Governor's Surf Fishing Tournament

This event was sponsored by the Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish & Wildlife and Division of Parks and Forestry. Co-sponsoring were the New Jersey Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, Jersey Coast Anglers Association, and the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association. 

Overall length determined the winners for each of the specie’s categories.  There were children, teen, and adult angler categories, including sub-categories for male and female anglers. Surf rod and reel outfits were awarded as prizes to the winners in each category.

The winner of the prestigious Governor's Cup, for the largest fish caught, was Carl Kogel of Jackson, NJ with a 34-1/2 inch long bluefish  . Mr. Kogel received a plaque along with valuable prizes. Additionally, his name will be engraved on the Governor's Cup, which is permanently displayed in the lobby of the Island Beach State Park administration building.

Along with the tournament prizes offered, the registration forms of pre-registrants and same-day entrants were placed into special drawings for additional prizes.

A final word of thanks goes to state employees and the many volunteers that made this year’s tournament so enjoyable.  This annual effort runs smoothly because of the dedication of these people.  The judges deserve a great amount of praise for not only donating their time, but also the use of their 4-wheel drive vehicles.  Judging can be a boring or demanding job at different times, but it is a crucial element in the continued success of this tournament.

2005 Governor Cup Winners

Bluefish Category (39 Caught)

Adult (Male)

Third Place                            Gary Gomacic