New Jersey Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife

For further information contact:
Jeff Matthews at 908-637-4173

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife has announced that the "Hook A Winner" program will continue this year. Begun in 1998, the program adds a new aspect to the thrill of landing a trout for more than 1,000 lucky anglers.

"The excitement this program generated last year, especially in youngsters, convinced us that it was indeed worthwhile," said Division Director Bob McDowell. "Just getting out fishing and enjoying New Jersey's aquatic resources is reward enough for most anglers, but adding the elements of luck and chance enhances the excitement of the sport for many folks."

Again this spring, more than 1,000 brook trout were jaw-tagged prior to release in New Jersey waters. Anglers landing one of these fish can submit their catch information and receive a certificate and pewter pin. In addition, to help celebrate National Fishing Week (June 5 - June 13), there will be a random drawing of entrants, sponsored by the N.J. State Council of Trout Unlimited, for one of 12 rod and reel combinations on June 5.

Lucky anglers who land one of these fish prior to May 31 should send their name, address, fish tag number, date and location of catch to:

"Hook A Winner Program"
NJ Div. of Fish, Game and Wildlife
605 Pequest Rd.
Oxford, NJ 07863