Reel Hope Charity Fishing Tournament 2026

We're excited to invite you to Reel Hope, a charity fishing tournament benefiting Springs of LIFE, on Saturday, October 24, departing from Belmar, New Jersey. Boat departs from Belmar at 7:30am, and returning around 2:00am.

It's going to be a great day on the water-but Reel Hope is about much more than fishing. Every cast will help Springs of LIFE continue reaching women in the sex industry and women experiencing sexual exploitation, building relationships of trust and walking alongside those who are ready to take steps toward freedom, healing, and a new beginning.

Dear Anglers and Sponsors,

As we count down to our highly anticipated tournament on Saturday, October 24, we want to ensure you are fully prepared for a successful, safe day on the water. For this event, we are incredibly excited to step aboard the Captain Cal II, a premier 90-foot Coast Guard-certified vessel sailing directly out of the Belmar Marina.

Please review this essential informational briefing regarding vessel logistics, local fishing regulations, award categories, and necessary apparel guidelines.

Captain Cal II Policies & Fishing Licenses

• Licensing Covered: You do not need to worry about purchasing an individual New Jersey fishing license or register for the saltwater registry for your time aboard. All fishing licenses and permits are fully covered by the captain and vessel.
• Bait & Gear: Fresh bait is provided directly on the vessel. Standard rods are included with entry, but you are welcome to bring your personal conventional or spinning setups if preferred.
• Beverage Policy: This will be a nonacoholic venture per Springs of LIFE request

Late-October Seasonal Regulations

We will be focusing on bottom-dwelling fish moving through the coastal channels and nearby structures. To maintain strict compliance with New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife mandates, any fish you choose to harvest must abide by the following size and possession limits: 

• Sea Bass: 12.5-inch minimum length.
• Tautog (Blackfish): 15-inch minimum length; 1 fish possession limit.
• Bluefish: No minimum size; 7 fish possession limit per angler on a licensed for-hire vessel. 

Note: All legal, in-season species caught may be kept by the angler, and the vessel's crew will be available to assist with catch handling at the scaling station. 

What to Wear: Coastal Autumn Apparel

October on the Atlantic coast brings sharp wind, low temperatures, and ocean spray. To stay warm and dry throughout the 8-hour excursion, please dress using the following standard layering strategy: 

• Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermal clothing to trap body heat.
• Insulating Layer: A thick polar fleece or wool sweater.
• Outer Layer: A windproof and waterproof jacket to guard against spray.
• Footwear: Strictly closed-toe, non-slip rubber-soled shoes or deck boots to ensure safe traction on a moving wet surface.
• Accessories: A warm thermal beanie, polarized sunglasses to block sea glare, and sunscreen. 

Tournament Awards to be Won

While the ultimate goal is supporting Springs of LIFE and survivors of exploitation, competitive bragging rights are up for grabs! Custom prize packages will be formally presented at the weigh-in for the following milestones:

• The Sound Sweeper — Awarded for the most total legal fish caught throughout the duration of the tournament.
• The Lunker Legend — Awarded to the angler who lands the single heaviest target fish by weight.
• The Wise River Elder — Special recognition honoring our oldest active participant on the boat.
• The Future Reel — Youth recognition honoring our youngest active angler on the boat.
• The Minnow Award — A lighthearted, novelty award given for the smallest intact legal catch of the day.

Thank you again for your incredible support of this vital cause. Get your cold-weather layers packed, double-check your departure arrival time, and let's get ready to Reel in Hope!

With gratitude,

The Reel Hope Tournament Committee