcong (3) Gloucester County

8 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST Mill Brook—Center Grove, entire length (2) Little Flat Brook—Sandyston Twp., entire length Mt. Hope Pond—Mt. Hope (3) (5) Celebrating 50 years Passaic River—White Bridge to Dead River (4) Little Swartswood Lake—Swartswood (3) Pompton River—Pequannock Township (see Lubbers Run—Byram Township, entire length of the Sportfish Passaic Co.) (4) (5) Russia Brook—Jefferson Twp., Ridge Rd. to Lake Neldon Brook—Swartswood, entire length (2) Restoration Program Swannanoa (2) Papakating Creek—Plains Road bridge to Route Speedwell Lake—Morristown (4) 565, Pellettown (2) Every time you purchase fishing equipment, Whippany River—Tingley Road, Morris Twp. to Papakating Creek, W. Br.—Libertyville, entire Ridgedale Ave., Morristown (2) you contribute to the enhancement of sport- length (2) fisheries throughout the United States. Each Pond Brook—Middleville, entire length (5) Ocean County year, in addition to license fees, U.S. anglers Roy Spring Brook—Stillwater, entire length (1) Lake Shenandoah—Lakewood, Ocean County Saw Mill Pond—High Point State Park (3) contribute nearly $300 million to sport fisheries Park (3) Shimers Brook—Montague Twp., entire length enhancement projects across the nation. Most Prospertown Lake—Prospertown (3) (2) do this unknowingly through user fees collect- Passaic County Silver Lake—Hamburg Mountain WMA (0) ed through the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Stony Lake—Stokes State Forest (3) Restoration program. Barbours Pond—West Paterson (3) Clinton Reservoir—Newark Watershed (3) Swartswood Lake—Swartswood (3) It was in 1950 that the original Sport Fish Monksville Reservoir—Hewitt (3) Trout Brook—Middleville, entire length (2) Restoration (or Dingell-Johnson Act) was Oldham Pond—North Haledon (3) Tuttles Corner Brook—Stokes State Forest, entire passed. This legislation, supported by the Pequannock River—Route 23, Smoke Rise to length (2) sporting community and the fishing tackle Paterson—Hamburg Turnpike, Pompton Waywayanda Lake—Vernon (3) industry, is still in effect. It applies a 10-percent Lakes (6) Union County manufacturers excise tax to fishing rods, reels Pompton Lake—Pompton Lakes (3) Green Brook—Route 527, Berkeley Heights to and creels as well as artificial lures, baits and Pompton River—Pompton Lake to Newark- Route 22, Scotch Plains (2) flies. The money collected through this tax or Pompton Turnpike (4) Lower Echo Park Pond—Mountainside (3) “user fee” is specifically earmarked for states Ringwood Brook—State line to Sallys Fond, Ringwood Park (5) Milton Lake—Madison Hill Road Bridge to and is to be used only for projects that enhance Shepherd Lake—Ringwood State Park (3) Milton Lake Dam, Rahway (4) sport fishing. Rahway River—I-78 bridge, Springfield to St. These are some of the past and present proj- Salem County George Ave. (Route 27), Rahway (4) ects funded by the Sport Fish Restoration Harrisonville Lake—Harrisonville (3) Seeleys Pond—Berkeley Heights (3) Program related to freshwater fisheries in New Warinanco Park Pond—Roselle (0) Maurice River—Willow Grove Lake Dam to Jersey: Sherman Avenue, Vineland (4) Warren County Riverview Beach Pond—Pennsville Township (4) Schadlers Sand Wash Pond—Pennsgrove (3) Barkers Mill Brook—Vienna, entire length (1) - fish population surveys of dozens of lakes Beaver Brook—Silver Lake Dam to Pequest Somerset County River (4) - evaluations of the introduction of alternative Harrison Brook—Liberty Corner, entire length Blair Creek—Hardwick Center to Blair Lake (2) warm/cool water species i.e., hybrid (1) Blair Lake—Blairstown (3) striped bass, northern pike, tiger muskie, Lamington River—Rt. 523 (Lamington Road) at Buckhorn Creek—Roxburg, entire length (2) walley and channel catfish Burnt Mills to Jct. with the North Branch of Columbia Lake and Gatehole—Knowlton Twp. Raritan River (4) (3) Furnace Brook—Oxford, entire length (2) - significant portion of the Hackettstown Middle Brook, E. Br.—Martinsville, entire length Hatchery’s annual operating budget (2) Furnace Lake—Oxford (3) Passaic River—White Bridge to Dead River (4) Honey Run—Swayzes Mill Road to Route 519, - trout stream classification evaluations Peapack Brook—Peapack-Gladstone, entire Hope Township (2) length (5) Jacksonburg Creek—Jacksonburg, entire length Raritan River—Jct. of Raritan River N. Br., and S. (2) - evaluation of the introduction of lake trout in Br., to Rt. 206 bridge (4) Lopatcong Creek—Route 519 to South Main RoundValley Reservoir Rock Brook—Zion, entire length (1) Street, Phillipsburg (5) Spooky Brook Park Pond—Franklin (0) Merrill Creek Reservoir—Stewartsville (1) - the fish health project Mountain Lake—Buttzville (3) Pohatcong Creek—Mt. Bethel to Route 31 (2) Sussex County - annual adult American shad population Pophandusing Creek—Oxford Road, Hazen to estimate Alms House Pond—Myrtle Grove, Hampton Delaware River (2) Twp, entire length. (3) Roaring Rock Brook—Brass Castle, entire length and juvenile outmigration index in the Andover Junction Brook—Andover, entire (2) Delaware River length (2) Trout Brook—Hackettstown, entire length (2) Biers Kill—Shaytown, entire length (2) Trout Brook—Hope, entire length (2) - evaluation of the American shad run in the Big Flat Brook, Upper—Saw Mill Pond, High White Lke—Hardwick(1) Raritan River using remote video monitoring Point State Park to 100 ft. above Steam Mill Bridge on Crigger Road, Stokes St. Forest (4) Blue Mountain Lake—Delaware Water Gap - aquatic education programs, including the NRA (3) AquaticWild Project Canistear Reservoir—Newark Watershed (3) Clove River—jct. of Route 23 and Mt. Salem Rd. - construction of numerous boat launching to Route 565 bridge (5) facilities such as Union Lake, Menantico Cranberry Lake—Byram Township (3) Ponds, TuckahoeWMA Culvers Creek—Frankford Twp., entire length (5) - purchase of a state-of-the-art electrofishin Dry Brook—Branchville, entire length (3) boat Franklin Pond Creek—Hamburg Mt. W.M.A., entire length (5) - plus numerous other studies, investigation, Glenwood Brook—Lake Glenwood to State line manage ment and development efforts. (2) New Jersey anglers can be proud of the con- Lake Aeroflex—Andover (3) Lake Hopatcong—Lake Hopatcong (3) tribution they make to the enhancement and Lake Musconetcong—Netcong (3) conservation of both our own and the nation’s Lake Ocquittunk—Stokes State Forest (3) sportfish populations.

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 9 TROUT FISHING REGULATIONS - 2001

TROUT - GENERAL (BROOK, BROWN, RAINBOW & LAKE TROUT AND HYBRIDS THEREOF) SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT EXCEPTIONS January 1 to March 18 7 inches 4 1) Waters with in-season stocking closures are closed to fishing 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days listed for stocking (see listing below). March 19 to April 8 at 8 a.m. Fishing prohibited on all 2) Special regulation areas (wild trout streams, year round & seasonal trout waters listed for stocking conservation areas, fly fishing & no kill areas, trophy & holdover trout lakes). 3) Lk. Hopatcong, Prospertown Lake, Manasquan Res., Farrington Lake, Pompton Lake, Lake April 7 at 8 a.m. to May 31 7 inches 6 Shenandoah and Spruce Run Res. - fishing is permitted during the period Mar. 19 to April 8 at 8 a.m. All trout caught during this period must immediately be released. June 1 to December 31 7 inches 4 4) Greenwood Lk. & Delaware River - see separate regulations for Boundary Waters. TROUT STOCKED WATERS WITH CLOSED IN-SEASON STOCKING DATES Closed to fishing 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. on dates listed for stocking, including all tributaries, for a distance of 100 ft. from the main channel Manasquan River - Rt. 9 bridge downstream to Bennetts bridge, Manasquan WMA Metedeconk River, N/Br. - Aldrich Rd. bridge to Ridge Ave. MONDAYS Metedeconk River, S/Br. - Bennetts Mill dam to twin wooden foot bridge, opposite Lake Park Blvd. on South Lake Drive, April 9, 16, 23, 30 Lakewood May 7, 14, 21 Rockaway River - Longwood Lk. dam (Jefferson Twp) to Jersey City Reservoir in Boonton Toms River - Rt. 528, Holmansville, to confluence with Maple Root Branch, and Rt. 70 bridge to Rt. 571 bridge Wallkill River - Lake Mohawk dam to Rt. 23, Hamburg

TUESDAYS April 10, 17, 24 Pohatcong Creek - Rt. 31 to Delaware River May 1, 8, 15, 22 Raritan River, S/Br. - Budd Lk. dam to jct. with N/Br. Raritan River WEDNESDAYS April 11, 18, 25 Raritan River, N/Br. - Peapack Rd. bridge in Far Hills to jct. with S/Br. Raritan River May 2, 9, 16, 23 Black River - Rt. 206, Chester to the posted Black River Fish & Game Club property at the lower end of Hacklebarney State Park THURSDAYS Paulinskill River - and E/Br. and W/Br. - Limecrest RR spur bridge on E/Br., Sparta Twp., and Warbasse Jct. Rd. to (Rt. 663) on April 12, 14, 26 W./Br, Lafayette Twp., to Columbia Lake (Exception: E/Br open for fishing but subject to year-round trout conservation area May 3, 10, 17, 24 regs) Ramapo River - State line to Pompton Lk. (including Potash Lake) FRIDAYS Big Flat Brook - 100 ft. above Steam Mill bridge on Crigger Rd. in Stokes S.F. to Delaware River April 13, 20, 27 Musconetcong River - Lk. Hopatcong dam to Delaware R. including all mainstream impoundments except for Lk. Musconetcong May 4, 11, 18, 25 Pequest River - source downstream to Delaware River Wanaque River - Greenwood Lk. dam to jct. with Pequannock River, excluding Wanaque Res., Monksville Res. and Lk. Inez TROUT STOCKED WATERS WITHOUT CLOSED IN-SEASON STOCKING DATES Consult pages 10 and 11 for a complete list. WILD TROUT STREAMS SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT RESTRICTIONS (in effect year round) April 7 at 8 a.m. to Sept. 15 7 inches 2 1) Only artificial lures may be used. (see # 3) 2) Possession or use of bait (live or preserved) or any substance (natural or synthetic) that contains a concentration of bait scent is prohibited. Jan. 1 to April 7 at 8 a.m. Catch & Release Only & Sept. 16 to Dec. 31 3) The minimum size for brown trout in Van Campens Bk. & Pequannock R. is 12 inches. Bear Creek (Southtown) Indian Grove Brook Pequannock River (Newark, Morris Co.) Bear Swamp Brook (Mahwah) (Bernardsville) Watershed, Oak Ridge Rd. Tetertown Brook (Tetertown) Black Brook (Clinton WMA) Ledgewood Brook (Ledgewood) bridge downstream to railroad Trout Brook (Hacklebarney S.P.) Burnett Brook (Ralston) Little York Brook (Little York) bridge immediately upstream Turkey Brook (Mt. Olive) Cold Brook (Oldwick) Lomerson Brook (Pottersville) of Charlottesburg Res.) Van Campens Brook (Delaware Dark Moon Brook (Johnsonburg) Merrill Creek (Stewartsville) Rhineharts Brook (Hacklebarney Water Gap Nat’l Recreation Dunnfield Creek (Del. Water Gap) Mill Brook (Montague) S.P.) Area) Flanders Brook (Flanders) N/Br. Rockaway Creek Rocky Run (Clinton Twp.) West Brook (source downstream Hances Brook (Penwell) (Mountainville) Stephensburg Creek to Windbeam Club property) Hickory Run (Califon) Parker Brook (Stokes S.F.) (Stephensburg) Willoughby Brook (Clinton Twp.) India Brook (source to Mountain- Passaic River (source to Rt. 202, Stony Brook (Stokes S.F.) side Ave., Mendham) Bernardsville) Stony Brook (Washington Twp., YEAR ROUND TROUT CONSERVATION AREAS SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT RESTRICTIONS (in effect year round) January 1 to March 18 15 inches 1 1) Only artificial lures may be used. 2) Possession or use of bait (live or preserved) or any substance (natural or synthetic) March 19 to April 7 at 8 a.m. Catch & Release Only that contains a concentration of bait scent is prohibited. 3) Fishing is permitted during the spring in-season stocking closures which apply to April 7 at 8 a.m. to Dec. 31 15 inches 1 (see # 3) the river. All trout caught during these periods must be immediately released. Paulinskill River, E/Br. (Sussex County) - from the Limecrest railroad spur bridge downstream to its confluence with the W/Br. Paulinskill at Warbasse Jct. (approx. 2.25 miles) S/Br. Raritan River (Morris County) - a section of river, known locally as the Claremont Stretch, extending from the downstream end of the posted Anglers Anonymous property downstream to its junction with Electric Brook (approx. 1.1 miles) Toms River (Ocean County) - the downstream end of Riverwood Pk. in Dover Twp, defined by markers, downstream to the Rt. 571 bridge (approx. 1 mile)

10 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST SEASONAL TROUT CONSERVATION AREAS

SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT RESTRICTIONS January 1 to March 18 15 inches 1 1) Only artificial lures may be used. March 19 to midnight April 6 Catch & Release Only 2) Possession or use of bait (live or preserved) or any substance (natural or synthetic) that contains a concentration of bait scent is prohibited. April 7 (12:01 am to 8 am) Fishing Prohibited 3) Pequest R. - fishing is not permitted during the first six in-season stocking closure April 7 at 8 a.m. to May 21 dates. Fishing is permitted during the last in season stocking closure date (May 25), Gear restrictions do not apply 7 inches 6 but all trout caught between 5 a.m. and 5 p.m. must be immediately released. May 21 to Dec. 31 15 inches 1 Pequannock River (Morris/Passaic Counties) - Rt. 23 bridge at Smoke Rise downstream to the Rt. 23 bridge at Smith Mills (approx. 1.2 miles) Pequest River (Warren County) - from the Conrail Railroad bridge located upstream of the Pequest Trout Hatchery Access Rd. downstream to Rt. 625 (Pequest Furnace Rd.) bridge (approx. 1 mile) FLY FISHING AREAS

SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT RESTRICTIONS January 1 to March 18 7 inches 4 1) Only artificial flies are allowed, which are expressly limited to dry flies, wet flies, March 19 to April 7 at 8 a.m. Fishing not permitted bucktails, nymphs and streamers. Expressly prohibited are metal, plastic, or wooden April 7 at 8 a.m. to lures, plugs, spinners, and flies with spinners attached or any multiple-hooked April 16 at 5 a.m. 7 inches 6 device. Spinning reels or any type of angling whereby a fly is cast directly from the Gear restrictions do not apply reel are expressly prohibited. except on Blewett Tract 2) Possession or use of bait (live or preserved) or any substance (natural or synthetic) that contains a concentration of bait scent is prohibited. April 16 at 5 a.m. to May 31 7 inches 6 3) Fishing is not permitted during the in-season stocking closures. June 1 to December 31 7 inches 4

Big Flat Brook (Sussex County) - Rt. 206 bridge downstream to the Roy bridge on Mountain Rd., a distance of approx. 4 miles, except that portion known as the Blewett Tract Blewett Tract - a 0.5 mile portion on the Big Flat Brook clearly defined by markers, which extends from the Three Bridges Rd. to a point upstream of the jct. of the Big Flat Bk. and Little Flat Bk. Raritan River, S/Br. (Hunterdon County) - the stretch of water known as the Ken Lockwood Gorge, a distance of approximately 2.5 miles

NO KILL AREA

RESTRICTIONS (in effect year round) Open to fishing year round except 1) Only artificial flies are allowed, which are expressly limited to dry flies, wet flies, bucktails, during the in season stocking closures. nymphs and streamers. Expressly prohibited are metal, plastic, or wooden lures plugs, spinners, and flies with spinners attached or any multiple-hooked device. Spinning reels or All trout caught must be immediately released. any type of angling whereby a fly is cast directly from the reel are expressly prohibited. 2) Only single pointed barbless hooks may be used. Musconetcong River (Morris/Warren Counties) - 3) Possession or use of bait (live or preserved) or any substance (natural or synthetic) that Rt. 24 bridge downstream 1 mile to the entrance of contains a concentration of bait scent is prohibited. the river into the Johnson property 4) Fishing is not permitted during the in-season stocking closures. TROPHY TROUT LAKES

LOCATIONS SPECIES SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT brown & rainbow trout January 1 to December 31 15 inches 2 Merrill Creek Reservoir lake trout January 1 to September 15 and December 1 to December 31 15 inches 2 brown & rainbow trout January 1 to December 31 15 inches 2 Round Valley Reservoir lake trout January 1 to September 15 and December 1 to December 31 20 inches 1 HOLDOVER TROUT LAKES

LOCATIONS SPECIES SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT Clinton Reservoir January 1 to March 18 7 inches 2 Lake Aeroflex Lake Wawayanda all trout species March 19 to April 7 at 8 a.m. Catch & Release Only Monksville Reservoir Shepherd Lake April 7 at 8 a.m. to May 31 7 inches 4 Swartswood Lake White Lake (Warren Co.) June 1 to December 31 7 inches 2 BOUNDARY WATERS

LOCATIONS SPECIES SEASON MIN. SIZE DAILY LIMIT April 10 to September 30 Delaware River all trout species (trout caught at other times must be immediately released) no min. size 5 Greenwood Lake all trout species January 1 to December 31 no min. size 3

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 11 2001 Warm and Coolwater Fish Regulations

Conservation Regulations possession limit is 10 fish and the minimum length is 8 inches. For channel Special conservation regulations have been established at Ryker Lake, catfish the daily possession limit is 5 fish and the minimum length is 12 Sussex County, to protect and maintain the quality of panfish and large- inches. For all warmwater fishes not mentioned above (including but not mouth bass fisheries. limited to sunfishes, bullheads, and yellow perch), the daily possession Species Minimum Size Daily Limit limit is 25 fish, exept for Ryker Lake. (See Conservation Regulations Largemouth Bass 15 inches 2 above). For alewife and blueback herring the possession limit is 35 fish in Sunfish 7 inches 10 (combined) aggregate. See special regulations for the Delaware River and Greenwood Yellow perch none 10 Lake on Page 17. Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass The minimum size of largemouth/smallmouth bass is 12 inches, except for Parvin Lake, Assunpink Lake and Delaware Lake (Lunker Bass Lakes) and Ryker Lake where it is 15 inches. The daily creel and possession limit for largemouth/smallmouth bass is 5 in total, except for Parvin Lake, Splitrock Reservoir, Assunpink Lake and Delaware Lake where it is 3, and Ryker Lake where it is 2. The minimum size limit only on smallmouth bass in Boonton Reservoir is 15 inches with a creel limit of 3. During the period of April 15 through June 15, the possession of all bass is prohibited and all bass caught shall be immediately returned to the water unharmed. Striped Bass It is illegal to take, catch or kill any striped bass from or in any fresh waters of this state by means of a net of any description or by any method other than angling with a hook and line. It is illegal to possess any striped bass, or parts of a striped bass from which the head and/or tail has been removed (other than while in preparation or being served as food), which is less than the legal minimum size. The minimum length for striped bass taken from freshwater is one fish greater than or equal to 24” but less than 28” and one fish 28” or greater. Striped bass may not be taken or possessed during the following periods: Striped Bass Closed Seasons Jan 1-Feb 28—All waters except the Atlantic Ocean from 0-3 miles off- shore. April 1-May 31—Delaware River and tributaries from Trenton Falls downstream to the boundary between New Jersey and Delaware. The State of Delaware also has a closed season in the Delaware River during this time between the northern boundary of NJ and Delaware, downstream to the south jetty of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. In this area, the entire Delaware River is under the jurisdiction of the State of Delaware. Striped Bass Bonus Fish Program The Striped Bass Bonus Fish Program applies to New Jersey’s marine and estuarine waters up to the freshwater fishing license line. An application for fish possession cards may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed, #10 envelope to NJ F&W, Striped Bass Fish Program, PO Box 418, Port Republic, NJ 08241. For a list of Striped Bass Bonus Program Check Stations, call 609-748-2020. Striped Bass Hybrid The minimum length for striped bass x white bass hybrid is 16 inches and the daily creel and possession limit is 2, except for the Raritan River downstream of the Duke Island Park dam where the daily possession limit and the minimum length is one fish greater than or equal to 24” but less than 28” and one fish 28” or greater. Walleye The daily creel and possession limit for walleye is 3, statewide, including the Delaware River. The minimum length is 18 inches. A closed season is in effect from March 1, 2001 to April 30, 2001 except for the Delaware River where there is no closed season. Other Warmwater/Coolwater Fishes For tiger musky and muskellunge the daily possession limit is 2 fish in aggregate, and the minimum length is 30 inches (except for Lake Hopatcong, Monksville Reservior and Greenwood Lake where the minimum length is 36 inches and the daily limit is 1 fish; the minimum length for muskellunge in Echo Lake, Newark Watershed, Mountain Lake, Warren Co., is 40 inches). For northern pike, the daily possession limit is 2 fish, and the minimum length is 24 inches. For chain pickerel, the daily possession limit is 5 fish. There is a minimum length of 15 inches at Lakes Hopatcong, Swartswood and Hammonton only. For black and white crappie, the daily

12 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 2001 Warmwater and Coolwater Freshwater Fishing Regulations

Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass Season Location Minimum Size Daily Limit hwater Jan.1 - April 14 Statewide 12” 5 Combined es F (exceptions below) r i F sh 1 i April 15 - June 15 Lunker Bass Lake 15” 3 Combined 0 n Catch & Release Only (Assunpike, Parvin, 0 g 2 (all waters) Delaware Lakes) WORKING SINCE 1892 FOR WILDLIFE, PEOPLE & HABITAT June 16, -2001 Conservation 15” 2 Combined April 14, -2002 (Ryker Lake) Splitrock Res 12” 3 Combined Boonton Res 15” (Smallmouth) 3 Combined 12” (Largemouth) Northern Pike, Tiger Musky, Muskellunge Statewide 24” Northern pike 2 (exceptions below) 30” Tiger Musky & 2 Combined Muskellunge Trophy Musky 40” Tiger Musky & Open Year Round (Mountain & Echo Lake Res) Muskellunge

Conservation Regulation 36” Tiger Musky & 1 Combined (Lk Hopatcong, Monksville Res) Muskellunge Chain Pickerel Statewide No minimum size Open Year Round (exceptions below)

Special Regulation 15” 5 (Lk Hopatcong, Swartswood Lake, Hammonton Lk) Walleye Jan. 1 - Feb 28 March 1 - April 30 Statewide 18” 3 Catch & Release Only May. 1 - Feb 28, 2002 Striped Bass (freshwater only) Statewide Greater or equal to 24” 1 March 1 - Dec 31 (exceptions:Delaware River) but less than 28” 28” or greater 1 Hybrid Striped Bass Statewide 16” 2 Open Year Round (exceptions below) Raritan River downstream Greater or equal to 24” 1 March 1 - Dec 31 of Duke Island Park dam but less than 28” 28” or greater 1 Shad (American & Hickory) Daily permit Open Year Round Statewide No minimum size 6 Channel Catfish required for Open Year Round Statewide 12” 5 fishing in Crappie ( Black & White) Open Year Round Statewide 8” 10 Combined Newark Other Fish Species (rock bass, white bass, white perch, yellow perch, sunfish, bullheads, Watershed white catfish, suckers, carp, bowfin, redfin, pickerel) Statewide No minimum size 25 Combined Conservation & Open Year Round (exceptions below) Conservation Lake Sunfish 7” 10 Combined Development Ryker Lake Yellow Perch no min.size 10 Corp. waters Baitfish (See page 9 for complete description of gear types and restrictions) Open Year Round (except trout Statewide No Minimun 35 Combined Call : stocked waters, see page 10) except 6” for Am. eel Baitfish Species: alewife (anadromous and land-stocked forms), blueback herring, golden shiner, banded killifish, mummichog, spotfin killifish, rainwater killifish, American brook lampkey, fathead minnow, bluntnose minnow, (973) 697-2850 stonecat, tadpole madtom, margined madtom, all shiners, daces, minnows and American eel.

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 13 Freshwaters where a license is required to fish with handline, rod and line or long bow and arrow Listed by county and alphabetically by name of water. A license is required upstream of each location.

