Blairstown Fishing Derby - May 16, 2026 - Family Fun at Footbridge Park!
Spring in Blairstown welcomes a trout-stocked river and family fun! Outdoor enthusiasts and anglers, from novice to expert, gather at Footbridge Park for Blairstown's Fishing Derby.
The Blairstown Fishing Derby is a lively spring tradition in Blairstown that brings the community together for a day of outdoor fun, friendly competition, and connection with nature. This is the first time the Blairstown Enhancement Committee will be hosting this event, and we are excited to continue the legacy! Held at Footbridge Park, the event takes full advantage of the season as local waters are freshly stocked with trout—making it an ideal time for anglers of all skill levels to cast a line.
What makes this derby especially exciting is its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or trying it out for the first time, the event is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Children can participate in structured, age-based fishing times, ensuring a fair and engaging experience. For newcomers, extra equipment is available, and knowledgeable volunteers are on hand to offer guidance, tips, and support throughout the day.
Beyond the fishing itself, there’s a sense of anticipation and friendly rivalry thanks to the chance to win prizes. Participants can compete for awards like the biggest or heaviest catch, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
It’s more than just a fishing competition—it’s a celebration of spring, community spirit, and the outdoors. Just remember, anyone aged 16 and older will need a valid New Jersey fishing license with a trout stamp to participate. Purchase Here
If you're looking for a refreshing way to enjoy the season, meet neighbors, and maybe even reel in a prize-winning fish, the Blairstown Fishing Derby is well worth checking out. Register Now
We Are Fishing For Vendors!
The Blairstown Fishing Derby is a great opportunity for local businesses, artisans, and food vendors to connect with a lively, family-oriented crowd. Held at Footbridge Park in Blairstown, the event attracts anglers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the day—making it an ideal setting to showcase your products or services.
We are currently seeking vendors offering:
- Outdoor gear and fishing-related items
- Handmade goods, crafts, and local products or services
- Family-friendly activities or services
Vendors will benefit from strong foot traffic, a welcoming community atmosphere, and the chance to engage directly with attendees. Space is limited, and priority may be given to vendors whose offerings align with the event’s outdoor and family-friendly theme.
If you’re interested in becoming a vendor, please reach out to events@blairstownbec.com for application details and requirements. Join us in making this event even more memorable!
Want To Make A Reel Impact? Join us as a Sponsor or Donate Now!
The Blairstown Fishing Derby offers a meaningful way for businesses and organizations to support a cherished community tradition while gaining valuable visibility. Set in Footbridge Park in Blairstown, the event draws families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the region—creating a strong platform for local engagement.
We are currently seeking sponsors to help enhance the event experience through:
- Prize donations for derby winners
- Financial contributions to support event programming
- In-kind donations such as equipment, supplies, or refreshments
Sponsors will receive recognition through event signage, promotional materials, and community outreach efforts, along with the opportunity to align their brand with a positive, family-friendly outdoor event.
By becoming a sponsor, you’re not just promoting your business—you’re helping create lasting memories and supporting community recreation. If you're interested in partnering with us, we’d love to connect and share more details on sponsorship levels and benefits. Donate Now
A Proud Blairstown Community Tradition
The Blairstown Fishing Derby may be a one-day outing, but it’s part of a larger tradition of seasonal outdoor programming in Blairstown that celebrates nature, recreation, and community connection. Hosted at Footbridge Park, the derby reflects a growing emphasis on family-friendly outdoor events that encourage residents to engage with local waterways, seasonal wildlife conservation efforts, and outdoor sports that traditionally sustained our community.The river’s calm stretches and seasonal trout runs made it especially popular for casual anglers and those looking to spend time outdoors rather than pursue competition. Over the years, it has remained a consistent backdrop for community life, even as the town has changed around it.
Today, events like the Blairstown Fishing Derby at Footbridge Park continue to build on that legacy, celebrating not just the sport of fishing, but the shared history and memories tied to the waters of the Paulinskill.