HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Anglers of all ages cast their lines and learned new skills during a free fishing day held Oct. 18 at Doug A. Blake Memorial (Alumni) Field in Hackettstown.
The event, hosted by the Musconetcong Watershed Association (MWA) and PEACENJ, brought together families and community members for an afternoon of fishing, environmental education, and hands-on activities focused on the Musconetcong River.
Participants explored topics ranging from casting and knot-tying to river ecology and safety. Equipment was provided for those who needed it, giving newcomers an easy way to experience the sport.
“With support from the National Park Foundation, the Musconetcong Watershed Association’s fishing clinics provide an essential entry point for families to connect not just with the outdoors, but with each other,” said Ben Yaskulka, policy and outreach manager at the MWA. “These multi-generational experiences nurture and pass down an appreciation for waterways like the Musconetcong Wild and Scenic River and the fish within, just as my grandfather teaching me to fish once instilled that same love of nature in me.”
Nicole Rawlinson, senior manager of youth programs at the National Park Foundation, said, “The National Park Foundation is proud to support projects that introduce young people nationwide to the beauty and educational opportunities of our national parks through hands-on activities like fishing. These grants not only provide essential funding for public events, but they also play a pivotal role in expanding recreational access for families, strengthening relationships with gateway communities, and inspiring future park stewards. We are excited to continue our efforts alongside grantees like the Musconetcong Watershed Association to connect more people to parks in the future.”
The event was part of MWA’s “The Reel Musconetcong” program, funded through a National Park Foundation grant. The initiative invites youth and families to discover “The Musky,” a 28-mile stretch of the Musconetcong River designated as a National Wild and Scenic River. Through free fishing events, fishing gear lending libraries, and educational programming, the program aims to deepen the community’s connection to the river and promote stewardship of one of New Jersey’s most protected waterways.
