LONGPORT – Following several years when vehicles were prohibited from driving onto the beach, the Board of Commissioners this year has agreed to participate in the Pat Erdman Memorial Atlantic County Fishing Derby on a provisional basis. It is the longest running surf derby in New Jersey.
The board approved a resolution Sept. 16 to participate in the fishing tournament and allow anglers to drive and park their 4-wheel drive vehicles on the beach during the tournament period, Oct. 1 to Nov. 24.
During the public comment period at the commission meeting, resident Bob English questioned how the municipality would monitor compliance during the nearly two-month-long contest.
Solicitor Michael Affanato noted the borough had participated in the derby for many years until then-Police Chief Frank Culmone, upon his appointment as chief, decided he didn’t want vehicles on the beach, and the commissioners at the time agreed to abide by his recommendation.
There’s a new chief in town, and first-year Chief Ray Burgan is OK with it, Affanato said.
Anglers must be properly credentialed and have a participation badge, vehicle permit placard, and sign a liability waiver at the Longport Police Department, Affanato said.
Fire Chief Levon “Lefty” Clayton dispelled the myth that the anglers would tear up the beach.
Fishers are very concerned about the beach and know not to leave behind any fishing line, plastic bags or trash that could be harmful to marine life.
“They are the best, most conscientious people you can have on the beach that want to protect the resource,” Clayton said. “It was ridiculous when the former chief of police stopped it.”
Entry fee is $25 for the derby, which now includes beaches in all Atlantic County municipalities, including Brigantine, Atlantic City and all three Downbeach communities.
Prizes will be awarded in several categories, including stripers, tog, kingfish and sheepshead.
Participation requires a Derby pin, safety equipment, a spare tire and trash receptacle. All anglers will also be required to have the appropriate beach permit issued by the municipality.
Anglers should check with the municipality of their choice to obtain the beach driving permits. Atlantic City applications are available on the municipal website, and applications in other communities are available through local police departments.
Anglers can sign up and pay their registration fee at Scott’s Dock in Margate or any local bait and tackle shop in Brigantine and on Absecon Island. Driving permits must be obtained from the municipality.
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