The 2016 trout season in New Jersey gets underway on Saturday, April 9, with the annual kids event at Spring Lake.
While the trout season kickoff often conjures visions of northwest and Poconos area streams, one of the bigger opening day events in the tri-state region will be along the Jersey Coast with the Shark River Surf Anglers annual Trout Contest For Kids from 8 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Spring Lake.
The annual kickoff event for the New Jersey trout season opener is open to all children 15 years old and under with a special grand prize of a custom trophy, rod and reel, assorted gear, and a taxidermist’s mounting of the winning catch awarded to the child landing the largest trout.
There are also prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers for the three heaviest trout in each of the following age divisions: 5 years & under, 6 to 9 years, 10 to 12 years, and 13 to 15 years. All kids who weigh in a trout will receive a prize.
How’s it work? Fish at Spring Lake on opening day and catch a trout during contest hours. Bring it to the club’s big white tent at Mercer Avenue to weigh it in and register your catch! Trout must be caught from Spring Lake to be eligible (and no snagging of trout permitted!) Stop by the tent throughout the day for free food, bait, and fishing guidance. Winners will be announced at 2 p.m.
To learn more visit www.sharkriversurfanglers.com.
Remember, a valid New Jersey fishing license is required for residents at least 16 years and less than 70 years of age (plus all non-residents 16 years and older) to fish the fresh waters of New Jersey, including privately owned waters. To possess trout and salmon for all anglers (residents and non-residents alike) 16 and over, a trout stamp is also required (except for residents age 70 years and over.) Both the license and trout stamp are valid from date of purchase through December 31.
Licenses may be purchased by calling 888-773-8450, online at www.NJ.WildlifeLicense.com or at license agents such as sporting goods stores plus bait and tackle shops.
The New Jersey trout rundown with stocked waters, along information on the broodstock program, is featured in the April edition of The Fisherman Magazine. Look for it at newsstands now; or, current subscribers can access a digital version of the New Jersey, Delaware Bay edition by clicking here.