The Garden State Surf Fishing Classic, formerly known as the Governor’s Cup, will be held on Sunday, May 17 at Island Beach State Park. The individual who catches the overall largest tournament-eligible legal-sized fish wins the “Governor’s Award” and will have their name engraved on the Governor’s Cup, which is permanently displayed at Island Beach State Park.
This family-friendly day of fishing awards prizes in age, species, and gender categories. Same day registration ($20 for adults, $5 kids ages 13 to 17, and 12 and under free of charge) begins at 5 a.m. at Pavilion #1. The tournament fishing runs from 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a raffle drawing at 1:30 p.m. followed by the awards ceremony at 2 p.m. All funds raised go toward improving beach access, surf fishing instruction programs and equipment plus marine education and restoration projects.
The tournament is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish & Wildlife and State Park Service, as well as New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Jersey Coast Anglers Association, and New Jersey Beach Buggy Association.
The tournament entry fee is waived for student teams, and admission to the park is free for registrants. Questions can be directed to 609-947-1201. Learn more at njfishandwildlife.org.
