An Ocean County Tradition: Decoy And Gunning Show This Weekend

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ - If you want to see the rich culture of the Barnegat Bay region up close, then come to the 36th annual Ocean County Decoy and Gunning Show at Tip Seaman County Park and Tuckerton Seaport, here on Saturday and Sunday.

“This show focuses on the traditional skills that were commonplace at one time in areas on and around the bays of Ocean County,” said Ocean County Freeholder Deputy Director John C. Bartlett Jr., who also serves as liaison to the Ocean County Parks Department. “Through a series of competitions, exhibits and demonstrations, we are helping to preserve the heritage and traditions of the bay for years to come.”

More than 300 exhibitors and 20,000 visitors are expected at the popular fall event. The free, two-day festival will run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 29 and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Sunday, Sept. 30.

You can watch the New Jersey Duck Calling contest. Or take in some of the more than 50 contests and seminars on a variety of subjects.

There's bound to be something for everyone. Check out the decoys, of course, boats, wildlife art and carvings, gunning supplies, antique fishing and hunting paraphernalia,duck and goose calls, clothing,carving supplies and decoy/boat lumber, according to a county release.

While you're enjoying the show, listen to the music of some famous Pine Barrens bands and soloists. Food vendors will also be on hand, with clams and oysters on the half shell, shrimp, clam chowder, chicken, roast beef sandwiches, hamburgers, soda and ice cream.

The highlight of the annual awards ceremony is the Hurley Conklin Award, which is awarded to individuals who have lived their lives in the traditions preserved by the show.

Both festival sites are on Route 9, south of downtown Tuckerton. Take Exit 58 of the Garden State Parkway or Route 539 and follow the signs to the parking lots at Tuckerton Seaport, Pinelands Regional High School and Freedom Fields County Park that are served by continuous shuttles.

For more details visit www.OceanCountyParks.org or call 609-971-3085.

Photo: Patricia A. Miller