ATLANTIC COUNTY Oranoken Creek–Whitecar Mill, North of Beaver Dam Long Swamp Creek–Washington Street Bridge, Toms Absecon Creek–Dam at Lower Atlantic City Reservoir Oyster Creek–None–all saline water River Great Egg Harbor River–Power lines at confluence of Riggins Ditch–Route 47 Manahawkin Creek–Dams for Manahawkin W.M.A. Gravelly Run Sow and Pigs Branch Nantuxent–None–all saline impoundments bayside Middle River–None–all saline water water Metedeconk River–Rt. 70 Bridge, Laurelton Mullica River–Line between Seventh Ave., Sweetwater, Stow Creek–Buckhorn Rd. Bridge, Jericho Mill Creek–Mouth of Creek at lagoons in Beach Haven and ramp at Crowleys Landing Straight Creek–None–all saline water West Nacote Creek–Port Republic Dam West Creek–100 ft. below West Creek Lake Dam Mill Creek–Pine Beach–Ocean Gate Road Patcong Creek–Bargaintown Lake Dam (Pickle Factory Pond) Oyster Creek–Route 9 South River–Power lines immediately below Route 50 ESSEX COUNTY Parkers Run–None–all saline water Tuckahoe River–First northerly tributary downstream Passaic River–Erie Railroad Bridge between Newark Potters Creek–None–all saline water of Rt. 49 Bridge (McNeals Branch) (at Verona Ave.) and Kearny Stouts Creek–None–all saline water BERGEN COUNTY Peddie Ditch–None–all saline water Stouts Creek S. Br.–Bayside East Parkway Hackensack River–Cedar Lane Bridge between GLOUCESTER COUNTY Toms River–Garden State Parkway, Northbound Bridge Hackensack and Teaneck Big Timber Creek–Required whole length Tuckerton Creek–Dam at Route 9 Hudson River–None–all saline water Delaware River–Commodore Barry Bridge at Waretown Creek–Route 9 Passaic River–Required whole length Bridgeport West Creek–Route 9 BURLINGTON COUNTY Mantua Creek–Required whole length PASSAIC COUNTY Assiscunk Creek–Required whole length Oldmans Creek–Route I-295 Bridge License Required on All Waters Bass River State–Fir Bridge on Stage Road in Bass Raccoon Creek–Required whole length SALEM COUNTY River State Forest Woodbury Creek–Required whole length Alloway Creek–Route 540 Bridge at Alloway Batsto River–Required whole length HUDSON COUNTY Black Ditch–None–all saline water Blacks Creek–Required whole length Hackensack River–None–all saline water Delaware River–None–all saline water Crosswicks Creek–Required whole length Hudson River–None–all saline water Fishing Creek–None–all saline water Delaware River–Required whole length Passaic River–Railroad bridge between Newark (at Hope Creek–None–all saline water Mullica River–Line between Seventh Ave., Sweetwater, Verona Ave.) and Kearny Mad Horse Creek–None–all saline water and ramp at Crowleys Landing Mill Creek–None–all saline water Pennsauken Creek–Required whole length HUNTERDON COUNTY Oldmans Creek–Route I–295 Southbound Bridge License Required on Delaware River and all other Pompeston Creek–Required whole length Salem River–Dupont Dam near Cedar Crest Manor waters Rancocas Creek–Required whole length Salem Canal–Dam at Deepwater Swedes Run–Required whole length MERCER COUNTY Stow Creek–Buckhorn Rd. Bridge, Jericho Wading River–Charcoal Landing, Chips Folly License Required on Delaware River and all other Straight Ditch–None–all saline water Campground waters SOMERSET COUNTY CAMDEN COUNTY MIDDLESEX COUNTY License Required on all waters License Required on Delaware River and all other Cheesequake Creek–Dam at Cheesequake Lake, SUSSEX COUNTY waters Cheesequake State Park Licensed Required on Delaware River and all other Lawrence Brook–N.J. Turnpike Bridge, East waters CAPE MAY COUNTY Brunswick Bidwells Creek–None–all saline water UNION COUNTY Raritan River–Landing Lane Bridge, New Brunswick Elizabeth River–West Grand St., Elizabeth Cedar Swamp Creek–None–all saline water South River–Route 527 Bridge (New Brunswick Old Dennis Creek–None–all saline water Great Ditch–None–all saline water Bridge Tpk.) Morses Creek–Old Morses Mill Rd. East Creek–100 ft. below East Creek Lake Dam, Woodbridge River–N.J. Turnpike Bridge Eldora Oyster Creek–None–all saline water Tuckahoe River–First northerly tributary downstream MONMOUTH COUNTY Peddie Ditch–None–all saline water of lower Rt. 49 Bridge (McNeals Br.) Black Creek–Spillway at Ocean Rd. Piles Creek–None–all saline water West Creek–100 feet below West Creek Lake Dam Branchport Creek–Mouth of Turtle Mill Brook Rahway River–Lawrence St. (Rt. 514), Rahway (Pickle Factory Pond) Deal Lake–Top of Dam WARREN COUNTY Hockhockson (Pine) Brook–Garden State Parkway License Required on Delaware River and all other CUMBERLAND COUNTY Northbound Bridge waters Andrews Creek–None–all saline water Little Silver Creek–Little Silver Creek Brook Back Creek–None–all saline water Manasquan River–Bennetts Bridge, Manasquan Cedar Creek–100 ft. downstream of Cedar Lake Dam Wildlife Management Area Cohansey River–Rt. 49 Bridge at Bridgeton Matawan Creek–Lefferts Lake Dam IMPORTANT FOOTNOTES: Dividing Creek–Route 555 Bridge Oceanport Creek–Mouth of Husky Brook 1. Absence of a river, creek, brook Fishing Creek–None–all saline water Parkers Creek–Mouth of Parkers Creek Brook Fortescue Cr./Branch of Oranoken Cr.–None–all saline or other waterway from this list Shark River–Remsen Mills Road does not make it exempt from water Swimming River–Swimming River Road Bridge Manumuskin Creek–Required whole length Wreck Pond Creek–Rt. 71 Bridge requiring a license to fish the Maurice River–Mouth of Manumuskin Creek near Port freshwaters. Elizabeth MORRIS COUNTY 2. Names of waters conform to License Required on all waters Menantico Creek–Required whole length those given on the United States Mill Creek–Tributary of Cohansey–Route 553 Bridge, OCEAN COUNTY Geological Survey 7.5 Minute Fairton Beaver Dam Creek–Route 88 Topographic Series Maps. Muskee Creek–S. side of bridge on Weathersby Road Cedar Creek–Route 9 Nantuxent Creek (Pages Run)–Route 553 north of Cedar Run–Route 9 Frames Corner Dinner Point Creek–None–all saline water Double Creek–None–all saline water Forked River–All branches Route 9 Gunning River–None–all saline water Jakes Branch–Above Atlantic City Blvd. Jeffreys Creek–Ocean Gate Road to Ocean Gate Kettle Creek–Route 549 Lake of the Lilies–Entire lake

14 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife 2001 Freshwater Fishing Season and Creel Limits

LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICES Northern Region: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren counties...... 908-735-8240 Central Region: Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties...... 609-259-2120 Southern Region: Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties ...... 856-629-0555 Operation Game Thief ...... 800-222-0456 BOUNDARY WATERS

Delaware River between New Jersey and Pennsylvania Angling may be done with 2 rods, each with 1 line, or 2 handlines, or 1 of each. Not more than 3 single hooks or 3 burrs of 3 hooks each may be used per line. New Jersey or Pennsylvania fishing licenses are recognized from shoreline to shoreline. Anglers may launch a boat from either shore, and on return may have in possession any fish which may be legally taken according to the regulations of the state where the landing is made. Pennsylvania residents fishing from the New Jersey shore may have either a NJ nonresident license or a PA resident license. Pennsylvania also enforces a 6 inch minimum and an 8 inch maximum on American eel.

SPECIES OPEN SEASONS MINIMUM LENGTH DAILY BAG LIMIT (BOTH DATES INCL.) (POSSESSION LIMIT— 1 DAY’S CATCH) Trout April 7-Sept. 30 no minimum 5 Walleye no closed season 18" 3 Chain pickerel no closed season 12" 5 Muskellunge & hybrids no closed season 30" 2 N. Pike no closed season 24" 2 Largemouth & no closed season 12" smallmouth bass 5 in aggregate Striped bass & March 1-Dec. 31 Greater than or equal to 24” hybrids upstream 1 but less than 28” of Rt. 1 Bridge;

Downstream of March 1-31 & 1 28” or greater Rt. 1 Bridge June 1-Dec. 31 Short-nosed sturgeon illegal to take—endangered species Atlantic sturgeon illegal to take American shad, Hickory shad no closed season no minimum 6 in aggregate All other fresh- no closed season no minimum water species Baitfish* no closed season no minimum 50

*Baitfish including alewife and blueback herring may be taken and possessed for personal use only but not to exceed 50 per day. It is unlawful to use a net of any kind between the hours of 2 p.m. Saturday and 12 midnight on Sunday. Eel weirs for catching carp, catfish, eels and suckers may be operated under permit from the Division of Fish and Wildlife at any time of the year and any time of day. See other Delaware River regulations, Page 8.

Greenwood Lake New York and New Jersey licenses are legal anywhere on the lake. Fishing is permitted 24 hours a day. Bow and arrow fishing for all carp, suckers, herring, catfish and eels is permitted. Ice fishermen may not use more than 5 tip-ups and 2 hand held devices. All ice fishing devices that are not hand held must be plainly marked with the name and address of the angler.

SPECIES OPEN SEASONS MINIMUM LENGTH DAILY BAG LIMIT (BOTH DATES (BOTH DATES (POSSESSION LIMIT— INCLUDED) INCLUDED) 1 DAY’S CATCH) Trout no closed season none 3 Largemouth Jan. 1-April 14, 2001 12" 5 in aggregate & smallmouth and June 16 to bass April 14, 2002

April 15-June 15, 2001 catch & release only

Chain pickerel no closed season 15" 5 Muskellunge no closed season 36" 1 & hybrids Walleye Jan. 1-Feb. 28, 2001 & 18" 3 May 1-Feb. 28, 2002 Channel Catfish no closed season 12" 5 Black & White Crappie no closed season 8" 10 in aggregate All other species no closed season none none

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 15 Exceptions to Statewide General Fishing Regulations

Exceptions to the statewide general fishing regulations occur throughout the state. The exceptions listed below may apply to all or part of the waterbody specified. Consult elsewhere in this Digest for individual descriptions of special regulations. Note: Trout stocked waters without closed inseason stocking dates do not generally appear on this list. These waters are listed elsewhere in the Digest and are closed to all fishing during the three week period prior to the opening day of trout season in April (unless otherwise noted as an exception below).

Key to Exceptions CML Conservation Musky Lake OYR Open Year Round for fishing BW Boundary Water (trout caught during the 3 weeks prior to opening day in April must be released) CPL Chain Pickerel Lake SBL Smallmouth Bass Lake CR Conservation Regulation STCA Seasonal Trout Conservation Area FFA Fly Fishing Areas (trout) TML Trophy Musky Lake HSB Hybrid Striped Bass TSWC Trout Stocked Water having Closed In-season Stocking Dates HTL Holdover Trout Lake TTL Trophy Trout Lake LBL Lunker Bass Lake WTS Wild Trout Stream NK No Kill (trout) YTCA Year Round Trout Conservation Area

List of Exceptions Middlesex County Trout Brook (Hacklebarney Lake Wawayanda - HTL Atlantic County Farrington L. - OYR S.P.) - WTS Mill Brook (Montague) - Hammonton Lake - CPL Raritan River - HSB Turkey Brook (Mt. Olive) - WTS Bergen County Monmouth County WTS Musconetcong River - Bear Swamp Brook - WTS Lake Assunpink - LBL Ocean County TSWC Ramapo R. - TSWC Manasquan Reservoir - Lake Shenandoah - OYR Parker Brook (Stokes S.F.) - Manasquan River - TSWC Burlington County OYR WTS Manasquan River - TSWC Metedeconk River, N/Br & Paulinskill River - TSWC Delaware River - BW Metedeconk River, N/Br - S/Br - TSWC Paulinskill, E/Br - TSWC, Camden County TSWC Prospertown Lake - OYR YTCA Delaware River - BW Morris County Toms River - TSWC, YTCA Pequest River - TSWC Cumberland County Black River - TSWC Passaic County Ryker Lake - CR Delaware River - BW Boonton Reservoir - SBL Clinton Reservoir - HTL Stony Brook (Stokes S.F.) - Parvin Lake - LBL Burnett Brook (Ralston) - Echo Lake Res - TML WTS Gloucester County WTS Greenwood Lake - BW, Swartswood Lake - HTL, Delaware River - BW Flanders Brook - WTS CML CPL Monksville Reservoir - Hunterdon County India Brook (Mendham) - Van Campens Brook - WTS HTL, CML Black Brook (Clinton WMA) WTS Wallkill River - TSWC Pequannock River - STCA, - WTS Indian Grove Brook Warren County (Bernardsville) - WTS WTS Cold Brook (Oldwick) - Bear Creek - WTS Lake Hopatcong - OYR, Pompton Lake - OYR WTS Dark Moon Brook CPL, CML Shepherd Lake - HTL Delaware River - BW (Johnsonburg) - WTS Ledgewood Brook - WTS Wanaque River - TSWC Hickory Run (Califon) - Delaware Lake - LBL Lomerson Brook West Brook - WTS WTS Delaware River - BW (Pottersville) - WTS Salem County Little York Brook - WTS Delaware River - BW Dunnfield Creek (Del. Musconetcong River - Musconetcong River - Somerset County Water Gap) - WTS TSWC TSWC, NK Passaic River - WTS Indian Grove Brook Hances Brook (Penwell) - Raritan River, S/Br - TSWC, Pequannock River - STCA, (Bernardsville) - WTS WTS FFA WTS Lomerson Brook Merrill Creek - WTS Rockaway Creek, N/Br - Rhineharts Brook (Pottersville) - WTS Merrill Creek Reservoir - WTS (Hacklebarney S.P.) - Passaic River - WTS TTL Rocky Run (Clinton Twp) - WTS Raritan River - HSB Mountain Lake - TML WTS Raritan River, N/Br - Raritan River, N/Br & S/Br Musconetcong River - Round Valley Reservoir - TSWC, YTCA - TSWC TSWC, NK TTL Raritan River, S/Br - TSWC, Sussex County Paulinskill River - TSWC Spruce Run Reservoir - OY YTCA Big Flatbrook - TSWC, FFA Pequest River - TSWC, Willoughby Brook Rockaway River - TSWC Delaware River - BW STCA (Clinton Twp) - WTS Stephensburg Creek - WTS Lake Aeroflex - HTL Pohatcong Creek - TSWC Mercer County Stony Brook (Wash. Twp.) - Lake Hopatcong - OYR, Van Campens Brook - WTS Delaware River - BW WTS CPL, CML White Lake - HTL 16 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST Lake inventories available for sale A booklet entitled Inventory of New Jersey Lakes and Ponds (Vol. 1, No. 1) is available by mail from the Division of Fish and Angler Ethics Wildlife. The 12 inventories in this booklet provide information on lakes recently monitored by the Bureau of Freshwater 1.Keep Only the Fish Needed Fisheries. The work was done under a Federal Aid In Sportfish Restoration Project. These investigations include fish popula- 2.Do Not Pollute—Properly Dispose of Trash tions and physical characteristics of a representative sample of lakes open to public angling. 3.Sharpen Angling and Boating Skills Included is information on the location of the water, the fish 4.Observe Angling and Boating Safety Regulations species present, recent stocking information, water depths, weed distribution and water quality including dissolved oxygen dis- 5.Respect Other Anglers’ Rights tribution. The following lakes are included:

Amwell Lake, Hunterdon County Manasquan Reservoir, Monmouth County 6.Respect Property Owners’ Rights Assunpink Lake, Monmouth County Merrill Creek Reservoir, Warren County 7.Pass on Knowledge and Angling Skills Budd Lake, Morris County Scarlet Oak Pond, Bergen County Colliers Mill Pond, Ocean County Tummill Pond, Ocean County 8.Support Local Conservation Efforts Furnace Lake, Warren County Union Lake, Cumberland County 9.Never Stock Fish or Plants Into Public Waters Green Turtle Pond, Passaic County Wilson Lake, Gloucester County 10.Promote the Sport of Angling The cost of a bound copy of these 12 Lake Inventories is $3.00 including postage and handling. Please make checks payable to “NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife.” Send your request to: Lake Inventories, NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife, Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries, PO Box 394, Lebanon, NJ 08833.

