On June 21 experience first-hand the Somers Point Assault on Patcong Creek. The fifth annual crabbing tournament will take place in and around the waters surrounding Somers Point, NJ, including Patcong Creek, Great Egg Harbor Bay, Great Egg Harbor River, Middle River, Tuckahoe River, Tuckahoe-Corbin City Fish and Wildlife Management Areas, Peck Bay, Steelman Bay and Scull Bay. Join one of dozens of crabbing teams out on the water as they compete in what is becoming one of the largest crabbing tournaments in the state of New Jersey.
The event starts at 9 a.m. and kicks off at the Kennedy Park Boat Ramp located at 24 Broadway Avenue in Somers Point. The Assault on Patcong Creek began in 2010 as a-gathering of a dozen or so crabbing buddies and has grown each year over the past four years to more than 40 boats and 100 crabbers signed up to participate this year.
With bushel baskets and crabbing traps in hand, participating teams launch their vessels onto the water in search of rich crab habitats. Teams include long-time friends, husbands and wives, father-daughter and father-son duos. And with team names like “Bushelled Out”, “Big George” and “Tomcat III” the competition promises to be just as fun as it is fierce.
“This event has grown quickly because it is a great time for the entire family and community,” said Ron Meischker, founder of the event. “We hope to continue to grow and expand the event with cooperation from our great sponsors and the City of Somers Point,” Meischker added.
New this year is the award of scholarships to two children entering grades 7-12 who participate in the tournament – or are closely related to one of the crabbers – to attend the 2014 Sedge Island Field Experience camps at the Sedge Island Natural Resource Education Center located off of Island Beach State Park in Seaside Park, NJ. Campers immerse themselves into the salt march ecosystem. They will explore the natural and cultural history of Barnegat Bay as well as current environmental issues affecting the bay. Funds raised by the crabbing tournament will pay the two tuitions in full.
Assault on Patcong Creek plans to add two more scholarships in 2015 that will be designated for two Somers Point students.
The Assault on Patcong Creek Crabbing Tournament and BBQ would not be possible without support from their generous sponsors: The Blue Crab Archives, JO Spice Company, The Custard Hut, Gregory’s Bar & Restaurant, Campbell’s New Generation Marine, Sure Storage, Ardex Laboratories, Passion Vines Wine and Spirit Company.For more information on the City of Somers Point, NJ visit www.somerspointgov.org or call 609-927-9088.
The City of Somers Point is the oldest settlement in Atlantic County, dating back to 1693. This four square mile attractive town is located in the eastern portion of Atlantic County in what was once known as Great Egg Harbor and was first incorporated as a borough in 1886.