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Managing Marine Resources

The Marine Fisheries Division of the N.H. Fish and Game Department was established by RSA 211:65. The Division is responsible for the regulation and promotion of both recreational and commercial marine fishing in the salt waters of the state. State waters include all waters within 3 miles of the coastline. The area between 3 and 200 miles of shore is under the jurisdiction of the Federal government. The Division conducts scientific investigations to monitor marine resources and habitat as well as the harvest of fishery resources within state waters. We also work with other states through the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, as well as the New England Fisheries Management Council, to manage marine species throughout their range.

Marine Species in New Hampshire

Waters within 3 miles of New Hampshire's coast provide essential habitat for many species. Organisms that use inshore and estuarine waters for spawning and nursery habitat include smelt, American shad, blueback herring, alewives and winter flounder. Coastal migratory fish such as striped bass, mackerel and bluefish frequent New Hampshire waters to feed on the abundant forage species. Shellfish common to inshore waters include oysters, softshell clams and blue mussels. Other important commercially and recreationally harvested species found in New Hampshire include Atlantic cod, haddock, pollock and lobsters. We also have marine mammals such as harbor seals and various whale species.