PFBC to enact temporary changes to Altantic Striped Bass regulations beginning June 3rd
HARRISBURG, Pa (June 2) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) friday announced that temporary changes will be made to Striped Bass fishing regulations within the Delaware Estuary, Delaware River, and West Branch Delaware River, effective Saturday, June 3, 2023, and remain in effect through the remainder of 2023.
These changes are in accordance with action by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Atlantic Striped Bass Management Board during its May 2023 quarterly meeting to approve an emergency action to implement a 31-inch maximum size limit for Striped Bass recreational fisheries. Specific to the Pennsylvania portion of the Delaware Estuary, Delaware River, and West Branch Delaware River, the legal harvestable slot limit for Striped Bass will be 28 inches to less than 31 inches from June 3, 2023, through December 31, 2023. All daily limits and gear restrictions will remain the same.
Harvest and delayed mortality of caught and released Striped Bass have reduced the coastal population below levels needed to sustain high-quality recreational angling experiences. Due to the negative impact on the fishery, harvest restrictions are needed to help rebuild the coastal stock.
These regulation changes do not apply to inland populations of Striped Bass. Please see the 2023 Fishing Summary and Boating Handbook for minimum size and creel limits for inland waters.
Pennsylvania Saltwater Angler Registry Program
In addition to taking note of these amended regulations, anglers fishing in the Delaware Estuary must register with the Pennsylvania Saltwater Angler Registry Program. PA-SARP allows both NOAA and the PFBC to monitor angler use in the Estuary. Pennsylvania resident anglers may register for free online using the HuntFishPA licensing system. Additionally, if fishing in New Jersey waters, anglers should follow New Jersey regulations and register for NJ SRRP.
