(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Vincent Mazzeo and Bob Andrzejczak to spur interest in fishing and other sportsman licenses was signed into law on Monday.
The new law (A-4025) creates an annual New Jersey resident and nonresident “Fishing Buddy License” and amends state law for all-around sportsman and fishing licenses.
“Fishing is a favorite past time for many New Jersey families,” said Mazzeo (D-Atlantic). “Reduced rates for licenses will encourage more residents to enjoy the fishing experiences the state has to offer and encourage an appreciation for New Jersey’s fishing and wildlife.”
The “Fishing Buddy License” provides the financial incentive of half-priced fishing licenses together with an existing angler. The new law also provides that the fee for the “All Around Sportsman License” will be reduced by $10 for each “fishing buddy” who buys that license.
“From surf fishing to ice fishing, trout streams to bass lakes, New Jersey is known for its wide variety of fishing opportunities,” said Andrzejczak (D-Cape May/Atlantic/Cumberland). “This new law is a chance to renew interest in fishing as a sport while creating an additional revenue stream for the industry.”
The measure was released by the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee in March and approved by the full Assembly 76-0 in June.