The annual contest on the Delaware River has grown each year since 2011, when it began.
The participation and stakes have grown bigger than ever in the seventh year of the Delaware River Bi-State Shad Fishing Contest.
The angler who reels in the biggest catch in the four-day competition will win at least $10,000. All entrants will be entered into a raffle for a boat package valued at $12,000.
Last year's winner, who caught a 5.836-pound American shad, won $6,000. The 2016 contest had 352 people participate. As of Thursday, the number of anglers in this year's contest was already up to 415 anglers.
The contest runs from Thursday to Sunday, April 20-23. Prizes are awarded for the overall 10 biggest catches in the four-day tournament. There are also daily prizes and consolation prizes awarded.
Contest organizer Eric Fistler said the growing popularity of the contest means bigger prizes. The continued growth of interest and prize dollars has drawn a lot of younger people into the contest this year.
"I think now that the prize money is as high as it is, I am seeing tons of interest," Fistler said.
Everyone who registers in the contest -- even if they don't actually fish -- is eligible to win a boat package that includes a 15-foot-10-inch G3 Jon boat, a Yamaha F40J 30-horsepower jet outboard motor and a galvanized Load Rite trailer.
Bob Mayberry, of Mayberry Sales and Service Marine in Port Murray, put the boat package together. He said the four-person boat is perfect for anglers who fish the Delaware River or other shallow waterways.
Mayberry said the cost of the boat package will not diminish the available prize money. He was happy to help put the package together for a growing tournament, he said.
"This contest is nothing but a good thing," Mayberry said.
Mailed registrations must be received by April 15. Participants can register up until 8 a.m. on April 20. The weigh station is at the Phillipsburg boat launch near the free bridge.
To register, go to shadfishingcontest.com or call 610-762-0440.
John Best is a freelance writer. Find lehighvalleylive on Facebook.