One of the advantages of fishing for wild trout in NJ is that you can fish year round.  While the specific dates vary from year to year, different regulations apply depending on whether you're "in Season" or "Out of Season".  In any Wild Trout Stream, only artificial lures can be used, and they can't contain any live or artificial scent.

Out of Season

The "Out of Season" period extends from September 15th to Opening Day of the following year, typically in the second week of April.  During this "Out of Season" period, you are welcome to fish for wild trout, but must use artificial lures and practice catch and release on all streams statewide.

In-Season

In-Season, you are allowed to kill up to 2 wild trout on any given day.  On most streams, the minimum size is 9 inches.  On the Pequannock, Van Campens Brook, and Wanaque River (in the WTS designated sections) the minimum size for Brown Trout is 12 inches (but remains 9" for brook trout and rainbows).