Talcott Mountain Kids
Fishing Derby
Talcott Mountain Bassmasters held it's fourteenth annual Kids
Fishing Derby on June 10, 2006 at Meadow Pond in Simsbury, CT. The
days event began at 7 am with registration, comprising of three age
groups of 5 and under, 6-9, 10-15. Fishing begins at 8 am and ends
at 11 am, followed by awards and prizes. Chapter members are
stationed around the pond to assist the kids with any problems they
may encounter. Bait and tackle are supplied for those who have a
need. When catching a fish of any species, the participants bring
their catch to the scales or have a chapter member do it for them.
All fish caught are returned to the pond after being weighed. This
enables the teaching of catch and release. The weight of the
individual's catch during the contest is totaled to determine the
winners. Throughout the event, water, juice, soda, and assorted
snacks are served to the kids and parents. Parents can also enjoy
coffee throughout the day. Trophies are giving to the top six
individuals in each age group with the highest weight, as well as,
the individual with the largest fish. The participation was down
from last years 93 to only 82 kids participating, believed to be due
to the weather. The breakdown by age group was 19 participants under
5, 34 age 6-9, and 29 age 10-15. The winners of the three age groups
were Gina Lindley 1.02 Lbs., Emma Banulski 3.04 Lbs., and Michelle
Lavoie 2.11 Lbs. The largest fish,a 9 oz bass, was caught by Tyler
Bailey. The next order of business is a random drawing, utilizing
the tickets giving out during registration, approximately 50
individuals are chosen to select an item among the large selection
of merchandise on display. To ensure all participants go home with a
prize, the remaining individuals without a prize, line up and select
an item. To close out the fun filled event, everyone enjoys a
cookout of hot dogs, beverage and snack. Also during this period the
kids are able to talk to chapter members for advice and tips on how
to improve themselves. The event is totally FREE, and each
individual receives an average of at least twelve dollars worth of
items, as well as, a day of family fun. It is through the generosity
of the Connecticut Bass Federation, many sponsors and active chapter
members that make a event like this successful. Your generosity
helps to achieve our goal of assisting the youth of today to become
the leaders of tomorrow.
Thank you once again.
Ray Bessette
