New Jersey is offering free hands-on fishing workshops for beginners and families at four locations this fall. All equipment, bait, and tackle are provided—you just show up ready to learn.
Workshops cover fish biology, equipment setup, casting, safety, and fishing regulations. You’ll practice your new skills with a guided fishing experience at each location.
Three workshops are scheduled in September and October across North, Central, and South Jersey. This includes a Grandparents’ Day workshop on September 13 in Hackettstown. Programs are open to ages 8 and up (some workshops 10+).
Registration is required and closes about one week before each workshop. Participants 16 and older need a 2026 NJ Fishing License (residents 70+ fish free).