New Jersey Black Sea Bass regulations are set for the 2026–2027 season, and there are some important changes anglers need to know before heading out. For the New Jersey open Black Sea Bass season, running from May 15 through December 31, the minimum size limit will now be 12 and a half inches for the entire open season, regardless of the date you fish.

Here’s how the bag limits break down:
From May 15 through June 21, you can keep 10 fish per angler.
From June 22 through September 22, the limit drops to 1 fish per angler.
From September 23 through October 31, it goes back to 10 fish per angler.
Then from November 1 through December 31, the limit increases to 15 fish per angler.
One of the biggest changes is that there’s no longer a fall gap between the end of Summer Flounder and the fall Black Sea Bass season, giving anglers more continuity in the season. If you want to target Black Sea Bass specifically on one of our charters, please note that these trips are not available on our 4-hour charters. For exclusive Black Sea Bass fishing, you’ll want to book a 5-hour or 7-hour trip. If Black Sea Bass is on your list this season, now’s the time to reserve your trip and plan around the new dates and limits.