Fishing on Property Question

[WormFisherman]

Hey guys, I'm just wondering if your allowed to fish anywhere as long as there aren't any signs saying not too. I recently started exploring a section of a stream that goes through people's backyards. One area of the stream is probably less then 30 feet from a house, so it's pretty weird. I'm not trying to have people call the cops, so any answer to the question is much appreciated. Thanks!

[msgdan]

Even though the land is not posted, you still can't walk on it. If you can access the area by stream, you may be good to go, as long as you stand in the stream.

If I were you, I would just knock on the door and ask permission to access the stream through the land. As long as the owner hasn't had a bad experiences with other fisherman, I bet 8 out of 10 times, you will be allowed.

JMO.....of course.

Danny V

[briansnat]

Odds are it's private property if it passes that close to a home. As I understand it, if it is tidal then you can be there as long as you aren't above the high tide mark. If it is a navigable waterway then you are allowed to be there as long as you are in a boat. As to who owns the land under the water it varies from state to state, but I think in most states (not sure about NJ) the property owner owns the land under the stream so you would need permission to stand in the stream, but not to float on it.

[Chrisper4694]

As strange as it sounds I think he's right about the ground under the water being private property in certain parts.

[buzzbaiter]

Proximity to homes is no big deal. Many "town" streams flow within feet of peoples homes or garages. Streams like Lopatcong Creek go right through town and are stocked. It may feel weird but if you couldn't fish it, they wouldn't stock it.

[WormFisherman]

Thanks for quick responses guys! I'm just going to ask the homeowners next time, and see what they say. The only problem is that i'll have to ask over 20 people..oh well. After a little bit more investigation I found it's downstream from a trout stocked area if that changes anything

[CMJeepster]

Are your waders bulletproof? If not, ask permission.