Jersey Devil Kids Fishing Camp: A Legacy of Learning and Conservation
The Jersey Devil Kids Fishing Camp is owned and operated by Brian Rice, a successful
businessman and experienced charter captain specializing in light tackle fishing for the area’s
abundant striped bass. In addition to his expertise in striped bass fishing, Captain Rice
frequently takes clients bottom fishing and on offshore trips for tuna. Widely respected in the
New Jersey fishing community, he remains actively involved in local conservation efforts and
civic organizations.
In 2014, Captain Rice discovered the “Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs” (HOFNOD)
program, initially created by the Future Fisherman Foundation and now administered by the
State of New Jersey. This program aims to introduce children to fishing and the outdoors as
positive, healthy alternatives to risky behaviors such as drug use and gang involvement.
With the support of Liz Jackson, the HOFNOD coordinator at the NJ Department of
Environmental Protection, Brian developed a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the needs of
young anglers. What began as a one-week program for 12 kids has grown into an 11-week
program with over 130 participants annually. This remarkable expansion highlights the
camp’s impact in fostering a love for fishing, conservation, and the outdoors among the next
generation.
