The 67th annual Long Beach Island Surf Fishing Classic returns for nine weeks of action starting October 9 and running through December 12. The “Derby” as it’s still affectionately known by locals is a surfcasting only event with daily, weekly, segment, and overall cash prizes.
Recognizing the 2020 change in striped bass regulations where anglers are allowed one striper in a “slot” from 28 to less than 38 inches, the LBI Surf Fishing Classic has adapted rules to meet the regulatory change with three $1,000 segment prizes. There will not be a grand prize striped bass award in 2021 but three separate segment prizes for striped bass. But returning to the tournament lineup this season are prizes for the largest kingfish in the tournament.
Steve Palmer from Jingles Bait and Tackle in Beach Haven said the addition of kingfish to the prize structure last season was a terrific way to keep our young anglers engaged. “The enhanced prize structure will generate healthy competition amongst our returning anglers and give those new to the action, a great path to feel a part of it, right out of the gate,” Palmer said.
“With the new fishing regulations the tournament structure has been adjusted, offering more fun and competition than ever before,” said Greg Cudnik from Fisherman’s Headquarters in Ship Bottom, while adding that there’s still no better way to unwind and enjoy the outdoors than by fishing the open sand beaches of LBI.
“This year, even more so due to these unprecedented times, we encourage anyone looking to fill their time with something new and different, to join in and become a part of LBI in this way,” said.
“Some people get intimidated joining a tournament thinking it’s only for the elite fisherman, hardcore anglers,” explained Jerry Bush from Surf City Bait and Tackle, adding “But it’s not. It’s for all levels, all ages.”
Once again 2021, the LBI Surf Fishing Classic will feature special daily cash prizes throughout the event, with cash awards also handed out to top bluefish and red drum. The Classic will also feature a weekly photo prize at the tournament’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LBISurfFishingClassic) with reels awarded by Tsunami tackle for registered anglers posting the best photos as judged by the contest committee.
Entry is $30 for adults, $15 or kids age 17 and younger. Tournament registration and weigh-in at each of the three participating LBI tackle shops; Surf City Bait &Tackle at 317 Long Beach Blvd. in Surf City, Fisherman’s Headquarters at 280 W. 9th St. in Ship Bottom, and Jingles Bait & Tackle at 1214 Long Beach Blvd. in Beach Haven.
Gold and platinum level sponsors of the 2021 LBI Surf Fishing Classic include Ship Bottom Brewery, Mancini Realty, Barlow Buick/GMC, DiFeo’s Manahawkin Jeep, Bonanni Realtors, Drifting Sands Hotel, Ben & Jerry’s of Beach Haven, Nexus Properties, Tsunami Tackle and The Fisherman Magazine.
For complete tournament rules, special prize dates and to follow along with the daily weigh-ins visit LBISFC.com.
