2014 NJ Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife has announced that this year's Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament will be moving from October to May. In 2014 the tournament will be held on Sunday, May 18, at Island Beach State Park.

Anglers can feel great about the use of their registration fees, as all funds raised are used for very worthwhile purposes. These include 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.

Anglers planning to participate in the tournament should register early. Early registrants will save $5 on adult registration, and will be eligible to enter the early entry raffle for a surf rocket, www.surfrocketfishing.com. The early entry incentive ends April 21, 2014. After this date, anglers will be required to register at the tournament.

The pre-registration fee for the tournament is $15 for ages 18 and up and the registration fee on tournament day is $20. The registration fee for ages 13-17 is $5 and registration is free for ages 12 and under.

NOTE: 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.

For more information, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/gsft.htm.

source: NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife