Recreational use of gill nets for bait... (bunker)
 

Recreational use of gill nets for bait...
I am new here and wanted to know if we are allowed in NJ to use gill nets to catch bunker and any smaller fish that would be used for bait? I was checking all the saltwater regulations and it is not stated that we can't. If we are allowed then what size of net is ok to use?
I appreciate your help.
Thanks!

Re: Recreational use of gill nets for bait... (bunker)
 

It's my understanding that in order to use a gill net in NJ waters you need a gill net license. The state is not issuing any new licenses, only renewing existing ones. So you would need to spend a stack of bills to purchase one from an existing license holder, who is most likely to be selling the catch commercially.

Re: Recreational use of gill nets for bait... (bunker)
 

Most here in jersey use castnets. Usually from boat for adult bunker and from shore or dock for peanuts when they are around. For adult bunker 1" mesh and a #of lead per foot diameter of net. Get as big a net as you can handle and throw. For peanuts 1/2" will suffice and 8' to 12 ' is more than enough. For smaller bait you can seine net off the beach or use 1/4" mesh cast net.