Fishing Tournament

Name: eRegulations
Price range: $

Mark your calendar for the Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament!

May 17, 2026

Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park

Come celebrate the 35th year of the Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament! Enjoy a great day of surf fishing with family and friends.

The individual who catches the overall largest fish wins the "Governor's Award" and will have their name engraved on the Governor's Cup, which is permanently displayed at Island Beach State Park. Prizes are awarded to winners in a variety of age group and fish species categories.

All funds raised by the tournament go toward improving beach access, surf fishing instruction programs and equipment, plus marine education and restoration projects.

Jason Zimerla of Manchester holding a fishing rod after winning the 2025 Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament with a 39 6/8-inch black drum, standing with event officials in New Jersey. — Jason Zimerla (second from left) of Manchester celebrates winning the 2025 Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament with a 39 6/8-inch black drum. The annual event highlights New Jersey’s coastal fishing opportunities and honors the legacy of Frank Dara. Photo courtesy of Jonathan Carlucci/NJDEP Fish & Wildlife.

The tournament is sponsored by NJDEP Fish & Wildlife, NJDEP State Park Service, New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Jersey Coast Anglers Association and New Jersey Beach Buggy Association.

Thank you to the 2025 Tournament Prize Donors: Tsunami, Grumpys Tackle, Betty & Nick's Bait & Tackle, and Celebrity Ford.

For tournament details, registration information, and event updates, visit the Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament page for the latest information or email.

Flyer for the New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs Sportsmen’s Jamboree, June 6–7, 2026, at Griffin & Howe at Hudson Farms in Andover, NJ, featuring NJDEP Fish & Wildlife events and outdoor activities. — The New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs announces the 2026 Sportsmen’s Jamboree, June 6–7 at Griffin & Howe at Hudson Farms in Andover, NJ. The event features NJDEP Fish & Wildlife’s 2026 Deer Classic, the Griffin & Howe 3D Archery Classic, fishing, archery, outdoor vendors, seminars, and family-friendly activities. Admission supports the community through food donations to a New Jersey food bank.