Try to see things from the viewpoint of the fish!
(Once picture is done loading, move your mouse across the sky.)
Please practice C.P.R.(catch-photo-release) whenever possible.
The Knee Deep Club, in an effort to build a "trophy" fishery, requests that all muskies caught be released.
Hopatcong State Park Night Fishing Rules (no permit required)
| SPECIES | CLOSED SEASON | LIMIT | MINIMUM SIZE |
| Trout (All Types) | * 3/18 to 4/6 at 8am | 6 from 4/6 to 5/31 only, 4 for the remainder of the year |
9 inches |
| Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass | * April 15 to June 15 | 5 total | 12 inches |
| Hybrid Striped Bass | none | 2 | 16 inches |
| Walleye | * March 1 to April 30 | 3 | 18 inches |
| Muskellunge (Practice CPR) | none | 1 | 44 inches |
| Chain Pickerel | none | 5 | 15 inches |
| Crappie | none | 10 | 8 inches |
| Channel Catfish | none | 5 | 12 inches |
| Alewife(Herring) | none | 35 | 6 inch maximum |
| All Other (Perch, Bullhead, Sunfish, etc.) | none | 25 combined | none |
Closed season means you cannot keep that species regardless of size during noted time frame.
* Signifies catch and release only during time frames noted.
The above list of regulations is a general guideline for anglers fishing on Lake Hopatcong, it is by no means complete. Contact the NJ DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, DIVISION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE for more information.
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NJ State Police Marine Services Information & State Regulations
Click Here For Boating Safety Manual
Click here to view The KDC By-Laws
For Yearlong Contest Rules Click Here
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ANGLER ETHICS
1) Keep only the fish needed.
2) Do not pollute - properly dispose of trash.
3) Sharpen angling and boating skills.
4) Observe angling and boating safety regulations.
5) Respect other anglers' rights.
6) Respect property owners' rights.
7) Pass on knowledge and angling skills.
8) Support local conservation efforts.
9) Never stock fish or plants into public waters.
10) Promote the sport of angling.