Water Supply Reservoirs Open to Fishing By Permit Only

Waterbody County Type of Fishing Fee Permit Source Newark’s Pequannock Passaic & Newark Watershed Watershed Reservoirs Sussex boat & shoreline Yes Conser. & Dev. Corp. (Echo Lake, Clinton, 223 Echo Lake Rd. Oak Ridge & Canistear) Newfoundland, NJ 07435 (973) 697-2850

Oradell Reservoir Bergen shoreline only No Hackensack Water Co. Lake Shore Drive Haworth, NJ 07641 (201) 767-2952

Wanaque Reservoir Passaic shoreline only No No. Jersey District Water Supply Comm. One F.A. Orechio Dr. Wanaque, NJ 07465 (973) 835-3600

Boonton Reservoir Morris shoreline only Yes United Water (a.k.a. Jersey City Res.) Jersey City 150 Warren St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 200-2780

Point View Res. Passaic shoreline only No Passaic Valley Water Commission 1525 Main Ave. Clifton, NJ (201) 340-4300

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 17 Winter Trout Stocked Lake Programs By Bob Papson, Principal Fisheries Biologist The peak fishing period for New Jersey trout anglers occurs in the spring; however, fall and winter fishing has gained popularity among many anglers, especially where good numbers of fish are available. This interest is evident in our very popular fall trout stocking program and in winter stocking programs conducted in neighboring states, like Pennsylvania. The division will add variety to our trout stocking program and increase angling opportunities during late fall and winter by initiating a winter trout stocked lakes program. For the winter period, ice fishermen may be a major beneficiary, but this option is by no means limited to ice fishing. These winter stocked trout will readily strike in open water at low temperatures; the allowance of ice fishing on any water is not a criteria of the program. In recent years, safe ice formation has been sporadic, especially in south Jersey, so open water winter fishing has been the norm.

Twenty-four lakes geographically distributed throughout the state will be stocked with a total of 12,940 rainbow trout, averaging 11 inches in length. Targeted lake sizes from 5 to 100 acres should provide optimal use and returns. North Jersey lakes will be stocked the last week of November and south Jersey lakes the first week of January. Interstate Highway 195 is the dividing line between north and south Jersey lakes, except Topenemus Lake will be stocked with the south Jersey waters.

In addition to on-site angler counts, a tagging study will be conducted to evaluate the success of this winter stocking program. Trout stocked in 8 of the waters (see lakes marked with an * in the list below) will be tagged with metal jaw tags. Tag receptacles will be set up at each of these lakes. The tags of harvested trout should be placed in the tag receptacle or mailed to our division office in the envelopes provided. Angler cooperation in returning these tags is very important in the evaluation of this program.

Take advantage of the division’s winter trout stocked lakes program. For many Garden State anglers, the traditional holiday baked ham or turkey just might be replaced by fresh baked rainbow trout. Outdoor Skills Winter Trout Stocked Lakes Workshop for Name County Name County Women * Lake Ocquittunk Sussex Little Swartswood Sussex These workshops are for you if you have never tried these activities and hope for an Silver Lake Sussex Aeroflex Sussex opportunity to learn, you are a beginner who hopes to improve your skills, you have some Barbours Pond Passaic * Shepherd Lake Passaic outdoor experience and would like to expand your abilities, and you are excited to meet Mill Pond Bergen Woodcliff Lake Hudson other outdoor enthusiasts. While Becoming * Furnace Lake Warren Mt. Hope Pond Morris an Outdoors-Woman workshops are designed primarily for women, anyone over 18 years Speedwell Lake Morris * Verona Park Lake Essex of age is welcome to participate. For more information and to be placed on * Amwell Lake Hunterdon Lower Echo Lake Union our mailing list, please fill out this coupon and mail to: Hook’s Creek Lk Middlesex * Rowands Pond Camden NJFW, 220 Blue Anchor Rd., Sicklerville, NJ 08081. * Topenemus Lake Monmouth Spring Lake Monmouth

Lk Shenandoah Ocean Laurel Pond Burlington Riverview Beach Pond Salem Mullica Hill Pond Gloucester Outdoor Skills Shaws Mill Pond Cumberland * Birch Grove Park Pond Atlantic Workshop Name ______Address ______City ______County ______State ______Zip ______

18 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST Fish Art and Writing Contest

New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife is beginning a NEW fish art and and fishing equipment. In addition, each winner will be invited to the writing contest! Open to all students in grades 4 through 8, this contest is Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center in Oxford based on the Aquatic WILD activity “Fishy Who’s Who”. (A full description for a special VIP tour and awards ceremony. Winners will be able to fish at of this activity used by teachers in grades 5 through 8 is found on the divi- the Pequest Fishing Education Pond on the opening day of trout season — sion’s website: www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw. This wildlife activity can help Saturday, April 7, 2001. Select winning entries will be featured in the teachers meet NJ Science Standards 5.12.4 and 5.7.4,1.) Division of Fish & Wildlife’s 2002 Freshwater Fish Digest. Draw any New Jersey freshwater fish in Entries must be postmarked by Friday, acrylics, watercolors, oil, pastels, crayons or February 23, 2001 and must include the ink. Art must be original, with the fish depict- entrant’s name, address, ed in its natural habitat. Finished artwork size telephone number, grade and school should be approximately 8 x 10 inches. Entries name. All entries become the property of will be judged first on the artwork. New Jersey Division of Fish Contest entries also must include a written and Wildlife and will not be returned. biography of the same New Jersey fish depict- Submit to: Fish Art and Biography ed in the artwork. Each fish biography must New Jersey winners from 2000 Wildlife Forever contest, Contest, NJ Division of Fish and include: fish distribution in New Jersey, its (left to right) William Duffy and Michael Klimchak. Wildlife, 605 PequestRd., Oxford, NJ habits, habitat, ecological significance, and the 07863. Note that this contest is not affiliated commercial or recreational importance of the with the Wildlife Forever State Fish Art fish. Biographies are limited to one page or 500 words, preferably typed. Contest. For information on their contest, see www.wildlifeforever.org. Categories include first and second place winners for each grade level from 4th through 8th grades. Biographies will be judged supplemental to the fish artwork. Each winner will receive an engraved plaque Operation Game Wildlife Profiles Available Thief—Report There are limited quantities of New Jersey Wildlife Profiles available for sale at Wildlife Violators $23.95. The 112-page book features repro- The Operation Game Thief (OGT) hotline provides ductions of 52 full color wildlife paintings created for the pages of New Jersey a toll-free phone line to report violations of laws pro- Outdoors Magazine by wildlife artist Carol Decker.Wildlife information and distribu- tecting wildlife. If you know of incidents involving wildlife including tion maps are included. This is an excel- the dumping of hazardous, toxic or solid waste; illegal harvesting lent reference for educators, wildlife enthusiasts or libraries. of small lobsters; poisoning of birds; and violations of deer, wild Published by the Division of Fish and turkey and endangered species laws, call 1-800-222-0456. If the Wildlife, the book can be purchased through the mail or at the division’s information you anonymously provide leads to the issuance of a Trenton office at 501 East State Street or the Pequest Trout Hatchery and Natural Resource Education Center on Route 46 in Oxford. To summons, you may be eligible for a cash reward. The OGT pro- receive a copy in the mail, send a check payable to NJ Division of gram is sponsored jointly by the Division and the New Jersey Fish and Wildlife for $28 (includes postage) to: P.O. Box 400, Trenton, NJ 08625-0400. Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs.

Attention Sportsman Pack out what you pack in No Littering! Respect our natural resources and all landowners, whether public or private. The sportsman image depends on you; a little litter can make a huge difference

20 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST New Jersey Freshwater Fish Illustrations by Carol Decker Alewife Herring Pumpkinseed Sunfish

Brown Bullhead Black Crappie

Channel Catfish Largemouth Bass

Brook Trout Smallmouth Bass

Brown Trout Northern Pike

Lake Trout Chain Pickerel

Bluegill American Shad

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 21 NEW JERSEY Wild Places & Open Spaces WILDLIFE VIEWING GUIDE The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife is proud to announce the publication of the New Jersey Wildlife Viewing Guide. The publication of the Guide is the culmination of a two year project coordinated by the Division’s Endangered and Nongame Species Program to establish a network of viewing sites throughout the state. The Guide beautifully illustrates the rich natural treasures that few people realize exist in the state. Experience the amazing diversity of New Jersey’s wildlife and habitats at 87 of the state’s best Wildlife Viewing Areas. The 165 page Guide is full of color photos and illustrations and provides directions to each site and information on site facilities, best viewing seasons and which animals and habitats can be seen. Unique to the New Jersey Guide is the addition of Wildlife Diversity Tours. In four regions, expanded information is provided on five sites in each region that when experienced through a 2-3 The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife is proud to announce day trip provide a deeper understanding the publication of Wild Places & Open Spaces-A Wildlife and appreciation of the ecosystems and wildlife found in the region. Enthusiasts Guide to Finding and Using Public Open Order yours today by using the order Space in the Garden State. The publication, designed simi- form below. Credit card orders can be placed by calling 609/292-9450. lar to a road map, offers the outdoors-person a wealth of The creation of the Wildlife Viewing Guide and the development of a information on locating and exploring New Jersey’s open Watchable Wildlife Program for New Jersey was made possible through spaces in a compact and easy-to-read format. funding from the sale of ‘Conserve Wildlife’ license plates. Wildlife Viewing Guide Order Form Name ______Originally developed as an updated version of the familiar Address ______Guide to Wildlife Management Areas, the publication not City ______State ______Zip _____ only contains valuable information on Division wildlife man- Payable by Credit Card, Check or Money Order for $10.95 agement areas and the variety of wildlife present, but Plus $3.95 S/H to: includes state parks, forests and much more! Showcasing a NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife full-color map of New Jersey, more than 700,000 acres of Endangered and Nongame Species Program public open space are highlighted with an accompanying PO Box 400 Ð Trenton, NJ 08625-0400 wildlife activity grid. ___ Visa ___ MC ___ Discover ___ American Express ❑❑❑❑ ❑❑❑❑ ❑❑❑❑ ❑❑❑❑ Order yours today by using the form below. Expires: ❑❑ / ❑❑ Signature: ______Send check or money order made payable to: NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife Wild Places Map P.O. Box 400 Trenton, NJ 08625-0400 Conserve Wildlife License Plates Attn: Carol Nash Support Nongame and Endangered Species Since 1972, the Endangered and Nongame Species Name ______Program (ENSP) has worked to protect and restore New Jersey’s endangered and threatened wildlife. You can help ______the program through the Income Tax Check-off and/or through the Conserve Wildlife license plate. Address ______

These attractive $50 license plates let everyone know City ______you believe in conservation, and 80% of your tax- State ______Zip Code______deductible payment goes directly to the ENSP. Personalized Wildlife Plates are also available for $100. Quantity Ordered ______Previously available by mail only, motorists may now (price per map: $4 includes shipping) purchase the plates in person at DMV offices regardless of their current expiration dates. Plates can also be purchased from car dealers when buying or leasing a new car. Total Enclosed $ ______

22 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST The Partnership for Wildlife Volunteerism Platinum Visa¨ Card

4417 1234 5678 9112 ¡ªª¶ ºº/ºº √ J . W . STEWART

U633 When you carry the Partnership for Wildlife Volunteerism Platinum Visa card, you’ll carry more than just another credit card. This is the only Visa card program that helps support important volunteer activities conducted by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife—at no additional cost to you. It’s an easy way to show your support, because each time you use your card to make a purchase — a contribution will automatically be made to supporting Division programs such as “Becoming an Outdoors-Woman” and “Take a Kid Hunting”. TO APPLY CALL 1-800-FIRST-USA New Jersey Seventeenth Waterfowl Stamp and Print Kicking off the New Jersey Landmark Series with the Hautman Brothers New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Waterfowl Stamp This area is the wintering ground host to vast numbers of migrating Advisory Committee is proud to announce the HABITAT 2000 LAND- waterfowl including canvasbacks and it plays a vital role in their sur- MARK SERIES to be painted by the three Hautman brothers, the only vival during migration. brothers ever to win the prestigious Federal Duck Stamp Competition. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France on the Since 1990, they have won the competition 5 times! The series begins 100th birthday of America’s freedom. Designed by Augustie Barthold, it with the 2000/01 design, featuring canvasbacks flying past America’s was built with the assistance of Gustave Eiffel and is the cornerstone of most recognizable New Jersey landmark, the Statue of Liberty, and will Liberty State Park. It was officially unveiled on October 28,1886 by be painted by Joe Hautman. President Grover Cleveland. The Statue of Liberty is open daily (except Brother Bob Hautman will paint the second year scene of tundra December 25). To find out more about the environmental and historical swans at Sedge Island on Barnegat Bay. The third year will feature Jim education programs offered for all age groups, teacher workshops and Hautman creating a fall scene of wood other public programs, call (201) 915- ducks at the Delaware Water Gap. These 3409. three land areas are preserved open New Jersey, through an act of the State space for all to enjoy and cherish! Legislature, began annually requiring The Hautman Brothers are fast emerg- waterfowl stamps in 1984. The New ing as America’s foremost wildlife Jersey Department of Environmental artists. All three brothers have received Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife numerous honors and awards, including administers the program for the purpose of dominating many states and national purchasing wetlands for waterfowl habitat. duck stamp competitions. At last count, To date, proceeds from the sale of New the three brothers have seen their art fea- Jersey’s duck stamps and prints have tured on over 34 state and federal raised over $3,600,000, all to acquire wet- stamps. The talents of the Hautman lands for waterfowl habitat and public use. Brothers as well as their unique family Over 11,400 acres of waterfowl habitat gift were mentioned in the major motion have been purchased or donated. picture “FARGO”. They have received New this year, the New Jersey national accolades from newspapers Waterfowl Stamp Advisory Committee such as USA Today, The Washington Post, Minneapolis Star Tribune and has added two additional products: a limited edition (500) collectors The St. Paul Pioneer Press, as well as the following magazines: TIME, knife for each year of the series plus a limited edition (500) Habitat US News & World Report, Sports Illustrated, U.S. Art, Fur-Fish-Game 2000 Souvenir stamp card that will feature three (3) artist signed stamps and the North American Hunter. (one for each year of the series). This year’s artist, Joe Hautman, brought home the Federal Duck For more information on how to purchase a print, collector duck Stamp honors in 1992. The eldest Hautman brother, Joe won the South stamps or one of the new products, send a legal size SASE to: The Carolina Duck Stamp award in 1994. He also designed the New Jersey Waterfowl Stamp Advisory Committee, NJ Div. of Fish and Wildlife, Duck Stamp in 1995, the 1998 Connecticut Duck Stamp and most P.O. Box 400, Trenton, NJ 08625-0400 Or come visit us on the web at recently won the contest for the 2000 Minnesota Turkey Stamp. www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw and click on the products section. Remember, The seventeenth waterfowl stamp and print will feature New Jersey’s, the profits from the sale of these items goes towards the preservation of (and maybe America’s) most recognized landmark, the Statue of Liberty. waterfowl habitat in New Jersey!

