Yes, implementing a free saltwater fishing registry in New Jersey has likely reduced its share of Sport Fish Restoration (SFR) funds because the federal apportionment formula is based on the number of
licensed anglers and the net revenue generated from licenses. A free registry does not meet the requirement for a license that produces net revenue of at least $1, so the number of anglers counted for funding purposes decreases. This would directly lower New Jersey’s portion of the federal funds that support fish and wildlife programs.
How the federal formula works
- The Sport Fish Restoration Program apportions funds to states based on a formula where 60% is based on the number of licensed anglers and 40% on the state’s geographic size.
- For a state to be eligible for funds, the angler must possess a license that generates at least $1 in net revenue after costs associated with its issuance.
- A free registry, by definition, does not generate revenue from individual anglers, so those who are only registered in the free program are not counted toward the state’s license-holder total for the federal formula.
Implications for New Jersey
- Reduced funding: A free registry leads to a decrease in the number of anglers that are counted for federal apportionment, which directly reduces the amount of SFR funding New Jersey receives.
- Impact on fish populations: This reduction in funding can negatively impact the state’s ability to fund conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and fisheries management, which are crucial for rebuilding fish populations like weakfish and striped bass.
- Loss of revenue: The state loses out on potential revenue that could be dedicated to marine and freshwater fisheries programs.
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