A list of lake maps can be found by visiting our website at http://www.NJFishandWildlife.com/fishing/freshwater/lake-survey-maps/. Click on the lake name to view a printable topographical map of the lake.

Owners of the public waterbody you fish may be the state or local government. This list (http://www.NJFishandWildlife.com/fishing/freshwater/places-to-fishponds-lakes-reservoirs/) will let you know what entity owns the waterbody and may be able to resolve your issue. For any environmental concerns, such as a potential Harmful Algae Bloom, call (877) WARNDEP to report the problem.

Largemouth Bass and some other gamefish species have been introduced in many freshwater ponds throughout NJ and since they reproduce naturally, their stocking is usually not necessary. Most likely, your local public lake or pond has these common game fish. Check this list to find which species are present in the waterbody you fish.

A fishing license does not include the right to trespass. In New Jersey, property rights are assigned to the landowner — the key part being land. When wading in a stream or standing along a shoreline to fish, you may do so only from property that is open to the public; if not, you must have permission from the landowner. The same applies for launching a boat or kayak. However, while in a boat or kayak, and not standing on the bottom (land) of the stream or lake, you are allowed to fish and navigate anywhere in the water. Remember, getting out of a boat or kayak must be at a location open to the public unless you have previous permission from the landowner. Fish and Wildlife urges all anglers and boaters to be respectful of private property and to be courteous to landowners.

Fishing provides enjoyable and relaxing recreation. Many people enjoy cooking and eating their own catch. Fish are an excellent source of protein, minerals and vitamins, are low in fat and cholesterol and play an important role in maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet. The American Heart Association recommends people eat fish regularly. Fish are also one of the few foods that are rich in the omega-3 fatty acids needed for proper development of the brain and nervous system in the fetus and infants and may reduce the risk of heart attack. Fish are an excellent substitute for other protein foods that are higher in saturated fats and cholesterol. Health professionals recommend that you include fish in your diet.

However, certain fish may contain contaminant from the water they live in and the food they eat. Therefore, it is a good idea to follow a few precautions in consuming recreationally caught fish and crabs, particularly if you eat them often.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and Department of Health (NJDOH) provide advice on consuming those species of fish in which high levels of chemical contaminants have been found. Since levels of contaminants may vary from one location to another and from one fish species to another, the advisories are also separated by site. So be sure to check which guidelines refer to your fishing location and the fish species you catch.