The annual Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament is typically held on the third Sunday in May at Island Beach State Park.

Enjoy a great day of surf fishing with family and friends at the Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament. Its purpose is to bring awareness of the importance of saltwater recreational fishing and marine resources in New Jersey to the Governor, State Legislators and New Jersey residents.

The individual who catches the overall largest tournament-eligible legal-sized 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.

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

High School Team Category

The High School Team Category is for high school aged students, who are part of a formal fishing club, members of a Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs group, or a non-formal group.

The tournament entry fee is waived for student teams, and admission to the park is free for registrants.

All tournament anglers need to complete the NJ Saltwater Recreational Registry prior to the event.

Questions can be directed to 609-947-1201.

For updates on the Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament follow our Facebook page and subscribe to the Marine Fishing and/or Outdoors E-mail Lists.

Past Tournament Information

Striped Bass win the 31^st Annual Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament

Winners of the Governor’s Surf Fishing Tournament, 1992-2024