Free Fishing Derby at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside on Sept. 19

Echo Lake Park in Mountainside will host Union County's Fall Fishing Derby for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs on Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is free and welcomes all participants.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is presenting the derby in partnership with the Newark Bait and Fly Casting Club, bringing together community expertise and municipal support. The event is hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, which operates under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services in the Union County Department of Human Services.

Pre-registration is required. Participants can register by calling (908) 527-4781 or by visiting ucnj.org/opdsn-reg. Registration opens the opportunity for individuals to join a day centered on outdoor recreation, community connection, and inclusive participation.

The fishing derby provides a welcoming environment where persons with disabilities and special needs can enjoy a recreational activity in a beautiful park setting. Echo Lake Park offers a scenic backdrop for the morning event, and the three-hour window allows participants to fish at their own pace while connecting with others who share the experience.

For more information about the derby and other programs offered by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/ or call (908) 527-4781. Union County Life covers Mountainside events, inclusive community programs, and Union County news. Find more Mountainside events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: Patch

FAQ

Q: What is Union County's Fall Fishing Derby for Persons with Disabilities?
A: The Fall Fishing Derby is a free recreational fishing event hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. It takes place at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside on Saturday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Q: Who can participate in the fishing derby?
A: The event is designed for persons with disabilities and special needs. All interested individuals are welcome to register.

Q: How do I register for the fishing derby?
A: Pre-registration is required. You can register by calling (908) 527-4781 or by visiting ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

Q: When does the fishing derby take place?
A: The event is Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Echo Lake Park in Mountainside.

Q: Is there a cost to participate?
A: No. The event is free for all registered participants.

Q: Who is sponsoring the fishing derby?
A: The Union County Board of County Commissioners is presenting the derby in partnership with the Newark Bait and Fly Casting Club and the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs.

Q: Where can I find more information about programs for persons with disabilities?
A: Visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn/ or call (908) 527-4781 to learn more about the fishing derby and other programs offered by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs.