Spearfishing Category Added to Record Fish Program
Posted by njdiver on 7/30/2014, 2:31 pm
July 30, 2014
Recognizing that spearfishing is growing in popularity, and that "spear gun hunters" routinely harvest exceptional fish that equal or exceed current marine state records for rod and reel, the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife has created a new Spearfishing category in the State Record Fish Program. The spearfishing category was created to recognize spear fishers who have obtained a level of proficiency that allows them to harvest exceptional specimens.
The spearing of a fish, whether record size or not, requires extensive knowledge of fish behavior to complete a successful stalk; knowledge of spearfishing equipment, operation and rigging to insure a well-placed and effective shot; and skill in the water to successfully hunt and capture a large fish. No diver should engage in spearfishing without proper preparation and education, and should abort their hunt and seek safety in a time of danger while diving.
Spear fishing may be conducted by means of a spear, harpoon or other missile while completely submerged in the marine waters of the state for any species (except lobster) of legal size and during open seasons. Persons who fish with a spear for species with size limits are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure the fish meets the minimum size limits before being killed or injured.
There are specific rules and minimum weights for the Spearfishing category of the Record Fish Program. To view the rules and weights, see the application form at www.njfishandwildlife.com/pdf/recfishappspear.pdf (pdf, 67kb). To view the list of eligible fish, including the initial fish recognized, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/recfish-spear.htm.
Divers are reminded that the objective of the Record Fish Program is to increase the awareness of opportunities for species that are regularly sought after and routinely found off the coast of New Jersey.
Unfortunately, to get your fish recorded, you have to drive it down to Port Republic, NJ to have it's species identified by a State Marine Biologist. That certainly makes it difficult for a diver in North Jersey.
I guess if I speared at 45 lb fluke, I'd bring it down, but that big boy's getting old and stinky while it should be sitting in my frying pan.
New record fish are caught and entered in the program every year - a testament to the excellent condition of our fisheries resources and the anglers who enjoy them. Complete rules and instructions are found on the application forms. However, the following rules apply to both fresh and saltwater species:
New Jersey State records are determined by weight alone. There are no line classes.
Fish must be weighed on a certified scale as soon as possible. A copy of the current scale Registration Certificate and valid Inspection/Test Report issued by the County Office of Weights and Measures is required to achieve record fish status.
All fish must be identified by a division biologist.
A clear, side-view color photograph of the fish must be submitted. All photo entries become property of the Division of Fish and Wildlife and will not be returned.
Application MUST be submitted no later than one month after the date of catch.
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