Calling All NJ Organizations: Host a Site for the 11th Annual Youth Fishing Challenge!
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
TRENTON, NJ — Get ready to cast a line for the next generation of anglers! NJDEP Fish & Wildlife’s “Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs” (HOFNOD) program has officially opened host site registration for the 11th Annual Youth Fishing Challenge.
This statewide event is a premier opportunity for schools, municipal alliances, rod and gun clubs, and community organizations to engage local youth in a healthy, lifelong outdoor hobby. By hosting a site, you help provide a safe, fun environment where children and their families can discover the thrill of the catch.
Event Details & Important Dates
Organizations can choose to host their event on one of the following days during New Jersey’s celebrated Free Fishing Weekend:
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Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Free Fishing Day): No fishing license or trout stamp is required for any angler (ages 16+ included) in freshwater.
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Sunday, June 7, 2026: A license is required for those 16 and older, but youth under 16 always fish for free in NJ!
Deadline to Register: Host site applications must be submitted by April 3, 2026. Capacity: NJDEP will accept up to 50 sites statewide on a first-come, first-served basis.
Why Host a Fishing Challenge Site?
When you register as an official host, NJDEP Fish & Wildlife provides the tools you need to make your event a success. Each sanctioned host site receives:
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Event Planning Kit: Complete with instructions and scorecards.
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Prizes & Giveaways: Fun items to reward youth participants and keep them excited about the sport.
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Promotion: Your site will be featured on the NJDEP statewide interactive map, helping local families find your event.
The Mission: “Hooked on Fishing – Not on Drugs”
The Youth Fishing Challenge is more than just a contest; it is a core part of the HOFNOD mission. By introducing school-aged children to fishing, the program encourages them to avoid tobacco, drugs, and alcohol in favor of positive life skills and an appreciation for New Jersey’s aquatic resources.
How to Apply Today
Registration is free but required for organizations wishing to be official hosts.
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Download the Form: Visit the NJDEP Youth Fishing Challenge page.
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Contact the Coordinator: For questions, email [email protected] or call (609) 947-4302.
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Submit Early: With only 50 spots available across all 21 counties, early registration is highly recommended.
Keywords: NJ Youth Fishing Challenge 2026, NJDEP Hooked on Fishing, host a fishing event NJ, Free Fishing Day NJ 2026, youth outdoor activities New Jersey, HOFNOD NJ.
Tags: #NJDEP #FishingNJ #YouthFishing #HOFNOD #OutdoorLife #NewJerseyEvents #CommunityService #FamilyFun
Google Discover Headline Ideas:
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Become a Leader in the Outdoors: Register Your NJ Youth Fishing Host Site Now!
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Calling NJ Organizations: 50 Spots Open for the 11th Annual Youth Fishing Challenge
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Get Kids Hooked on Nature: How to Host a 2026 NJ Youth Fishing Event
