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Local Angler Wins Bi-State Shad Fishing Contest

Participants engage in the thrilling Bi-State Shad Fishing Contest along the beautiful Delaware River.

News Summary

In the annual Bi-State Shad Fishing Contest held along the Delaware River, Matthew Hyman of Nazareth caught a 3-pound, 2-ounce American shad. This year’s event drew over 1,150 participants competing for a top prize of $20,000. Despite fluctuating fishing conditions, local enthusiasts remain excited about the competition and the revitalized shad population in the river. With various prize categories and cash rewards, the contest continues to be a highlight for the region and a key contributor to Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation economy.

Nazareth, Pennsylvania – In a thrilling highlight of the annual Bi-State Shad Fishing Contest, local angler Matthew Hyman of Nazareth captured a notable catch, reeling in a 3-pound, 2-ounce American shad on April 24, 2025. This event, which runs from April 24 to April 27, takes place along the Delaware River at Easton-Phillipsburg and has become a staple for fishing enthusiasts in the region.

This year, the contest has attracted a robust participation of 1,157 registrants, marking an increase of approximately 50 participants compared to the previous year’s event. Top competitors are vying for substantial prizes, with the cash award for the heaviest American shad estimated at $20,000. Although the top prize decreased from last year’s $25,000 due to the costs incurred for a new contest boat, a newly designed package, including a 17-foot boat, Yamaha jet-drive motor, and trailer, will still be raffled off at the awards ceremony.

Additional prizes are available for various groups of contestants, including seniors, veterans, women, and youth categories split into age groups of 11 and under and 12 to 15. Participants also have the chance to win daily prizes for the heaviest American shad caught during the contest.

Fishing success along the Delaware River has shown variability; earlier reports indicated good catches, but as the temperature rose above 60°F, fishing slowed down. With rain forecasted for the weekend, many anglers are hopeful that conditions will improve. Fishing techniques and lure selection are critical for success. Adjusting to the right color of dart or flutter spoon based on the day’s conditions can significantly impact an angler’s outcome.

Eric Fistler, the contest organizer, noted that fishing strategy is essential, including finding optimal locations along the river. The success of American shad fishing this season has been bolstered by the latest studies, which indicate that shad populations are rebounding in the Delaware River. A recent survey found over 24,000 juveniles, the highest number recorded in nearly four decades. This recovery can be largely attributed to improved water quality and the removal of multiple dams along the river, which have significantly enhanced the habitat for these fish.

Shad fishing season typically spans April and May, and local anglers have reported a rise in success rates this year. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission continues to monitor shad populations and encourages anglers to keep voluntary fish diaries to improve data collection, which can aid in ongoing conservation efforts.

The Bi-State Shad Fishing Contest and associated fishing activities contribute significantly to Pennsylvania’s economy, which boasts a nearly $19 billion outdoor recreation sector. Nationally, recreational fishing and boating produce over $230 billion in annual output and support over 1.9 million jobs. In addition to its economic importance, fishing offers mental health benefits; studies have shown that 85% of boaters report that their time spent on the water positively impacts their well-being.

As the contest continues, the excitement among participants and spectators alike builds, with hopes that fishing conditions will favor further impressive catches. With the potential for top-notch prizes and communal engagement, the Bi-State Shad Fishing Contest stands as a highlight of the local outdoor recreational calendar.