This is the last chance to apply for the 2016 Striped Bass Bonus Program (SBBP). No new applications will be processed after Monday, October 31.
All 2015 permit holders must reapply to receive a 2016 permit. The number of permits issued will be limited at the Division’s discretion based on harvest reports and other factors to ensure the 2016 quota is not exceeded.
Effective September 1 through December 31, 2016, the SBBP regulations are one fish from 24 inches to less than 28 inches. Bonus harvest reporting is mandatory and must be reported within 24 hours of harvest. New Jersey’s recreational striped bass regulations for all registered anglers in state waters are one fish 28 inches to less than 43 inches, and one fish of 43 inches or greater. If using a bonus tag for the SBBP fish, please note that the order of fish harvested doe not matter.
To apply and for more information visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/bonusbas.htm – allow 2 to 4 weeks for processing due to the high volume of applications. You can also call 609-748-2074.
New Jersey is allocated a commercial harvest quota of striped bass under the Striped Bass Interstate Fisheries Management Plan as administered by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). Since New Jersey does not allow netting or sale of striped bass, this quota was transferred to the recreational fishing sector resulting in the origin of the SBBP.
The current allocation from ASMFC is 215,912 pounds to be distributed between individual anglers and party/charter boats. Should NJ overshoot this quota in 2016, any overage would be subtracted from the 2017 quota. Although this program does allow for the harvest of an additional striped bass for New Jersey anglers, the Division encourages catch and release whenever possible.
The Division of Fish and Wildlife initiated the program in 1990 to allow the harvest of an additional striped bass for New Jersey recreational anglers. Although the program has been modified throughout the years, the main goal of the SBBP is to allow anglers to participate in the management process while enjoying their favorite recreational pastime. It is a popular program and provides valuable data for assessing stock status and fishing trends, making it an integral part of New Jersey’s striped bass management.
If you require additional information concerning this program or any other striped bass issue, please contact the Division’s Nacote Creek office at 609-748-2020 or [email protected].
