Hooked on Tradition

When the first warm days of April arrive, young anglers from across the Jersey Shore know exactly where to be. Spring Lake hosts one of the region’s most cherished springtime traditions: the Shark River Surf Anglers’ 2026 Kids’ Trout Contest.

Held on opening day of New Jersey’s trout season, this community event draws kids and families from around the area, all united by the timeless thrill of a fishing line hitting the water. Designed exclusively for children ages 15 and under, the contest has grown into a beloved destination event that attracts young anglers far and wide, and for good reason.

This year’s contest takes place on Saturday, April 11, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Spring Lake, but the fun actually kicks off two days earlier. On Thursday, April 9 at 4:30 p.m., all kids are invited to take part in a bonus stocking event. Meet by Mercer Avenue to help release trout directly into the lake. It’s a rare and exciting behind-the-scenes experience that gets everyone fired up for contest day.

Community Support

And when it comes to what’s swimming in that water, the Shark River Surf Anglers don’t hold back. With the generous support of local businesses and independent sponsors, approximately 700 trophy-sized rainbow, golden, tiger, brown and brook trout are stocked into Spring Lake, making for some truly spectacular fishing.

On contest day, the energy along the water is electric. Kids arrive with rods in hand, cheered on by families lining the banks. Those who catch a trout should bring it to the big white tent at Mercer Avenue to weigh in and register it. Every child who weighs in a catch takes home a rod and reel combo, and even those who don’t land a fish will still go home with a goody bag packed with fishing tackle. Truly, everyone goes home a winner.

For those with their eyes on the top, the grand prize is something to get excited about. The price is an amazing trophy, a custom rod and reel, a charter fishing trip, and assorted tackle, all awarded to the child who lands the largest trout of the day. Additionally, first, second, and third place prizes will be awarded for the three heaviest trout in four age divisions: 5 and under, 6 to 9, 10 to 12 and 13 to 15 years old. Prizes will be awarded at the club’s tent at 2 p.m., and winners must be present to claim them.

The contest’s roots run deep for many families along the Shore. Greg Hueth, chairman of the SRSA Children’s Trout Tournament, knows that better than anyone.

“I have been fishing this tournament since I was 6 years old with my father and brothers,” he says. “It has been a family tradition, and it’s great to share my love of the sport with other families. I cannot tell you how many kids have started fishing at this contest on opening day of trout season. Many of them now bring their kids to the event to keep the tradition going. The town, merchants, and organizations like the Spring Lake Five Mile Run fully support the event and help make it a huge success.”

The tent at Mercer Avenue is the place to stop by throughout the day for free food and bait, fishing guidance, or to make a donation to support future events. Those interested in donating can also call Greg Hueth directly at 732-492-6936.

For more information, follow the SRSA Kids Trout Contest on Facebook, Shark River Surf Anglers on Instagram, or visit sharkriversurfanglers.com.

Photographs by Michael Scotto

Jay Russell is a lifelong fisherman who can be found casting a line along the coast almost every evening.