From the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife:

Mark your calendars and get your registrations in now for the 19th Annual Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament!

This year's tournament is scheduled for October 3 at Island Beach State Park and will be held rain or shine.

Pre-registrations must be postmarked by September 11, and adults save $5 by registering by the deadline.

Those who pre-register are eligible for special prizes offered on the day of the tournament, including an early entry raffle for a surf rocket.

The tournament offers participants an excellent opportunity to learn more about the sport of surf fishing, while enjoying a fun day with family and friends.

Funds raised at the tournament are used for very worthwhile purposes including the purchase of specialized wheelchairs that provide the disabled and elderly beach access, surf fishing instruction programs and equipment, marine education and restoration efforts, and surf fishing access.

The individual who catches the overall largest fish wins the "Governor's Award," and has 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.

The pre-registration fee for the tournament is $10 for ages 18 and up and the registration fee on Tournament day is $15.

The registration fee for ages 13-17 is $5 and registration is free for ages 12 and under.

Anyone unable to pre-register by mail by September 14 can register on the day of the Tournament beginning at 5:00 a.m.

Fishing takes place from 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the ocean side of the park only.

The Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament is sponsored by the NJ DEP Divisions of Fish and Wildlife and Parks and Forestry, the NJ State Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, the Jersey Coast Anglers Association, and the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association.

For more information or to download a registration form, click here.

NOTE - Prize winning tournament anglers may be asked to verify their compliance with the National Saltwater Angler Registry.

If you have not already registered, please make sure you do before hitting the beach the day of the tournament.

Registration is quick and easy and is free in 2010.

Anglers simply need to log on to the Count My Fish Web site and click on the Angler Registry link, or call the toll-free registration line at 1-888-MRIP411 (1-888-674-7411).

Back to Top