Children learn about Forsythe Refuge at HOF-NOD Derby Photographer: Seth Putney

Stocking the lake Photographer: Seth Putney

Waiting for a bite Photographer: Seth Putney

Busy Fishin' Photographer: Seth Putney

On May 5th, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge partnered with the Township of Galloway for the 5th annual Hooked On Fishing-Not On Drugs (HOF-NOD) free fishing derby for children.  "Hooked On Fishing—Not On Drugs" is a nationally accepted drug prevention program offered through the American Sportfishing Association's Future Fisherman Foundation. Over 200 children with their adult fishing partners participated in the derby at Patriot Lake (Galloway), which was also sponsored by NJ State Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, Absecon Saltwater Sportsmen and Cedarwater Bassmasters of S. Jersey.  Children were required to visit seven stations before being allowed to enter the derby.  At these stations, the children learned about the dangers of drugs, aquatic ecology, outdoor ethics, and how, when and were to fish.  Friends of Forsythe set up a station to promote the refuge.  Just before "cast-off," a representative from NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife's Hackettstown State Fish Hatchery arrived with a truck full of fish, and gave a brief presentation on six species of fish common to ponds in New Jersey.  Fish were then netted out of the tanker and placed into buckets for the children to stock.  With a blast from an ambulance's siren, the derby began.  Two hours later the derby ended,  and children and their families were treated to lunch.  Prizes were given to 1, 2, & 3 place winners in two categories (ages 5 to 8 and 9 to 12), for the longest fish caught (18" catfish), and for the "best" birdsnest. Winners all received plaques and fishing gear.  Every child in attendance received a tackle box with lures, a t-shirt and a door prize. This is the only free children's fishing derby in this area.  Refuge volunteers and partners continue to play an important role in the continuing success of the derby.