Started in 1955, the Long Beach Island Surf Fishing Classic tournament remains one of the longest running surf fishing contests on the east coast. Those who register early to receive a coupon for a free mini-pack of Berkley Gulp!® presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods of Manahawkin; a 2008 Long Beach Island Surf Fishing Classic hat and window decal; a coupon for a free exterior car wash, presented by Magic Wash, in Manahawkin; and a coupon for a free slice of cheese pizza, presented by Panzone’s Pizza, in Surf City. Early registration souvenir and coupon offers coupons are good while supplies last.

The Long Beach Island Surf Fishing Classic is sponsored in part by American Fishing Wire, Hi-Seas Line, The Fisherman Magazine, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Berkley Gulp!® along with dozens of area businesses, organizations, fishing clubs, families and individuals donating prizes. In addition to the fishing, a special free Surf Casting Seminar will be presented at the Chamber of Commerce office on 9th Street in Ship Bottom. Registration for the seminar is required – call the Chamber at 609-494-7211 or 800-292-6372. Door prizes, coffee and bagels will be followed by a discussion from the Surf City Anglers, a local fishing club, on surf fishing equipment, casting, bait, driving 4x4’s on the beach and other topics at the Ship Bottom Volunteer Fire Company #1, located at 21st Street and Central Avenue, in Ship Bottom.  Following the talk, seminar attendees will proceed to Ship Bottom’s 9th Street beach for hands-on instruction. 

Although boats are not permitted in the tournament, there will be plenty off action on shore throughout this exciting event. Tournament registration was $25 for adults (age 19 and older) and $15 for students and juveniles (age 18 and younger) - Be sure to check for current rates and details. Tournament registration forms will be available at the Chamber office, 265 W. 9th Street, Ship Bottom, or at the five weigh-in stations: Barnegat Light Bait & Tackle, 1501 Bayview Avenue, Barnegat Light; Fisherman’s Headquarters, 280 W. 9th Street, Ship Bottom; Jingles’ Bait & Tackle Shop, 1214 Long Beach Boulevard, Beach Haven; and Surf City Bait and Tackle, 317 Long Beach Boulevard; and Surf City and Oceanside Bait & Tackle, 8201 Long Beach Boulevard, Brighton Beach.