Jackson Police, PBA Launch Free Youth Fishing Event at Prospertown Lake in Jackson Township

May 25, 2026

JACKSON, N.J. — Young anglers in Jackson Township will get the chance to cast their lines, win prizes, and spend a morning outdoors when the Jackson Township Police Department and Jackson P.B.A. Local #168 host their first-ever “Hook ‘Em and Book ‘Em” fishing event next month.

The free community event is scheduled for Sunday, June 7, at Prospertown Lake on Monmouth Road and is open to children ages 15 and younger. Organizers say the three-hour event will combine fishing, food, and family activities while encouraging kids to connect with the outdoors and local law enforcement officers.

Fishing begins at 9 a.m. and runs through noon. Participants do not need a fishing license or trout stamp to take part.

Community Event Aims to Bring Families Outdoors

The inaugural event is being hosted by Jackson P.B.A. Local #168 with support from the New Jersey Fish & Wildlife “Hooked on Fishing” Program.

Children who register will receive several free items during the event, including shaved ice or ice cream from Davey B’zz Shaved Ice & Ice Cream, worms donated by Pinelands Sporting Goods, and pizza provided by Enzo’s Restaurant & Pizza.

Organizers also plan to offer prizes, giveaways, and other activities throughout the morning.

The event highlights a growing effort by police departments across New Jersey to strengthen community relationships through family-friendly programs outside traditional law enforcement settings.


Key Points

• Jackson Police and P.B.A. #168 will host a free youth fishing event June 7 at Prospertown Lake
• The event is open to children ages 15 and younger with no fishing license required
• Participants will receive free food, bait, treats, prizes, and giveaways


Registration Open for Young Anglers

Parents interested in signing up their children can register by emailing tconti@jacksontwpnj.net.

Organizers are reminding attendees to bring their own fishing equipment for the event.

Prospertown Lake, located along Monmouth Road in Jackson Township, is a popular recreational fishing destination in Ocean County and frequently hosts outdoor activities during the warmer months.

The Jackson Township Police Department and P.B.A. Local #168 thanked local businesses and community supporters that donated supplies and sponsorships to help launch the event.

“The Jackson Township Police Department and P.B.A. Local #168 would like to sincerely thank all of the businesses and community supporters who generously donated to help make this event possible,” organizers said in the announcement.

Building Community Through Outdoor Programs

The “Hook ‘Em and Book ‘Em” event marks the first fishing program of its kind hosted by the department and police union.

Officials say the event is designed to create positive experiences for children and families while promoting outdoor recreation in the township.

The event remains scheduled for Sunday, June 7, from 9 a.m. to noon at Prospertown Lake in Jackson Township.