WHAT: National Saltwater Angler Registry

WHEN: Registration will be required beginning Jan. 1 2010

WHO MUST REGISTER?
New Jersey anglers who fish in federal waters, or target or catch anadromous species (saltwater fish that spawn in freshwater) like river herring, shad or striped bass in any tidal waters.

WHY REGISTER?
Registration is the law It is also an important new tool for NOAA and anglers to help ensure the long term sustainability of saltwater fishing.

WHO IS EXEMPT?
Anglers who are under 16; only fish on federally licensed charter, party or guide boats; hold a Highly Migratory Species Angling permit; are fishing commercially under a valid license; or are already registered through an exempted state.

Is the future of fishing really in doubt?
With the data necessary to effectively manage fisheries in hand, NOAA has no doubt that our nation’s tradition of saltwater recreational fishing will continue into the future. It is true, however, that there are numerous pressures like pollution, climate change, and in some cases overfishing, which have made the work of fisheries managers – and the data they rely upon to do their work – more important than ever.

Must I register every year?
Yes.  Your registration is valid for one year from that date on which you registered. If you live in an “exempted state” – that is, a state that has its own saltwater fishing license and an agreement with NOAA to automatically register anglers – your National Saltwater Angler Registry will be renewed every time you renew your state fishing license.

I just decided I want to go fishing today.  Can I register and legally fish today?
Yes.  Registration only takes a few minutes on the telephone or Internet.  Simply write down the registration number you receive and take it with you when you go fishing to present to Law Enforcement if requested. Within 30 days, you will receive a permanent registration card in the mail.

HOW DO I REGISTER?
Starting Jan 1, 2010 go online at
www.countmyfish.noaa.gov or call
1-888-MRIP-411. Registration is FREE in 2010
1-888-6747-411

For more information please visit www.countmyfish.noaa.gov.