Ken Lockwood Gorge

Nestled between Califon and High Bridge in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, is an area with some of New Jersey's most pristine scenery. Combine these with some of the state's hottest trout fishing, hiking, cycling and nature watching, and you have all the necessary elements for an outstanding day.

The Ken Lockwood Gorge was purchased in 1948 by the Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife and has been referred to as “the most picturesque in the state.”

The 2-1/2-mile stretch of the Raritan River's South Branch comprises the central feature of this 260-acre Wildlife Management Area. Steep, hilly woodlands host a plethora of flora and fauna including both game and non-game varieties, including a diverse population of birds and mammals.

Ken Lockwood Gorge is best known as a trout fishing destination. The New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife has designated the area as a "Trout Conservation Area", in which a separate set of rules apply. Creel limits are different than most other sections of the Raritan River an fishing with bait is prohibited. [http://www.state.nj.us/dep/newsrel/2006/06_0059.htm]

The gorge is named after Kenneth (Ken) Lockwood, an outdoor journalist and conservationist. Ken Lockwood was best known for his column, "Out In The Open", which ran in the now defunct Newark Evening News. He was also a strong advocate for land conservation, promoting setting aside land for hunting and fishing. Ken Lockwood died on April 2, 1948 on the way home from his weekly radio program. Ken Lockwood Gorge was named after him a short time later. [http://www.flyanglersonline.com/features/oldflies/part264.php]

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