Youth Education Report
If you would like to become a certified NJ HOFNOD instructor, please attend the next leader training workshop. For more information about NJ Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs leader training please contact Liz Jackson, NJ HOFNOD Coordinator. Phone: (908) 637-4125 x122, email: liz.jackson@dep.state.nj.us or register here for the next 2025 NJ HOFNOD leader training.
NJBBA is doing a great job with the Toms River Fishing Indians. Please see their Facebook page at this link.
This year the Governor’s Surf Fishing tournament is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2025. Veterans that register must check the veteran box to win the veterans category. The veteran who wins will be asked to prove their veteran status by showing a government issued ID or copy of DD 214. For, early registration, click here. Early registration will end April 19, 2025.
Be sure to visit the JCAA booth at upcoming fishing and boating shows. Stop by and meet our team. They can answer all your questions about saltwater fisheries management and pending regulations. You can also ask questions about flea markets that will be held in the spring of 2025. Don’t forget to support the high school fishing flea markets that help our youngsters learn about fishing.
We thank Sean Moley, Pier Fishing Instructor, for all his time and hard work to keep our veterans learning about fishing at the pier. Sean's report: Veterans are patiently doing some late season Togging at Earle pier. While the official season draws closer to the end, there's hopes of late striper runs and possible winter species to be found. Regardless, the camaraderie is great year-round. Look for Jim, Steve, and Sean to see what's happening or to simply shoot the breeze. There are 25 passes that will be issued March 1, 2025. Qualifications are active duty, retired or any disability percentage rated by the VA. Loaner rods and reels are available. Contact Sean at (732) 895-6032.
We remind all eligible disabled veterans to apply for an IBSP 2025 Mobile Sportfishing Permit to drive on the beach. Veterans must provide the following: Form DD 214 Honorable Discharge, Valid NJ Driver License and Registration, Veterans ID Card proof of service-connected disability. If you plan to fish on the beach, you must register for a Free NJ Saltwater Recreational Registration Card. It is suggested new beach drivers take a beach safety driving course. NJBBA offers a beach driving course at this link. For more information about permits and hours contact: Island Beach State Park, (732) 793-0506. Visit VVA Chapter 12 for Play HOOK-e veteran news and discounts.