Skillful Angler Awards Program

The Skillful Angler Awards Program is designed both to supplement the New Jersey Record Fish Program and to acknowledge that many anglers catch freshwater and marine fish that are not record size, but are still worthy of recognition because the size and weight of the fish sufficiently tested the angler’s skill. Open to resident and non-resident anglers. All fish must be caught in New Jersey waters using a hook and line during legally open seasons. It is comprised of three categories: Adult (for anglers age 16 and older), Junior (under age 16) and Catch and Release (based on length). A clear, side-view photo that allows accurate species identification must be included with each application.

Take time to compose a good quality (and high resolution) photo to submit with your application. The best photo may be selected for publication in this Digest next year! Include your e-mail address on back of the photo so we may contact you for a digital copy of your print.

Anglers qualifying for a Skillful Angler award receive a certificate as a testament to their achievement. Anglers may submit applications for larger fish caught even after receiving a certificate.

At the end of the year, special recognition is given to anglers who catch the largest fish in each species category. The winner of each category is sent a special certificate recognizing his/her accomplishment as the best of New Jersey’s Skillful Anglers.

Fish must be measured from the tip of the nose (with mouth closed) to the tip of the tail. For catch and release categories, the fish must be measured alongside a ruler. For Adult/Junior categories, fish must be weighed and measured by fishing license agents, tackle shops or authorized Fish and Wildlife fisheries biologists.

Regulations in red are new this year.

Purple text indicates an important note.