With all the top tier lakes and streams throughout the Garden State, anglers often forget about the smaller, often more urban water bodies nearer Philly and Camden. Next Saturday, June 21, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP and its Division of Fish & Wildlife staff will be hosting a free hands-on fishing workshop that includes everything you need to know to get started out at Willingboro Lakes County Park.
Formerly Olympia Lakes, this 105-acre park in Burlington County offers a paved parking lot, picnic tables with grills and one small picnic shelter, three fishing and kayak piers, a children’s play area, boulder amphitheater, restrooms and improved trails. During next Saturday’s introductory fishing workshop from 9 a.m. until noon, new anglers will learn about fish biology; how to set up equipment; safety practices; bait and tackle choices; how to cast; and fishing regulations. All bait, tackle and equipment will be provided, however participants aged 16 and over will need to purchase a 2025 NJ Fishing License prior to participating in the workshop. This is a catch and release fishing workshop.
The program is open to children ages 10 and older. Those under the age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will be actively fishing alongside the child. Registration deadline is next Wednesday, June 18 at noon, or whenever full. Complete the online registration form early as the workshop is limited to just 15 participants. Email njfishingr3@dep.nj.gov for any questions about the event.
