During 2020 and 2021, COVID restrictions prevented the Club from hosting the annual Kids’ Fishing Derby as was the tradition. With the lifting of those restrictions in 2022, there was renewed interest from the public in this event. Seventy-six kids under the age of 12 were registered and participated in the contest. Weather was good and the turn-out was great! And, the kids caught lots of fish including bluegills, bullheads, sunfish and bass.
In 2023, the event was even more popular. One hundred and twelve kids were registered and participated. We barely had enough room for everyone around our little pond. But, a great time was had and lots of fish were caught.
Actual records on the Kids’ Annual Fishing Derby are pretty sparse. However, from the photograph below, it is obvious that treating kids to a day of fishing on the club pond began soon after the clubhouse was built in 1942. This photograph was likely taken in or around 1948 to 1950, judging from the vehicles present. As best we can determine, the actual Annual event started and was continued from 1975 onward. That makes 2024 the 50th Annual Kids’ Fishing Derby.
Our thanks to our local radio stations for co-hosting the Kids Fishing Derby with the Wellsville Rod & Gun Club and for donating the many prizes that were handed out to all the participants.
