Do I need a NJ shellfish license to go crabbing?...

[John D.]

Been awhile since I went crabbing and am taking my 7 yr old on a boat rental in monmouth county for his first crabbing trip. I haven’t gone crabbing in a looong time. Is a license now required? If so, can I get and print online?

Thanks

[bulletbob]

https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/blueclaw.htm

The shellfish license is for clams/scallops/mussels etc.. It doesn't apply to blue crabs.

I think you need like a $2 permit if you are going to use pots for crabs, but not if you use handlines or box traps.. I will let the guys that go crabbing a lot answer for certain... I think the limit is one bushel.. bob

[ALS Mako]

No liscense required if you're using drop lines and collapsable traps. If using a Maryland style cage need a permit good for 2 traps. Permit is $2. Permit also covers the use of a trot line.

[Billfish715]

Check the legal size limits for any crabs you keep. The Fish and Game Conservation Officers have been known to patrol the Navesink River area and check the size of the crabs in people's baskets. It doesn't happen too often but they do keep things honest.

[John D.]

Thx would have been if needed license but wanted to make sure

[Capt. Debbie]

No females with egg sacks. Limit a bushel per person onboard. 4.5" hard shell. Shedder crabs( stripe on carapace) at 3.5" min measured side tip to side tip width.

No season dates.. all year.

Originally Posted by John D.

Thx would have been if needed license but wanted to make sure