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 23 New Jersey’s Wild Brookies - Are they the Genuine Article? By Patricia L. Hamilton, Principal Fisheries Biologist

Before I worked for New Jersey Division domesticated hatchery trout, thereby dam- of Fish and Wildlife, I had no idea there aging or destroying the genetic integrity of were wild trout in New Jersey. As a trout the original populations? angler, I gravitated to the streams and rivers stocked with hatchery-reared trout. It The division, in collaboration with East wasnít until I had a few years under my Stroudsburg University, has embarked belt as a biologist sampling fish populations upon a study designed to answer this in brooks and streams, that I began to important question. Blood samples collect- understand and appreciate our state’s wild ed from a portion of our wild brook trout trout resources. Did you know wild trout populations are being tested using sophisti- inhabit many of the small streams cradled cated DNA analyses similar to those used in the forested hills and mountains of north to solve crimes. Division biologists are Jersey? The division has identified nearly examining populations suspected to be 130 streams, brooks, and their tributaries genetically “pure”, as well as those having that sustain wild trout. a long history of stocking. The data result- ing from this investigation will help deter- Wild trout populations are able to main- mine if New Jersey has genetically unique tain themselves naturally, through their populations of brook trout. own reproductive efforts. Their survival does not depend upon the stocking of To all but the most ardent of trout anglers hatchery-reared trout. Three trout species this study may seem to be a trivial scientific successfully reproduce in our streams. exercise. Yet solving this mystery will allow Brown trout, us to take an important imported from step forward in man- Europe before aging our trout the turn of the resources. Should century, have New Jersey be fortu- become wide- nate and have ves- ly established. tiges of ancestral Rainbows, brook trout, efforts to native to the preserve, conserve, West Coast, and restore these were later “heritage” popula- introduced tions could begin. and also man- Perhaps it may lead to aged to gain a the adoption of regula- foothold here. tions that would protect However, New Jersey’s only true native them from over-fishing. trout, present since the glaciers receded, is the brook trout. But more importantly, the key to their survival lies in protecting their habitat. Wild “brookies” are a sight to behold. Their sides are speckled with yellow and Development of the forested lands sur- magenta spots and the translucent orange rounding the sensitive headwater streams fins on their undersides are trimmed with a where wild brook trout dwell may be the leading white, then black, edge. During the greatest threat to their continued existence. fall spawning period their colors intensify, Diminishing or fluctuating water flows, particularly on males, which may have a along with increased water temperatures pronounced orange belly stripe. Subtle dif- and sedimentation, create hardships for ferences in coloration and body shape of wild trout which can eventually cause their brook trout throughout their native range demise. Looking at the larger picture, main- (northeastern North America) were taining both plant and animal biodiversity observed by biologists. These observations in the face of a changing landscape is a con- prompted researchers to investigate the cept that is being embraced both state and genetic origins of brook trout. It has been worldwide. determined that distinct genetic differences exist among brook trout from different geo- The colorful brook trout has been desig- graphic regions. nated our state fish, which may turn out to be even more appropriate than we thought. Yet no one knows where New Jersey’s So the next time you pass by a small stream brook trout populations fit into this genetic that comes tumbling down a mountain, or puzzle. Do we have rare populations that flowing quietly near the base of a hillside, are remnants of the original fish that colo- pause to ponder: are there brook trout lurk- nized our area after deglaciation? Or, as a ing out of sight? result of widespread stocking, have genetically pure populations interbred with

24 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 2001 Hackettstown Fish Hatchery Report Robert Olsen, Superintendent Warmwater/Coolwater Stocking List The new intensive fish culture building at Pequest Trout Hatchery and Hackettstown was officially completed and Natural Resource Education Center 605 Pequest Road turned over to the division in March 2000. This Oxford, NJ 07863 new facility provides a tremendous improve- This information can also be obtained by visiting ment in our indoor fish rearing capabilities by our website at: increasing rearing volume, water flow and www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw improving water quality. Those species which are raised in this new system, are lake trout, northern pike, tiger muskie, muskellunge, hybrid striped bass, channel catfish and sunfish. Summary of All Species Distributed from the Production of all these species improved this past Hackettstown State Fish Hatchery in 2000 year under this new intensive system. AVERAGE RANGE The major emphasis with this new system is not LENGTH to raise more fish but to raise fish to a larger size SPECIES NUMBER (inches) (inches) before being released. This will increase their Bluegill Sunfish Fingerlings 66,000 1.0 .7 - 1.6 survival in the wild and ultimately improve the Adults 12,000 5.0 3.3 - 7.1 cool and warmwater fisheries throughout New Channel Catfish Jersey. Fry 243,540 -- -- Fingerlings 14,820 3.2 2.4 - 3.9 In addition to those species raised indoors, the Adv. Fingerlings 55,060 6.8 4.0 - 9.4 following fish are raised outdoors under exten- Fathead Minnows 6,200 1.0 .5 - 2.0 sive conditions. They consist of walleye, black Black Crappie 15,200 2.3 1.6 - 5.1 crappie, largemouth and smallmouth bass, brown Lake Trout bullhead, golden shiners, fathead minnows and Largemouth Bass 16,500 2.7 1.8 - 4.6 mosquitofish. These species are raised outdoors Mosquitofish 288,430 — — because they do not do well under intensive cul- Muskellunge Adv. Fingerlings 5,521 9.8 6.8 - 13.4 ture methodologies. Smallmouth Bass Some species such as hybrid striped bass actu- Fingerlings 5,400 2.5 2.1 - 2.9 ally thrive well under both culture methods. They Adults 175 14.0 12.0 - 18.0 are placed into outside ponds as five-day-old fry Tiger Muskies Fry 82,410 -- -- and allowed to grow until they reach around 1 Fingerlings 16,587 5.5 2.4 - 9.2 1/2 inches in length. They are then brought Adv. Fingerlings 8,670 11.1 8.8 - 15.2 inside and grown to four inches before being Walleye released. This past year was our most productive Fry 1,534,000 -- -- Fingerlings 170,430 1.8 1.0 - 2.3 year to date with over 70,000 hybrid striped bass Adv. Fingerlings 47,7048 3.7 2.7 - 6.5 fingerlings being stocked into the following Northern Pike waters: Manasquan Reservoir (12,210), Lake Fry 210,420 -- -- Fingerlings 31,700 4.3 2.0 - 5.8 Hopatcong (39,600) and Spruce Run Reservoir Adv. Fingerlings 26,077 7.0 5.1 - 8.6 (18,990). Golden Shiners 1,600 2.0 1.5 - 2.5 This past year a total of 2,956,352 fish were Brown Bullhead 7,000 4.0 3.0 - 6.0 released from the Hackettstown Hatchery. The Hybrid Striped Bass 79,800 4.3 3.0 - 5.0 different species and numbers of fish stocked are TOTAL 2,956,352 summarized in the adjacent table.

For a complete list of stocked waters indicating where these various fish have been released, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 25 1 3 3 2 2 en gland). heir advisories. pulations, but do age. They are the developing gland (hepatopancreas) gland (hepatopancreas) do not eat or harvest do not eat or harvest 3 3 January 2001 Edition 2 2 by area; see belowby area; see below by area gland (hepatopancreas) gland (hepatopancreas) striped bass*American lobsters consumption advisories vary glands do not eat green consumption advisories vary bluefish (over 6 lbs.), white and white catfishperch than do not eat more glands do not eat green once a week do not eat bluefish (over 6 lbs.), white and white catfishperch blue crab than do not eat more once a week do not eat do not eat green do not eat green channel catfish* than one meal every two months do not eat more American eel White perch FISH AND CRAB ADVISORIES BASED ON PCB, DIOXINS CHLORDANE CONTAMINATION LOCATION SPECIES GENERAL POPULATION HIGH RISK INDIVIDUAL (Issued 6/99) recognize that certain sub-populations may be at a higher exposure and should take additional steps when consuming fish under t that certain sub-populations may be at a higher exposure recognize High risk individuals include: infants, children under the age of 15, pregnant women, nursing mothers and women of childbearing under the age of 15, pregnant High risk individuals include: infants, children impact on since these contaminant’s have a greater the designated regions advised not to eat any such fish or crabs taken from young. these waters. No harvest means no taking or attempting to take any blue crabs from (gre showing elevated levels of chemical contaminant’s in the blue crab hepatopancreas based on research Interim recommendation advisories between General Population and High Risk Po do not differentiate The State of Pennsylvania and the Delaware NEW JERSEY STATEWIDE Note: local advisories specificmay be more for the same species.See below. COMPLEX BAY NEWARK American eelThis complex includes Newark Bay, of Oradell Hackensack River downstream Kull, tidalArthur Kill, Kill Van Dam, bluefish (over 6 lbs.) thatportions of all rivers and streams striped bass*feed into these water bodies and American eel* than do not eat more than do not eat more of DundeePassaic River downstream blue crab* that feed into this Dam and streams section of the river. all fish and shellfish*HUDSON RIVER do not eat than do not eat more do not eat Hudson River includes the river do not eat of NY-NJdownstream border once a week Alpine, NJ)(about 4 miles above do not eat Bay.York and Upper New do not eat or harvest American eel* do not eat once a week blue crab* striped bass* COMPLEX once a week BAY RARITAN do not eat This complex includes the NewJersey portions of Sandy Hook andRaritan bays, the tidal portions of of the Rt. 1Raritan River (downstream than do not eat more do not eat and the tidalbridge in New Brunswick) that portions of all rivers and streams bluefish (over 6 lbs.), white striped bass* than do not eat more feed into these water bodies. and white catfish perch do not eat or harvest than do not eat more COASTALNORTHERN WATERS do not eat includes all coastal waters fromThis area Raritan Bay south to the Barnegat Inlet once a week striped bass* do not eat blue crab once a week CAMDEN AREA See additional advisories below than do not eat more do not eat once a week includes Strawbridge Lake, This area (north and southPennsauken Creek branches) Cooper River and its drainage,Cooper River Lake, Stewart Lake and crustaceans* Newton Lake. once a week than do not eat more all fish, shellfish and do not eat RIVER & BAY LOWER DELAWARE NJ is honoring DE and PA advisories do not eat greenSee additional advisories on other chart. PA toYardley, River from Delaware includes all tributaries border, do not eatthe PA/DE up to the head of tide do not eat American eel once a week the DE/PA River from Delaware border do not eat green south to C & D Canal All finfish the C& D River from Delaware Canal south to the mouth of bayDelaware striped bass* do not eat do not eat Striped bass Channel catfish do not eat than one meal a month do not eat more White catfish that one 8-oz. meal per year For species listed do not eat more * in New Jersey. designated water bodies is prohibited Selling any of these species from 1 2 3 4 • do Do • Eat smaller-sized fish (within Eat smaller-sized • Do not eat the green gland (hepatopancreas). gland (hepatopancreas). Do not eat the green • Christine Todd Whitman, Governor • Robert C. Shinn, Jr., Commissioner, NJ Commissioner, Whitman, Governor • Robert C. Shinn, Jr., Christine Todd Dept. of Environmental Protection Avoid batter or breading, because they hold in the liquid batter or breading, Avoid • CATCH & RELEASE FISHING CATCH After cooking, discard all liquids. Do not reuse. After cooking, discard IMPORTANT HEALTH INFORMATION HEALTH IMPORTANT • Bake or broil the fish on an elevated rack that allows fats to drain Bake or broil BOUND BROOK INTERIM FISH ADVISORY • Eat a variety of fish from different locations. different Eat a variety of fish from from the waters described above”. This final advisory extends beyond from PREPARATION AND COOKING GUIDELINES FOR FISH UNDER ADVISORIES PREPARATION • A Guide to Health Advisories For Eating Fish and Crabs Caught in New Jersey Waters Eating, selling or taking (harvesting) blue crabs from Newark Bay Complex is prohibited. Eating, selling or taking (harvesting) blue crabs from What you need to know about recreational fishing and crabbing need to know What you Before cooking, remove and do not eat, the organs, head, skin, and the dark fatty tissue along and do not eat, the organs, cooking, remove Before • Other helpful guidelines to reduce exposure to contaminant’s: exposure Other helpful guidelines to reduce Fish are an excellent source of protein, minerals and vitamins and play a role in maintaining a minerals and vitamins play a role of protein, an excellent source Fish are to federal guidelines for dioxin, PCBs, chlordane developed with reference These advisories were Agency Protection classified by the United States Environmental are Dioxin, PCBs and chlordane your health, to these potentially harmful contaminant’s and protect minimize exposure To These charts also contain information about advisories issued by the states of Pennsylvania and August 1998, NJDEPIn length of the issued a final fish consumption advisory for the entire a tagged fish, If you capture Some fish have been tagged as part of ongoing scientific programs. You can reduce the level of PCBs, dioxins and most other chemicals (but not mercury) by properly the level of PCBs, dioxins and most other chemicals (but not mercury) can reduce You Remove green gland (hepatopancreas) before cooking. After cooking, discard the cooking water. the cooking water. After cooking, discard cooking. before gland (hepatopancreas) Remove green in any juices, sauces or soups. gland (hepatopancreas) not use cooking water or green The highest levels of chemical contaminant’s are found in the hepatopancreas, commonly known as found in the hepatopancreas, The highest levels of chemical contaminant’s are taken from gland under the gills. If blue crabs are gland. It is the yellowish green the tomalley or green techniques can be the water bodies other than Newark Bay Complex, following preparation to some contaminant’s: exposure followed to reduce BLUE CRABS: state size regulations), instead of larger fish. Smaller, younger fish have lower levels of contaminant’s fish. Smaller, instead of larger state size regulations), older fish. than larger, which may contain contaminant’s. the back bone, belly and lateral line (sides). to the pan below; do not fry in a pan. healthy, well-balanced diet. Many people enjoy cooking and eating their own catch. However, since well-balanced diet. Many people enjoy cooking and eating their own catch. However, healthy, began to show elevated levels of potentially harmful contaminant’s in certain fish 1982, when research adopted to guide citizens on safe consumption and crabs in some New Jersey waters, advisories were practices. both charts should read You in the aquatic species water bodies listed charts. and mercury going fishing. before thoroughly can pose health risks to the human substances in humans. Mercury cancer-causing as probable nervous system, particularly to developing fetuses. mentioned. the areas and eating the species taken from follow the guidelines below when preparing for specific fish and crabs in each in effect The following charts contain advisories and prohibitions water body as of January 1999. (See the note on advisory updates.) are Canal. These areas River and the Chesapeake Delaware that cover the Delaware Delaware common fishing spots for New Jersey residents. and its tributaries, including New Market Pond Spring Lake. This action follows an Bound Brook interim advisory issued in 1997, when as part of an EPA investigation of the Cornell-Dublier Superfund site in South Plainfield, NJ excessive polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) contamination was This final NJDEP the Bound Brook. identified in the fish collected from advisory warns the public “ not consume any fish of fish testing as a second round to include Spring Lake (tributary the Bound Brook) Bound Brook conducted by EPA identified level of PCBs in excess the FDAAll waterways have been action level. and public information on these toxic contaminant’s is available in this other posted accordingly contact the agencies publications. Should you want any additional information concerning this matter, listed below. printed on the tag along with of the tagging agency or program the name and address record for this small rewards offer Many programs number on the tag and date location of capture. contact: or tag and release, information. For additional information on catch and release US Fish & Wildlife Service 1-800-448-8322US Fish & Wildlife American Littoral Society 1-800-8BAYKPR 609-748-2020 NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife NJAssoc. 201-857-2400 Chapter Hudson River Fishermen’s cleaning, skinning and trimming species affected by most advisories and following the cooking cleaning, skinning and trimming species affected fish (see charts at right). do not eat prohibited However, below. recommendations FISH:

