All Division of Fish and Wildlife programs strictly adhere to current New Jersey Covid-19 safety protocols including social distancing guidelines and travel restrictions. Program availability or allowable attendance at programs may change if these guidelines or restrictions change. Information will be updated and participants will be notified immediately if necessary.

The Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Program's Youth Fishing Challenge is a free statewide event to promote fishing among youths and their families. In 2021 it will be held on the first of the state's two Free Fishing Days, Saturday, June 5, when no license is required to fish regardless of age.

Registered youth participants may be eligible to receive prizes for the fish they catch during the event. Youth must be present at the end of the event to be awarded prizes.

Questions regarding participation or hosting an event can be directed to hofnod@dep.nj.gov.

Organizations interested in hosting an event, and individuals interested in volunteering at an event, should complete and submit an application form:

Organization/Volunteer Application Form (pdf, 1.0mb - Complete online, save (if your system allows) and submit via e-mail, or print and mail.)

DEADLINE TO REGISTER AS A HOST SITE IS APRIL 15, 2021.

This event is sponsored by NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife's Hooked on Fishing-Not on Drugs Program.

YOUTH FISHING CHALLENGE RULES
The following rules apply to all events:

1. Registration is required and FREE - see information below for the location you'd like to attend.
    Note: Each hosting organization/location may have its own rules or "need to know" information.

2. The event is open to all ages - no license or trout stamp is required on New Jersey's Free Fishing Days. The entire family is encouraged to join the fun!

3. Participating youths aged 20 and under are eligible to receive event giveaways and prizes.
    Note: Youths will receive a scorecard the day of the event and must turn in their completed scorecards to receive free giveaways and prizes.

4. PARTICIPANTS MUST BE PRESENT AT THE CLOSE OF THE EVENT TO RECEIVE A PRIZE!

YOUTH FISHING CHALLENGE EVENTS

Locations for the 2021 challenge will be listed when available.