As per the new 2026 NJDEP Fishing Regulations, NJDEP has designated Merrill Creek Reservoir as a Lunker Bass Waterbody. What does that mean? Well for one, MCR HAS BIG BASS! But to help manage the fisheries MCR is now subject to the Lunker Bass regulation set, which establishes a 15-inch minimum size limit and a daily combined creel and possession limit of three (3) Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass.
As per NJDFW, “This is a reduction from the current Statewide regulations of a minimum length of 12 inches and a daily combined creel and possession limit of five Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass is based on fisheries surveys, as well as reported angler catch information, which indicate (MCR) waters have quality Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass populations. Lunker Bass regulations are intended to help maintain and ensure the protection and longevity of these valued Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass fisheries.”
ALSO, there has been an additional change by NJDEP to 2026 fishing regulations concerning Lake Trout fishing at Merrill Creek Reservoir that will allow anglers to harvest additional Lake Trout at specific sizes from Merrill Creek Reservoir. 
NJDFW has indicated that, “MCR has been experiencing declines in the condition of its reproducing Lake Trout population, as indicated by poor weight, due to overpopulation.” The change to the regulations at Merrill Creek Reservoir is an increase from a daily limit of two (2) Lake Trout at a minimum size of 15 inches, to a limit of two (2) Lake Trout greater than 15 inches and less than 24 inches PLUS two (2) additional Lake Trout 24 inches or greater, for a total of four (4) Lake Trout per day. Also, the catch and release season is also removed for Lake Trout at MCR. These changes are collectively intended to allow and encourage additional angler harvest of Lake Trout to cull their populations for the benefit of the entire fishery at the reservoir.