26 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST ears old. basspickerelpickerelpickerel than once a week do not eat more pickerel do not eat than once a month do not eat more do not eat than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more pickerel than once a week do not eat more pickerel no restrictions than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more do not eat do not eat than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more than once a month do not eat more pickerelpickerelpickerel no restrictions than once a week do not eat more pickerel no restrictions than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more than once a month do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more than once a month do not eat more pickerel than once a week do not eat more pickerel no restrictions than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more than once a month do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more pickerel no restrictions than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a week do not eat more do not eat than once a week do not eat more than once a week do not eat more do not eat than once a month do not eat more do not eat pickerelpickerel than once a week do not eat more pickerel than once a month do not eat more pickerel than once a week do not eat more no restrictions than once a week do not eat more pickerel do not eat than once a week do not eat more than once a week do not eat more do not eat than once a month do not eat more bass and pickerel than once a week do not eat more bass and pickerel than once a month do not eat more than once a month do not eat more do not eat (except those listed below) (except those listed below) LOCATION SPECIES ADVISORY† CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES FOR LARGEMOUTH BASS AND CHAIN PICKEREL FROM NEW JERSEY FRESHWATERS NEW JERSEY STATEWIDE bodies For all freshwater GENERAL POPULATIONAllowed Atlantic City Reservoir - No Fishing HIGH RISK INDIVIDUAL CreekBig Timber Canistear ReservoirClinton ReservoirCranberry Lake CreekCrosswicks Crystal Lake (Burlington County) bass River (Easton to Trenton)Delaware bass to Camden) River (Trenton Delaware See additional advisories above bassLake Carasaljo bass than once a week do not eat more bassLake Hopatcong bass no restrictions bass bass than once a week do not eat more Manasquan Reservoir ReservoirMerrill Creek pickerel than once a week do not eat more do not eat Monksville Reservoir no restrictions than once a week do not eat more than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more no restrictions do not eat Rockaway River no restrictions no restrictions than once a month do not eat more ReservoirRound Valley bass than once a week do not eat more bassShadow Lake bass than once a month do not eat more bass Run ReservoirSpruce than once a week do not eat more than once a week do not eat more than once a week do not eat more Swartswood Lake bass than once a month do not eat more Union Lake than once a week do not eat more no restrictions bass Reservoir bassWanaque than once a week do not eat more do not eat LakeWilson do not eat Memorial Lake do not eat Woodstown bass than once a week do not eat more than once a month do not eat more bass than once a month do not eat more do not eat no restrictions bass† One meal is defined as an eight-ounce serving. under five y nursing mothers and children within one year, women, women planning pregnancy pregnant • High risk individuals are bass bass no restrictions than once a week do not eat more than once a month do not eat more bass no restrictions than once a month do not eat more bass than once a week do not eat more than once a month do not eat more than once a month do not eat more than once a week do not eat more than once a week do not eat more no restrictions do not eat do not eat than once a month do not eat more than once a month do not eat more PINELANDS AREA For all water bodies SITE-SPECIFIC PINELANDS Lake Lenape LakeMirror ForgeStafford RiverWading SITE-SPECIFIC STATEWIDE Assunpink Creek bass bass bass than once a month do not eat more bass than once a month do not eat more bass no restrictions than once a month do not eat more do not eat do not eat than once a month do not eat more do not eat no restrictions than once a week do not eat more magazine, the USAdministration Food and Drug nging. For the most up-to-date information, please contact: ADVISORY UPDATES ADVISORY FOR MORE INFORMATION FDA Consumer Division of Fish & Wildlife (609) 748-2020 Division of Fish & Wildlife NJ Department of Health & Senior Services NJ Protection Department of Environmental Division of Science & Research (609) 984-6070 Division of Science & Research FEDERAL ADVICE ON MERCURY IN SALTWATER FISH IN SALTWATER FEDERAL ADVICE ON MERCURY For information on New York health advisories, contact: York For information on New For information on Delaware Health Advisories, contact: Health For information on Delaware For background information on the advisories in chart, For background PA (717) 787-9633 Resources Department of Environmental Consumer & Environmental Health Services (609) 588-3123 Consumer & Environmental For information on Pennsylvania health advisories, contact: DE Department of Health and Social Services (302) 739-5617 NY Conservation (518) 457-6178 Department of Environmental For information on health advice regarding saltwater fish, contact: For information on health advice regarding local libraries can refer you to NJlocal libraries can refer Administrative Code 7:25-14, 18A USAdministration Seafood Hotline at (800) Food and Drug FDA-4010 AAmerican lobster has shown elevated levels of PCBs, study of the regional recent A GUIDE TO MERCURY HEALTH ADVISORIES FOR EATING FISH FROM NEW JERSEY FRESHWATERS ADVISORIES FOR EATING HEALTH A GUIDE TO MERCURY Advisories on fish consumption can change to protect public health as new data are collected and public health as new data are Advisories on fish consumption can change to protect the Department of prompted bass and chain pickerel on largemouth Recent research found in these fish would cause immediate health It is very unlikely that the levels of mercury the quality of in certain fish, it does not affect Although data show elevated levels of mercury general and specific information on the statewide Pinelands area The charts provide in saltwater fish. mercury issued advice below by the federal government regarding See recently In the September 1994 issue of Some evidence suggests, however, that shark and swordfish should be consumed less frequently. that shark and swordfish Some evidence suggests, however, If you would like further information, please call the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Some of the advisories listed herein may be cha Some of the advisories listed herein AMERICAN LOBSTERS: cadmium and dioxin in the green gland (tomalley or hepatopancreas). This finding is consistent with gland (tomalley or hepatopancreas). cadmium and dioxin in the green consumers are other lobster studies conducted in waters of the northeastern coastal states. Therefore, Maine to NJ, American lobsters caught from gland of all and not consume the green advised to remove gland. This advisory does not apply to other the lobster green made from as well avoid products edible portions of the lobster. advice for fish different Also, these agencies on occasion offer by state and federal agencies. reviewed consumption. New Jersey is working with other agencies and committed to developing the most useful, consistent advice possible. For the latest information, call one of numbers below. and the Department of Health & Senior Services to issue consumption Protection Environmental a toxic metal, found in these species. Mercury, advisories due to elevated levels of mercury fish feed on smaller fish, mercury the food chain. Since larger accumulates in fish tissue through bass fish at the top of food chain—such as largemouth collects in their tissue as well, so that larger likely to have elevated levels of mercury. more and chain pickerel—are Of consumption of contaminated fish poses potential health effects. repeated However, effects. on the nervous system of developing fetuses. particular concern is the potential effect waters used for drinking and bathing. covers much of the seven counties in southeastern portion advisories. The Pinelands area Cumberland, Gloucester and Ocean counties. Some Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, state: testing is under these general advisories have been tested. More but not all of the water bodies covered under way. (FDA) issued advice on eating shark and swordfish based on elevated levels of mercury (FDA) issued advice on eating shark and swordfish are women and of childbearing age who may become pregnant contamination. Pregnant advised by the FDA than one 7-ounce to not more to limit their consumption of shark and swordfish meal a month. For the general population, FDA advises that consumption of shark and swordfish than one 7-ounce meal per week. be limited to no more This information is based on a US and on average Agency June 1994 report Protection Environmental by the FDA. Based on this evidence, women of as reported levels in shark and swordfish mercury than one 8-ounce portion of shark or swordfish childbearing age would be advised to eat no more than twice a month every two months. The general population would be advised to eat shark no more under seven would be advised not to eat times a month. Children than three no more and swordfish at all. shark and swordfish may also consider discussing this matter with your family physician. You Services at (609) 588-3123.

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 27 Improvements to our Channel Catfish New Jersey Stocking Program State Federation of Bob Papson, Principal Fisheries Biologist Sportsmen’s Clubs, Inc. New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife’s already popular channel catfish program, which entails the stocking of approximately 90 waters statewide on a biennial basis with Organized May 24, 85,000 fingerlings, has undergone beneficial changes for stocking. 1935 Serving over 150,000 First, stocking rate guidelines in place since 1986 will be upgraded, providing a more members equitable distribution among lake size categories. Targeted will be small impoundments (2 to 74 acres) which comprise 78 percent of our waters and for which rates (number/acre) Gary Rogers NJSFSC Membership have varied tremendously. Rates will be based on 25 fish/acre, a reference point most com- Director monly used throughout the country. However, waters greater that 74 acres will receive P.O. Box 59 Pottersville, NJ 07979 incrementally reduced rates. The acreage will be based on the percentage of total acreage 908-439-9974 with optimal habitat (depths less than 15 feet), not on total acreage as previously used. NJSFSC Membership provides one million dollars of Second, at the Hackettstown hatchery, with the operation of the newly constructed inten- sportsmen insurance covers hunting, fishing, target shooting anywhere in U.S. or Canada. sive culture (inside tank culture) facility, production of channel catfish fingerlings will be more efficient. Fingerlings will be stocked at a larger size (7-inch average) and earlier in the Memberships: $25.00 includes monthly newspaper & insurance fall, allowing for greater survival. $14.00 monthly newspaper only.

Third, a portion of the annual channel catfish production (approximately 4,000) will be The Federation is a statewide, non-profit, non-government, non-partisan organization of New Jersey citi- raised throughout the winter in the new intensive culture building and stocked in the zens interested in the wise management of the state’s spring at a length greater than 12 inches. These larger fish are slated for lakes less than 11 natural resources, the conservation of its soils, acres in size, many of which are urban ponds. These smaller lakes are less likely to have waters, forests, fish, wildlife, and minerals, and the promotion of healthful outdoor recreation for all. quality sustainable sport fisheries. Large catfish will make a greater contribution to these fisheries, including the benefit of immediate harvest (put and take fishery). There is a www.NJSFSC.org statewide 12-inch minimum size limit for channel catfish. These lakes will be stocked every year to assure adequate numbers of available fish.

