The Old Time Barnegat Bay Decoy and Gunning Show will return for its 43rd year on September 27 and 28 at Tip Seaman County Park and the Tuckerton Seaport. The event, running from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, continues a longstanding tradition that highlights Ocean County’s history of water fowling, hunting, fishing, and folk art.
Exhibitors will present items such as decorative and working decoys, wildlife art, outdoor clothing, antiques, and hunting supplies. Activities scheduled include retriever contests, skeet shooting, environmental exhibits, craft demonstrations, live music, traditional games like soap carving and archery, as well as children’s scavenger hunts.
“From the artistry of decoy carving to the hands-on experiences for families, this show highlights the unique character of our Barnegat Bay region and continues to educate and inspire new generations,” said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. “It is a great celebration of Ocean County’s traditions and natural heritage.”
This year’s collector’s pin—featuring the Ruddy Duck—will be available for $5 at several locations during the event. Mary Jane Bavais designed the pin in her role as Director of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation.
More than 50 contests are planned throughout the weekend including the New Jersey Duck Calling Championships; winners will move on to compete nationally in Stuttgart, Arkansas. Presentations about notable carvers Harry M. Shourds and Rube Corlies are also scheduled.
A highlight is The Hurley Conklin Award sponsored by the Ocean County Board of Commissioners. Named after Hurley Conklin—a prominent figure among Barnegat Bay carvers—the award honors individuals who uphold local traditions. This year it goes to Mark Ford from Little Egg Harbor who began carving at age nine, and George Strunk who has been part of the show since 1986 after retiring from ironwork.
“For more than four decades, the Decoy & Gunning Show has brought our community together to celebrate history, craftsmanship, and the great outdoors,” said Arace. “It’s one of Ocean County’s most anticipated events of the year, and we are proud to offer this family-friendly experience.”
Admission is free with parking provided at Pinelands High School or Freedom Fields County Park; shuttle buses transport visitors directly to both main sites.
Programs for this year’s show can be picked up at any county park site or through the County Connection service.
