For 37 years the Division of Fish and Wildlife has been recognizing the talents of New Jersey anglers who catch fish of “not quite record” size, but large enough to have tested the angler’s skill and be worthy of recognition. The program also recognizes our newest anglers with its “First Fish” category. New anglers of any age can commemorate their first successful catch with a certificate from the Division.
For more experienced anglers the program recognizes trophy catches of 43 different freshwater and marine fish species in addition to Specialist, Master and Elite Angler categories. Help promote the excellent fishing opportunities that exist throughout the Garden State by submitting your qualifying catch!
The Leader Board identifies anglers with the current largest fish (weight or length) for both freshwater and saltwater. The list is updated regularly as new submissions/leaders are verified.
Beginning in 2018 submitting an application became easier than ever as applications and photo(s) can be e-mailed. Anglers submitting qualifying catches will receive a certificate and qualifier patch. Winners will also receive a certificate and Skillful Angler Winner patch.
The Skillful Angler Program has four divisions:
Adult – based on weight
Junior (under 16) – based on weight
Catch and Release – based on length
First Fish – First fish ever caught, of any species of any size, by any angler regardless of age
In addition to individual species the program also recognizes anglers who catch several qualifying fish in three categories:
- Specialist Angler – catch five qualifying fish of the same species within one calendar year
- Master Angler – catch five qualifying fish of five different species (saltwater and/or freshwater) within one calendar year
- Elite Angler – catch 10 or more qualifying fish (saltwater and/or freshwater) within one calendar year
Anglers meeting the above requirements will receive a special patch and certificate documenting their angling skill
See full details here: https://www.njfishandwildlife.com/skflang.htm?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
