Health Advisory
Last Updated: May 11, 2026
Eating Fish and Crabs Caught In New Jersey Waters
Fishing provides enjoyable and relaxing recreation. Fish are an excellent source of protein and other nutrients and play a role in maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet. Many anglers enjoy cooking and eating their own catch. However, elevated levels of potentially harmful chemical contaminants such as dioxin, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides and mercury have been found in certain fish and crabs in some New Jersey waters. Fish consumption advisories have been adopted to guide citizens on safe consumption practices.
To reduce exposure to harmful chemical contaminants when preparing and eating the fish species taken from the identified waters, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided. The DEP encourages anglers to review the Fish Smart–Eat Smart NJ website for guidance on eating recreationally caught fish and crabs, including current state and federal marine fish consumption advisories.
Try the Interactive Map!
One click on the waterbody where you fish provides access to current health advisories on the Fish Smart–Eat Smart NJ website.
Attention Boaters
Keep Our Water Clean—Use Pumpouts
Ready To Serve Boaters! Visit marina pumpout facilities or contact one of the pumpout boats.
A complete list of operational pumpout facilities at marinas, along with information about pumpout boats, is available on the NJ Boating website.
Proper maintenance and operation of your on-board toilet and holding tank are critical to ensure they function properly.
- Always use sufficient water when flushing
- Use toilet paper designed for use in marine/RV systems
- Have your marina inspect your onboard toilet system to make sure it is operating properly
NJBoating.org provides information about New Jersey boat ramps, pumpout stations, boating access, and clean vessel program resources.
2026 Sedge Island Summer Programs
Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center is offering a variety of programs in the summer of 2026 for students, adults and families. Come connect with the beauty of Barnegat Bay while learning about salt marsh ecology through fishing, clamming, and discovering what's edible in the bay!
Visit the Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center page for program details, dates, and costs. or contact Karen Byrne.
Conservation Police and Regulation Information
Contact a NJDEP Fish & Wildlife Conservation Police office that serves the county where you hunt or fish.
- Northern Region — (908) 735-8240
(Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren counties) - Central Region — (609) 259-2120
(Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth and Ocean counties) - Southern Region — (856) 629-0555
(Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties) - Marine Region — (609) 748-2050
(coastal and bay areas) - To report violations anonymously call Operation Game Thief —
(855) OGT-TIPS
Become a Wildlife Habitat Supporter!
Did you know that NJDEP Fish & Wildlife manages more than 360,000 acres in 122 wildlife management areas throughout the state?
These spaces protect and conserve fish and wildlife habitat while providing opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, hunting, birding, wildlife viewing, hiking and more! You can help to ensure the conservation of these natural treasures for the enjoyment of generations to come by becoming a Wildlife Habitat Supporter and making a donation. Donations will be used to:
- Manage and restore fish and wildlife habitat.
- Enforce fish and wildlife regulations.
- Restore and protect endangered and nongame species.
- Fund fish and wildlife educational programs and more.
- Improve public access to recreational facilities on WMAs.
Get Your Collectible Decal Today!
Supporters who donate $25 or more receive a beautiful, first-edition collectible car decal.