Improvements to our channel catfish stocking program will provide a more equitable distribution among lake size categories and optimal use of this hatchery product providing the greatest benefit to anglers. Hook A Winner Round Valley Reservoir Trout Study

New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife continues working on a coopera- tive project with Round Valley Trout Association. The Round Valley Trout Association, working with the Musky Trout Hatchery in Asbury, stocked a strain of rainbow trout known as kamloops into Round Program Valley Reservoir earlier this year. The Once again this year, the Division of Fish study is comparing the growth between and Wildlife will be jaw tagging more than the kamloops and the Wytheville strain 1,000 brook trout for release in New Jersey the Division stocks. If you capture a waters. If you are a lucky angler who lands tagged trout in Round Valley Reservoir one of these fish, send your name, address, and KEEP the fish, remove the tag and fish tag number and location of catch to the place it in the envelopes provided at the Pequest Trout Hatchery, 605 Pequest Road, tagging receptacle. Complete the infor- Oxford, NJ 07863, Attn: Hook a Winner mation on the outside of the envelope Program. In recognition of your catch, you will be mailed a certificate and award patch. and place the envelope in the lower box. In addition, your name will be forwarded to If you RELEASE the fish, DO NOT the New Jersey State Council of Trout REMOVE THE TAG. Your cooperation is Unlimited and entered into their drawing for critical to the success of the project. For one of 12 rod and reel combinations to be questions, contact the Lebanon Fisheries held during the celebration of National Laboratory at (908) 236-2118. Fishing Week.

28 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 2000 Pequest Trout Hatchery Production Jeff Matthews, Superintendent Pequest Open

The year 2000 was another banner year for trout production at the Pequest State Fish House Hatchery. A total of 715,425 brook, brown, and rainbow trout were distributed throughtout the state during the spring and fall stocking seasons. Since 1984 the hatchery has stocked 12,512,880 Free! quality trout in the waters of New Jersey. The Pequest rearing facility has consistently met its production goals since trout propagation was shifted from the Hackettstown Hatchery. The following are production numbers and sizes of March 31 & April 1, 2001 trout for 2000. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 2000 Spring Trout Stocking Summary Pequest Trout Hatchery & Natural Total Fish 599,305 Total Pounds 284,623 Resource Education Center Production Broodstock R.t 46, Oxford, nine miles west of Hackettstown Rainbow 240,860 Fish Rainbow 2,135 Fish 105,556 Pounds 3,760 Pounds 10.7" 16.2" Meet New Jersey Division of Fish & Brown 120,245 Fish Brown 2,010 Fish Wildlife biologists, staff and volunteers. 58,525 Pounds 5,222 Pounds 10.5" 17.5" View our state-of-the-art Brook 232,275 Fish Brook 1,780 Fish electrofishing boat and fish sampling 106,422 Pounds 5,138 Pounds equipment. 10.6" 17.1"

2000 Fall Trout Distribution Experience this wildlife and sporting- # Fish Pounds Size related event in scenic Warren County Rainbow Trout 60,080 20,967 9.8" Production Tour the trout hatchery or feed the Rainbow Trout 1,415 4,033 19.3" fish at the fishing education pond. Broodstock There is something for people of all Rainbow Trout Surplus 12,540 1,265 6.5” ages and outdoor interests. Bring Brown Trout Surplus 12,085 798 5.4” the whole family!

Brook Trout Surplus 16,425 1,380 6.2”

Sea Run Brown Trout Program * Rockport Pheasant farm Display * “Living History” encampment # Fish Pounds Size * Conservation organization booths * Wildlife artists Sea Run Brown Trout 29,205 8,550 8.8” *Youth air rifle & archery shooting ranges (Manasquan River) For more information, visit our website at www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 29 New Acquisitions Provide More Access for Anglers By Walter S. Murawski, Supervising Biologist

Several new fishing access areas were recently assigned to the Division of Fish and Wildlife by the Green Acres Program. These sites expand the opportunities where New Jersey anglers can enjoy their sport while respecting private property. Parking at several of these locations has not yet been developed. Each of the following new access areas is located on a stream site:

•On the South Branch of the Raritan River, a 423 acre parcel of property bor- dering Hunterdon and Somerset counties was assigned to the division by Green Acres. Leased to Hunterdon County, it will be part of the Raritan River Greenway, South Branch Reservation, Three Bridges Section, where angling will be permitted. The entrance area is located on Hunterdon County Rt. 613 in Three Bridges, Raritan Township. •On the Pequest River in Belvidere, several sections have been added on Race St. beginning about 0.1 mile from Pequest Rd. and extending down stream. These areas are normally stocked by the Division of Fish and Continue the Wildlife. •On the upper South Branch of the Raritan River, new access has been obtained through the acquisition of a 125 acre property in Washington Tradition Township, Morris County. This property, named South Branch Wildlife Become a Hunter Education Management Area, is located on Bartley Road between Four Bridges and Bartley, about 0.1 mile downstream of the industrial complex. Instructor •On the Musconetcong River in Mansfield Township, Warren County, the The Division’s Hunter Education old Tri-County Fire House property is now a division access area. Providing direct stream access to a popular stretch of the river, it is located at mile Unit is now accepting applications for marker 18 on Route 57. instructors. Call 609-629-0552 and •On the upper Paulinskill River, a fishing access section has been purchased by Green Acres and assigned to the division. It is located in Hampton leave your name and address. An Township, on County Route 519 about 4.5 miles north of Newton. application will be mailed to you. Or visit our website: www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw New Jersey’s FREE Fishing Days are Saturday and Sunday, June 2 & 3, 2001

On these two days residents and non-residents may fish the public waters of New Jersey without a license or trout stamp. All other regulations apply.

30 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST Species Spotlight: The Gizzard Shad By Hugh M. Carberry, Principal Fisheries Biologist

Gizzard shad, Dorosoma cepedianum, also known as mud shad, are members of the herring family (Clupeidae) that includes American shad and river herring. Unlike their cousins, gizzard shad are not anadromous, living their entire lives in freshwater. Found in productive estuaries, lakes, and reservoirs throughout the state, gizzard shad are rarely caught by hook and line because they are herbivorous. Those hooked are usually inadvertently snagged by an angler.

Identification Gizzard shad can be distinguished from others in the herring family by a threadlike projection found at the back of their dorsal fin. Adults generally range in size from 6 - 8 inches but seldom exceed 15 inches. Their body is gray to blue on the back fading to silver on the sides. The bottom side is pearl in color and has a sharply serrated keel. Like most members of the herring family, gizzard shad have a forked tail and a dark spot behind the upper part of the gill slit. Another distinguishing characteristic of gizzard shad is an extremely muscular stomach that resem- bles that of a chicken’s gizzard.

Spawning o Gizzard shad spawn during the spring when water temperatures reach 66-75 F. Spawning activity occurs at night or early morning in open water. Spawning sites are typically shallow, in close proximity to sand, gravel or vegetation. One ripe female can extrude as many as 300,000 eggs. Following fertilization, the highly adhesive eggs attach to the first thing they touch. Incubation time is temperature dependent but usually takes about three days.

Larval Development After hatching out, larval gizzard shad absorb their yolk sack. On the fifth day, they eat for the first time. Their main food source is young animal plank- ton (zooplankton). Young gizzard shad grow rapidly and migrate to pelagic areas (near the surface of open lake areas). At this life stage they range from the surface down to the cooler thermocline (a sharp change in water temperature), although their horizontal and vertical movements change in response to water elevation, turbidity, and storms.

Adults Adult gizzard shad are completely herbivorous, feeding on bottom microscopic plants (phytoplankton) and periphyton (small attached plants). The fine gill rakers of gizzard shad are used to strain water to catch food. Given that adult gizzard shad exist entirely on vegetative material, they form an important role in the food chain, converting plant material into fish flesh. Although gizzard shad can live upwards of 10 to 13 years, their normal life span is 7 years. Adult gizzard shad are subject to pronounced seasonal movement patterns. In the spring, summer, and fall, gizzard shad are found in shallower portions of a lake, at night seeking out shoreline cover. When morning arrives, gizzard shad leave these areas, moving to deeper sections of the waterbody where they roam throughout the day. During the winter, gizzard shad moving to deeper sections of the lake where they continue to roam. This is where warmer water is found throughout the winter months. Gizzard shad are extremely sensitive to cold water.

Gizzard Shad Die-Offs Gizzard shad are an environmentally sensitive fish, subject to massive spring and winter die-offs. In the spring, stresses associated with spawning behavior lower their tolerance to infections from common water bacteria. Gizzard shad are also susceptible to winter die-offs due to their inability to tolerate cold water.

Abundance Gizzard shad, when present in a waterbody, are often the most abundant fish species by weight, comprising as much 45 percent of the total fish biomass. Depending on the lake’s water quality, gizzard shad density can range from 100 to 300 pounds per acre. In an extremely productive waterbody it can be as high as 800 pounds per acre.

Fisheries Management Issues While gizzard shad play an important role in converting plant mass into fish biomass, they are highly prolific and grow rapidly. If not kept in check by larger predatory fishes such as largemouth bass and chain pickerel, they can dominate the fishery. One adverse impact which could result includes competition with juvenile panfish and gamefish that also feed on zooplankton during their early life history. Additionally, gizzard shad, where not kept in check, can grow up to 15 inches in total length. At that size, largemouth bass and chain pickerel cannot utilize them as forage. As a means of correcting this scenario, the Division of Fish and Wildlife may stock a larger predator such as northern pike or tiger muskie, creating a biological control for gizzard shad. This management strategy benefits anglers in pursuit of those popular sportfish.

References

Price, Steve. 1994. “Understanding Baitfish Movements”, Bassmaster Magazine. Volume 27, # 7, July- August. 102 p.

Raasch, S. Maynard. 1997. “Delaware’s Freshwater and Brackish-Water Fishes”.Dover Litho Printing Co., Dover Delaware. 174 p.

Scott, W.B. and Crossman, E. J. 1973. Freshwater Fishes of Canada Bulletin 184. Fisheries Research Board of Canada, Ottawa. 966 p.

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 31 Don’t Miss The Tenth Sea Run Brown Annual Governor’s Trout Program Surf Fishing Tournament by Mark Boriek, Principal Fisheries Biologist October 2000 marked the fourth annual stocking of this five-year sea run brown trout program. A This year’s tournament will be held Sunday, October 7th total of 110,645 eight-inch brown trout have been at Island Beach State Park. Last year, more than 1,000 adults stocked in the tidal freshwater and brackish portions of the Manasquan River. We anticipate these and children registered for the event. The tournament generated trout will migrate out of the estuary for one to two more than $10,000 in registration fees which will be used for a years, taking advantage of the abundant forage in the coastal waters. They will grow to a size of two variety of conservation projects such as the construction of a to four pounds or larger, then return to the freshwa- beach access ramp, mobile fishing education carts and special- ter Manasquan in the fall of the year. Although it is doubtful the existing water quality and habitat will ized wheelchairs for the disabled and elderly. The goal of the support successful reproduction, the urge to spawn tournament is to foster a life-long commitment to marine conser- will concentrate these fish in the freshwater portion vation and the sport of surf fishing. The winner of the 2000 of the Manasquan River creating an exciting new fishery. Governorís Cup was Joe Earley of Toms River, New Jersey with To date there have been twelve confirmed catches a 32 5/8” striped bass. The Division would like to thank the fol- of sea run browns in freshwater and five in saltwater. The largest, caught in the Manasquan River lowing organizations for their contribution to the Ninth Annual near the Garden State Parkway bridge, weighed Governorís Surf Fishing Tournament: Atco Sports, Auto Parts & seven pounds, one ounce and was 23 inches long. It had the characteristic silvery color and deep body Sporting Goods of Woodbridge, Baker Manufacturing Co., Bimi of a sea run trout. Additionally, its clipped adipose Bay Outfitters Ltd., Brielle Bait & Tackle, Buck Knives Inc., Bullet fin indicated that it had been stocked in October 1997. Weights, Cabela’s, Charlie Brewer’s Slider Co. Inc., Clarke’s The Ernest Schweibert and Jersey Shore Chapters Marine Supply Inc., Coleman Company, Delorme Mapping, F.J. of Trout Unlimited provided financial support and Neil, Frank’s Boat Rentals, G. Loomis Inc., Gifford Marine Inc., assisted in clipping the adipose fin of this year’s fish. Anglers are requested to report all catches of Imperial Schrade Corp., Leatherman Tool Group Inc., Luhr sea run brown trout to (908) 236-2118 or (908) 637- Jensen & Sons, Manns Boat Co., Morrison’s Seafood Inc., Orvis 4173 (Paramus), Outdoor Technologies Group, Penn Fishing Tackle Mfg. Company, Rays Sport Shop Inc. (N. Plainfield), Scott’s Bait & Tackle, Sportsman’s Outfitters, Ultimus Lures, Water Gremlin SEA RUN BROWN Co., Wetlands Institute, Woolrich Inc., Wright & McGill Co. and YBC.For more information and registration forms contact: TROUT Division of Fish and Wildlife, 605 Pequest Rd., Oxford, NJ 07863 or call 908-637-4125.

The New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife has stocked brown trout in the lower Manasquan River. Fishermen are asked to report all catches of brown trout in tidal waters. These fish tend to develop a more silvery coloration, masking most of the body spots, after an extended time in salt water.

The future of this program depends on these fish being caught and reported. WE NEED YOUR COOPERATION

Call the Pequest State Fish Hatchery (908) 637-4173 or Lebanon Fisheries Lab (908) 236-2118

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 33 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA REGULATIONS

Regulations for use of these areas are established Dog Training and Exercising license. Boat Ramp Maintenance Permits may be by the Division of Fish and Wildlife with penalties of Dogs may only be trained between Sept. 1 and purchased for a fee of $15.00 from division offices not less than $50 nor more than $200. Apr. 30. Some areas with designated dog training at the Pequest Trout Hatchery Natural Resource Information on these regulations and permit appli- areas allow dog training all year. All dogs must be Education Center, Northern, Central and cations may be obtained by writing to the Division of licensed according to state law. Sourthern Region, Nacote Creek, Bivalve, Fish and Wildlife, PO Box 400, Trenton, NJ 08625- Outboard Motors Tuckahoe, Lebanon and Trenton offices. Boat 0400. Only electric motors are allowed on freshwater Ramp Maintenance Permits may also be pur- The division may revoke any permit or other areas with the exception of Union Lake where out- chased through the mail from N.J. Division of Fish authorization issued for violation or due cause. board motors not exceeding 10 hp. may be used. On and Wildlife, PO Box 400, Trenton, N.J. 08625, Att: Boat Ramp Permit. THE FOLLOWING ARE PROHIBITED: CAMP- Prospertown Lake, only manually operated boats and ING; SWIMMING; PICNICKING; DUMPING; CUT- canoes are allowed. 1. Round Valley Angler Access TING OR DAMAGING VEGETATION; ALCOHOLIC Horseback Riding 2. Kingwood BEVERAGES AND FIRES. This is allowed only on designated WMAs with 3. Assunpink Restricted Hours written permission from the Division of Fish and 4. Dennis Creek Wildlife Management Areas are closed from 9 p.m. Wildlife. For horseback riding permit information, 5. Tuckahoe until 5 a.m. unless engaged in lawful hunting, fishing call 609-259-2132. 6. Mad Horse Creek or trapping activities. Rental of Division Facilities 7. Union Lake 8. Menantico Ponds Special permission may be granted for division Use of clubhouses or other facilities for outings, 9. Prospertown Lake approved activities. trap shoots, or other events will be authorized at a fee Motor Vehicles of $100.00 per day; use for meeting purposes will be WMA Maps No person shall operate an unregistered vehicle on permitted at a $50.00 daily fee. Maps and information on lands administered by the Division of Fish and Wildlife roads under the control of the Division of Fish and Fishing Tournament Photocopied WMA maps on USGS base available Wildlife. All motor vehicles are restricted to estab- Any club or organization that would like to use free. lished public roads and parking areas. division Wildlife Management Areas for fishing tour- State which individual maps you desire. Target Practice naments must secure a permit from the division. An application must be submitted along with a $17.00 fee NJ Div. Fish & Wildlife Only bow and arrow, shotgun, muzzleloading to obtain a use permit for boat launches. Applications P.O. Box 400 shotgun, muzzleloading rifle and .22 caliber rimfire will be accepted in January at the division’s Trenton Trenton NJ 08625 rifle shooting is allowed in designated hunter training office. 609-984-0547 ranges according to posted regulations at the training A statewide “Wild Places & Open Spaces” map is area. Other target practice is allowed only with per- Boat Ramp Maintenance Permit available for $4 (includes first class postage) by mission from the Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife. Any vehicle used to transport or launch a vessel or writing to: water conveyance on the following WMAs must have Field Trials NJ Div. Fish & Wildlife affixed to the lower corner of the driver’s side rear Permits for use of Wildlife Management Areas for Wild Places Map window a Boat Ramp Maintenance Permit or appli- running of field trials may be granted by the division. P.O. Box 400 cant’s copy from a valid hunting, fishing or trapping Trenton NJ 08625 609-292-9450

34 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST New Jersey State Record Freshwater Sportfish

Species Lbs. Oz. Year Angler Where Caught Bass, largemouth 10 14 1980 Robert Eisele Menantico Sand Wash Pond Bass, rock 1 5 1982 Eric Avogardo Saddle River Bass, smallmouth 7 2 1990 Carol Marciniak Round Valley Reservoir Bluegill 3 0 1990 Dom Santarelli Farm Pond in Pennington Bowfin 8 4 1988 Craig Raffay Lake Tranquility Bullhead, brown 4 8 1997 Gary Schmidt Lake of Woods, Ft. Dix Carp 47 0 1995 Billy Friedman South Branch of Raritan River Carp (archery) 42 1 1987 John Puchalik Delaware River Carp, grass **Vacant** (Minimum Weight 30 Lbs.) Carp, grass (archery) 49 3 1996 George Vash Delaware Raritan Canal Catfish, channel 33 3 1978 Howard Hudson Lake Hopatcong Catfish, white 10 5 1976 Lewis Lomerson Raritan River Crappie, black 4 8 1996 Andy Tintle Pompton Lake Crappie, white 2 10 1997 Bobby Barnard Riverview Beach Pk., Pennsville Eel, American 6 2 1994 James Long Round Valley Reservoir Muskellunge 42 13 1997 Bob Neals Monksville Reservoir Muskie, tiger 29 0 1990 Larry Migliarese Delaware River **Perch, white 3 1 1989 Edward Tango Forest Hill Lake Perch, yellow 2 6 1989 Gene Engels Holiday Lake *Perch, yellow 4 4 1865 Charles Abbott Crosswicks Creek *Pickerel, chain 9 3 1957 Frank McGovern Lower Aetna Lake Pickerel, redfin 1 13 1982 Gerald Humphrey Lake Assunpink Pike, Northern 30 2 1977 Herb Hepler Spruce Run Reservoir *Salmon (landlocked) 8 0 1951 John Mount New Wawayanda Lake Shad, American 11 1 1984 Charles Mower Delaware River Striped Bass 35 0 1995 Patrick Lilly Delaware River Striped Bass, hybrid 16 4 1999 Bill Schmidt Culvers Lake Sunfish, pumpkinseed 1 8 1987 Daryl Donalson Farm Pond in Burlington County Trout, brook 7 3 1995 Andrew DuJack Rockaway River Trout, brown 21 6 1995 Lenny Saccente Round Valley Reservoir Trout, lake 24 14 1994 Carl Bird Round Valley Reservoir Trout, rainbow 13 0 1988 Gene Rutkoski Lake Hopatcong Walleye 13 9 1993 George Fundell Delaware River

* Denotes historical record ** Denotes fish has been certified by the IGFA as a world record For information concerning the New Jersey State Record Fish programs, contact the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 400, Trenton, NJ 08625-0400.

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 35 36 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 37 Skillful Angler Awards Program By Walter S. Murawski, Supervising Biologist

The Skillful Anglers Program is designed to supplement ANGLER WATER WEIGHT the New Jersey State Record Fish listing by recognizing that Gary Gromack Manasquan R. 3lb 12oz many anglers catch both freshwater and marine fish, which James Hammerstone Pequest R. 3lb 12oz Jeff D. Johac Metedeconk R. S/Br. 3lb 8oz may not be of record size, but nonetheless are of sufficient Edward J. Krucinski Jr. Rowands Pd. 3lb 11oz size and weight to have tested the anglers skill and thus be Jeffrey Marquard Manasquan R. 3lb 8oz worthy of recognition. James Shumard Jr. Manasquan R. 3lb 14oz Fisherman qualifying for a Skillful Anglers Award receive Brown Trout a signed certificate attesting to their achievement along with Joe Krainatz Jr. Pequest R. 8lb 4oz a bronze pin suitable to be worn on a fishing hat, jacket, etc. Only one pin and one certificate will be awarded per indi- Black Crappie vidual for each species which qualifies. Wm W. Domanow Spruce Run Res. 2lb 10oz Ashli Nieves Malaga Lk. 2lb 0oz At the end of each year, special recognition is given to the George Talnagi Assunpink Lk. 2lb 3oz anglers who caught the largest fish in each of the species Mike Wydra Menantico Pd. 2lb 15oz - ‘00 categories. The winners of these categories are presented Mike Wydra Union Lk. 3lb 3oz - ‘99 with a Special Award recognizing their accomplishments as Wm. Phillips Assunpink Lk. 2lb 5oz the best of New Jersey's Skillful Anglers. Carp The procedure to obtain an award is easy. Fill out an Richard Torgun Delaware R. 35lb 9oz application and have the fish weighed at a commercial Mike Wydra Maurice R. 26lb 0oz establishment having a certified scale and have the propri- Chain Pickerel etor sign the form testifying to the weight. All applications Robert Brower Farrington Lk. 5lb 7oz must be submitted within 30 days of catching the fish. Michael Fagan Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 6oz A brochure explaining the details of the program can be Amelia Fernandez Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 0oz obtained from any division office, or by calling us at (908) Brad Garie Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 11oz Michael E. Golabek Round Valley Res. 7lb 0oz 637-4125, or writing to us at NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife, Paul A. Gonzalez Round Valley Res. 6lb 0oz 605 Pequest Rd., Oxford NJ 07863. Bob Hunter Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 11oz The minimum weight required to win a Skillful Angler Harold Mabee Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 5oz Award for the various species are as follows: Wm. Mayfield Jr. Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 8oz Wm Mayfield III Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 1oz Largemouth bass ...... 6 pounds Frank C. Moyer Imlaystown Lk 4lb 11oz Smallmouth bass ...... 4 pounds Wm. Phillips Assunpink Lk. 4lb 0oz Striped bass hybrid ...... 8 pounds Michael Santoli Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 6oz Carp ...... 25 pounds Bill Schmidt Culver Lk. 4lb 5oz Robert Shimonovich Assunpink Lk. 4lb 6oz Channel catfish...... 9 pounds George Talnagi Assunpink Lk 4lb 10oz Crappie ...... 2 pounds Richard Torgun Union Lk. 5lb 2oz Muskellunge (incl. Tiger) ...... 20 pounds Mark Walker Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 14oz Chain pickerel...... 4 pounds Joe Tekula Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 9oz Northern pike ...... 10 pounds Channel Catfish American shad ...... 7 pounds Michael Biel Jr. Holmdel Park Pd. 18lb 8oz Brook trout ...... 3 pounds Ernest L. Goodman Weequahic Pk. Lk 11lb 0oz. Brown trout...... 8 pounds Bobby Hall Cohansey R. 9lb 1oz Wm. Phillips Assunpink Lk. 10lb 11oz Lake trout ...... 8 pounds Tom Ryder Assunpink Lk. 9lb 80z Rainbow trout...... 5 pounds Philip Sargent Lower Sylvan Lk. 15lb 1oz Walleye ...... 5 pounds George Talnagi Assunpink Lk 11lb 4oz Wm. Tomasko Carnegie Lk. 13lb 6oz Bill Wurfel Assunpink Lk. 11lb 4oz Freshwater Awards received by anglers through Douglass Zielaznicki Millstone R. 10lb 0oz October 15th, 2000 are as follows : Wm. Phillips Assunpink Lk. 11lb 13oz

Lake Trout Walter Neumann Round Valley Res. 12lb 6oz ANGLER WATER WEIGHT Largemouth Bass Brook Trout Chris Bell Private pond 7lb 0oz Ray Adkins, Vineland Mary Elmer Lk. 3lb. 11oz Patrick Ferraro White Meadow Lk. 6lb 8oz Ricky J. Anania Raritan R. S/Br 3lb. 5oz Wm E. Lewis Mercer Lk. 6lb 3oz James Barron D&R Canal 4lb 1oz Tim Mackey Hammonton Lk. 6lb 13oz Bryan Bittenmaster Pequest R. 3lb 8oz Evan Mann Manasquan Res. 6lb 2oz Darrell Bittenmaster Pequest R. 3lb 15oz Tom Ryder Assunpink Lk. 6lb 13oz Kathy Deleeuw Lk. Shenandoah 5lb 4oz Bill Wurfel Assunpink Lk. 6lb 6oz Myron Gelber Pequest R. 3lb 6oz

38 NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST ANGLER WATER WEIGHT Mike Wydra Union Lk. 7lb 2oz Larry Woodburn Lk. Hopatcong 6lb 0oz Application for Recognition as a Muskellunge New Jersey Skillful Angler Frank Gawenus Delaware R. 26lb 8oz

Northern Pike Name ______Age ___ Don Geiss Jr. Picattiny Lk. 19lb 4oz Brent Hann Budd Lk. 14lb 12oz Address ______

Rainbow Trout City ______Zip ______Judy Neff Pequest R. 5lb 8oz Telephone ______E-mail ______Smallmouth Bass David Au Merrill Cr. Res. 5lb. 6oz Fish Species (subject to verification by state biologist) Kevin Dempsey Lk. Hopatcong 4lb. 1oz Tony Drumright Monksville Res. 4lb 0oz Weight ______lbs. ______oz. Length ______Eugene Duffner Monksville Res. 4lb 12oz Bill Wurfel Monmouth Co. Pd. 4lb 5oz Girth ______Date Caught** ______Dan Kinsey Lk. Hopatcong 4lb 1oz Where ______Striped Bass Hybrid Joe Destafano Lk. Hopatcong 8lb 15oz Time ______Gary Destafano Lk. Hopatcong 8lb 0oz John Fiorella Lk. Hopatcong 8lb 1oz Caught from: ____ boat ____ shore _____ surf Dominic Sarinelli Lk. Hopatcong 10lb 5oz Bill Schmidt Culver Lk. 16lb 4oz _____ jetty ______other (specify) Dennis Tarnowski Lk. Hopatcong 8lb 11oz James P. Smith Lk. Hopatcong 8lb 9oz Captain ______

Tiger Muskellunge Boat Name ______Tyler Wackermann Oxford Furnace Lk. 24lb 15oz Line Test used ______Reel ______Walleye Alen Amey Delaware R. 7lb. 6oz Type of Rod ______Bill Haase Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 12oz Charles McBride Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 2oz Lure ______Daniel Pryor Delaware R. 5lb 2oz ______Chris Rossi Delaware R. 12lb 0oz Dominic Sarinelli Lk. Hopatcong 6lb 15oz Certification Jenna Sarinelli Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 4oz Joseph Scarangello Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 5oz Fish measured and weighed by ______Dennis Tarnowski Lk. Hopatcong 6lb 0oz Steve Wachtel Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 9oz ______Joe Welsh Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 8oz Andrew Zurawski Delaware R. 10lb 5oz Establishment’s Address ______Nick Bevaqua Lk. Hopatcong 6lb 10oz Frank Bajnoczy Lk. Hopatcong 5lb 14oz ______

Telephone ______

Signature ______

I hereby certify this fish was caught in New Jersey waters in accordance with state laws and regulations, and that this fish was weighed on a certified scale.

______Northern Pike Applicant’s Signature Date

**All applications must be submitted within 30 days of catching the fish.

Mail application to: NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife, Skillfull Angler Awards Program, P.O. Box 400, Trenton, NJ 08625-0400

NEW JERSEY Fish & Wildlife DIGEST 39