Six-year-old Harley Jones caught the first fish almost as soon as she placed her line in the water. Soon, young anglers were catching catfish and sunfish faster than our volunteers could weigh and measure them. First, second, and third prizes were given in three age groups (under 5, 6-10, and 11-15) for the biggest catfish, biggest sunfish, and the most fish caught. Special prizes were given for the smallest fish of the day and the largest crappie (the only crappie caught all day). A drawing was held every 15 minutes for prizes donated for the registered youths.

Each youth who registered also received a gift bag of items from Wal-Mart and the Service, as well as a Maryland Department of Natural Resources tide chart, fishing regulations, boat ramp map, and fishing ruler. The Friends of Blackwater provided free hotdogs, chips, and t-shirts for the anglers, and the Pepsi-Cola Company provided a free soda. Volunteers gave all of the kids a photo of them and their catch. The refuge loaned out all 41 of its rods and reels, and filled a waiting list as they were returned.

Some of the anglers also brought their turtles and frogs to compete in our 11th Annual Turtle Race and 4th Annual Frog Jumping Competition at 12:30 p.m. Fourteen turtles competed in the race this year, which featured four elimination rounds and a final round. Nine-year-old Christopher Robinson of Wingate won the turtle race, edging out second place winner Kyla Diggs from Hurlock and third place winner Harley Jones from Vienna.

Although many were betting on the huge diamondback terrapin to win, the smaller turtles wasted no time getting over the line while the diamondback hesitated to move, proving size did not matter.

The frog jumping contest featured 17 frogs and toads, not counting the one that got away. The amphibians battled it out in five elimination rounds. First place went to Christopher Robinson from Wingate, second to Brandy Marshall from East New Market, and third to Kyle Tobat from East New Market. When the contestants took a break, Kerry Turner displayed a reptile exhibit, and Dan Sides from Maryland Saltwater Sportfishing Association demonstrated "What's in a Tackle Box."

This year's derby introduced 84 youths to the fun of fishing. Best of all, they had a great time. We hope it will increase their interest in fishing and in returning to Blackwater and other refuges to learn more about wildlife and its habitat.