Young anglers can compete for a $50 Academy Sports gift card at a free fishing tournament Friday, Sept. 18, at Amelia Island State Park.

The Nassau Sport Fishing Association is hosting its Youth Fishing Rod Tournament from 2:30 to 5 p.m. at the park on the south end of the island. There is no entry fee.

Rules limit rod length to 36 inches

The rules are straightforward. Participants must use a fishing pole no longer than 36 inches. Any reel, bait or lure is allowed, and anglers can fish with multiple rods as long as each meets the 36-inch limit. The single winner takes home the gift card for landing the heaviest fish.

Organizer offers loaner rods to families

Sean Person, an NSFA organizer, is coordinating loaner rods for participants who don't have their own. Families who need to borrow a rod should call Person at 978-335-9705 before Sept. 18 so he can bring enough equipment.

Event serves as tuneup for October contest

NSFA described the Sept. 18 event as a warmup for the club's official youth fishing tournament. The organization said on its event page that it hopes to collect promotional photos at the September outing to build interest for the October competition.

That official youth tournament is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 24, at 4 p.m. at Old Town Bait & Tackle, 1620 N. 14th St., Fernandina Beach. Unlike the free September event, the October tournament carries a $10 entry fee.

Club has funded scholarships since 1983

NSFA, a nonprofit established in 1983, promotes saltwater fishing and youth activities across Nassau County. The organization awarded $22,000 in scholarships to seven Nassau County high school seniors in 2026, according to the Fernandina Observer. Those scholarships are funded through the club's annual events, including the Fernandina Beach Kingfish Tournament.

Registration open online for both events

Registration is available on the NSFA website at nsfafish.net. The Oct. 24 tournament uses the same contact: Sean Person at 978-335-9705.