It has been a tremendous honor to serve as your President for another successful year. I passionately believe that JCAA remains the leading association consistently advocating for the recreational fishing community, ensuring resources are available for future generations. Over the past year, we have welcomed several new dedicated volunteers who have become increasingly involved with fisheries issues and matters impacting our community, for which I am sincerely grateful. However, this is only the beginning. JCAA requires many more committed individuals to volunteer, ensuring that our association can continue to operate effectively. If you are interested in becoming more involved, please feel free to reach out to me.
As the new year starts, do not forget to renew your NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry. You can update your registration by visiting the NJDEP - NJ Fish & Wildlife Saltwater Recreational Registry Program website or going to this link.
At the JCAA General Membership Meeting on December 30th at 7:30pm, the election of Officers for the year 2026 will take place. Members interested in serving in any elected position are encouraged to contact Don Martanz at (908) 347-1434 prior to the meeting. Serving as an officer offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the protection of the rights of New Jersey’s recreational fishing community. While challenges may arise and outcomes may not always be as anticipated, it is important that we remain committed to advocating for what our member clubs believe is right.
I hope this holiday season finds everyone well and enjoying time with their families. In last month’s article, I highlighted the commendable efforts of retailers and local bait and tackle shops that actively engage in fisheries advocacy and contribute to resource sustainability for the broader community, an involvement that is not always mirrored within the wider recreational sector. These businesses consistently supply the resources necessary for recreational fishing enjoyment throughout the year. While this message also served as a suggestion for holiday gifts, I encourage continued support for these establishments beyond the holiday season.
Recreational anglers are encouraged to prepare for the upcoming 2026 ASMFC Winter Meeting, which is scheduled to take place from February 3–5 at the Westin Crystal City, 1800 Richmond Highway, Arlington, VA 22202. For details regarding the meeting, pending action item such as the Recreational Sector Separation and Data Collection Amendment, submission of public comments, and access to the meeting agenda, please visit this link. The species scheduled for discussion include American Lobster, Winter Flounder, Spiny Dogfish, American Eel, Coastal Pelagics, Atlantic Menhaden, Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Atlantic Striped Bass. It is essential that members of the recreational community thoroughly review the information provided, attend the meeting if possible, and submit both written and verbal comments.
JCAA will have booths at both the Atlantic City Boat Show (February 25th to March 1st) and the Saltwater Fishing Expo (March 13th to 15th). We are looking for volunteers to help staff at our booth at each event. Having a strong presence at these shows is crucial for the Jersey Coast Anglers Association so we can connect with the recreational community. If you would like to volunteer, please contact me so I can schedule you for your preferred time and date. You can reach me at mtsport64@aol.com or (732) 245-9445. Let me know as soon as possible, I will need volunteer names several weeks before the shows to arrange free passes. You are welcome to visit other vendors at the event, at no cost, either before or after your scheduled volunteer time at the booth, which is a benefit of volunteering.
JCAA Membership Secretary John Toth will be preparing the dues notices for 2026 and sending them out in the near future. Saltwater clubs and individuals interested in joining are encouraged to contact John Toth at (732) 656-0138 or tothjohn@verizon.net for further information. It is essential that all current saltwater fishing clubs and individual members complete the provided form upon receipt to ensure their information is updated accurately. This process allows the appropriate representatives within each club to receive fishery alerts and important updates from JCAA, facilitating effective communication with their members.
The following excerpt was featured in my article last month and is strongly recommended reading for all recreational anglers. I encourage readers to thoroughly review and comprehend its contents, as increased understanding will likely lead to greater engagement within the community.
Essential Actions for Recreational Anglers:
Important Information