The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and its Division of Fish & Wildlife (NJDEP Fish & Wildlife) said it is receiving recent reports of Atlantic sturgeon sightings in local waterways, prompting a reminder to anglers and members of the public.
The Atlantic sturgeon is a federally protected species under the Endangered Species Act, and it is illegal to possess, harm, or harass them in any way – whether the fish is alive or dead. Do not attempt to handle, remove, or interact with sturgeon, and should you accidentally catch one while fishing you must release it immediately and unharmed if.
If you see a sturgeon – alive, stranded, or deceased – you are asked to report the sighting immediately to NJDEP Fish & Wildlife at 609-748-2020. You can also file a report online at the NJ Marine Protected Species Reporter application. You can also email NOAA Fisheries at sturg911@noaa.gov.
If possible, take photos from a safe distance and note the exact location (GPS coordinates if available), date, and time of the sighting. NJDEP Fish & Wildlife thanks the public and the angling community for your cooperation, which is critical to the protection and recovery of this ancient and endangered species. Learn more about the Atlantic sturgeon online at the NJDEP Fish & Wildlife website.
