Legislation sponsored by Senator Steven Oroho that creates an annual New Jersey “Fishing Buddy License” and amends current law for all around sportsman and fishing licenses was signed into law.

The new law sponsored by Sen. Steven Oroho’s creates an annual New Jersey ‘Fishing Buddy License,’ available for half the cost of a regular fishing license. (NJDEP)

The law, S-2567, allows residents and nonresidents 16 years or older to apply for a fishing buddy license when an application for a fishing license is made at the same time by another person, resident or nonresident, who has not bought a New Jersey fishing license since 2010. The buddy license authorizes its holder to fish only, and costs half the regular fee of a fishing license. The legislation is also sponsored by Senate President Steve Sweeney.

“This is an exciting effort to introduce more residents, visitors and their families to the many fantastic year-round fishing opportunities that exist across New Jersey,” said Oroho (R-Sussex, Warren, Morris). “Generating more interest in fishing through these incentives will also provide a boost to businesses supporting the industry in communities across the state.”

“This is a great incentive for New Jersey residents and visitors to enjoy recreational fishing as they share great times with friends and family,” said Sweeney (D-Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem). “Angling also supports our state’s wildlife management efforts, conservation programs, and it helps boost economic activity.”

The law also reduces the fee for an “All Around Sportsman License” by $10 for each fishing buddy whenever the application for one is made at the same time as another person who has not bought a New Jersey fishing license since 2010, and allows the Fish and Game Council to adjust these fees as provided in current law.

The bill was approved by the Senate with a vote of 35-0 and the General Assembly with a vote of 76-0. The law takes effect on January 1, 2016.