Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament slated for May 18 in Island Beach State Park

     (Photo: NJDEP)

    (Photo: NJDEP)

    The Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament, which has long been an October tradition at Island Beach State Park, is slated for Sunday, May 18.

    The date of the event, now in its 23rd year, was changed by the state Department of Environmental Protection to spark the summer tourism season and encourage more participation, as the tournament faces competition annually from a host of other October events. 

    “We invite everyone to come out to our beautiful state park for a great day of fishing, whether to casually cast your line in our clean ocean waters or battle it out for the biggest fish to win Governor’s Cup Award,’’ said DEP Commissioner Bob Martin. “There’s no better way to kick-off the summer Shore season, especially with an event that also raises money for some very worthwhile causes.’’

    The tournament is sponsored by the state Division of Fish and Wildlife and Division of Parks and Forestry, the New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Jersey Coast Anglers Association, and the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association.

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    For more information or to download a registration form, visit here

    IF YOU GO:

    The registration fee is $20 for ages 18 and up. The registration fee for ages 13-17 is $5 and free for ages 12 and under.
    The participant who catches the largest fish wins the “Governor’s Award” and will have his/her name engraved on the Governor’s Cup which is permanently displayed at the park. Fishing equipment is awarded to winners who catch the largest fish in a variety of species and age group categories.
    All funds raised by the tournament go toward a variety of good causes, including the purchase of specialized wheelchairs that provide the disabled and elderly beach access, construction of access ramps for disabled saltwater anglers, surf fishing instruction programs and equipment, plus marine education and restoration projects.
    Tournament anglers may be asked to verify their compliance with the NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry Program. If not already registered for 2014, please do so before hitting the beach the day of the tournament. Registration is quick, easy and, free. Anglers simply need to log on to www.nj.gov/dep/saltwaterregistry and follow the instructions on the page.

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