As an avid angler, you may be wondering if you can use your Pennsylvania fishing license to fish in New Jersey’s waters, particularly in the Delaware River, which borders both states. The good news is that New Jersey and Pennsylvania have a reciprocal agreement that allows anglers to fish in the Delaware River using either state’s fishing license.
Reciprocal Agreement for Fishing the Delaware River
According to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, New Jersey and Pennsylvania fishing licenses are both recognized when fishing the Delaware River from a boat or either shoreline. This applies to the main stem of the river only. Anglers may launch a boat from either shore and, upon return, may possess any fish that may be legally taken according to the regulations of the state where the landing is made.
It’s important to note that the reciprocal agreement only applies to the Delaware River. If you plan to fish in other New Jersey waters, you will need a valid New Jersey fishing license.
Fishing Regulations on the Delaware River
While you can use either a New Jersey or Pennsylvania fishing license on the Delaware River, you must comply with the fishing regulations of the state in which you are fishing. If you are fishing between the centerline of the river and the New Jersey shoreline, you must follow New Jersey’s fishing regulations. If you are fishing between the centerline of the river and the Pennsylvania shoreline, you must follow Pennsylvania’s fishing regulations.
Some key regulations to keep in mind when fishing the Delaware River include:
- No more than three rods, each with one line, or two hand lines—or one of each—may be used. No more than three single hooks or three treble hooks per line.
- To protect spawning striped bass, from the Calhoun Street bridge near Trenton downstream to the Commodore Barry Bridge at Bridgeport, non-offset circle hooks must be used when using bait with a #2 sized hook or larger, from April 1 to May 30.
- Spears (not mechanically propelled) and bow and arrows may be used to take shad, eel, carp, sucker, herring and bullhead except within 825 feet of an eel weir.
- Baitfish may be taken and possessed for personal use and are not to be bartered or sold.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with both New Jersey and Pennsylvania’s fishing regulations before heading out on the Delaware River to ensure you are in compliance.
Purchasing a Fishing License
If you need to purchase a fishing license, both New Jersey and Pennsylvania offer convenient options. In New Jersey, you can buy your fishing license online, by phone, or from a licensed agent. In Pennsylvania, you can purchase your license in person from over 1,300 vendors across the state, online, or by phone.
When purchasing your license, be sure to have your social security number on hand, as it is required when applying for a Pennsylvania fishing license or permit.
Exemptions and Discounts
Both New Jersey and Pennsylvania offer exemptions and discounts for certain anglers. In New Jersey, the following individuals are exempt from needing a fishing license:
- Anglers under 16 years of age
- Anglers fishing on their own private lakes or ponds
- Anglers fishing with a fishing tournament license
- Anglers fishing with a free disabled person’s license
Pennsylvania also offers discounted or free licenses for certain anglers, such as seniors, disabled individuals, and youth.
Whether you are a resident of New Jersey or Pennsylvania, or a visitor to the area, the Delaware River offers a wealth of fishing opportunities. By understanding the reciprocal agreement between the two states and familiarizing yourself with the fishing regulations, you can enjoy a successful and legal fishing trip in 2024 and beyond.