Prize for the 2nd biggest fish and most unusual fish for the under 5 year olds. Photographer Intern Melissa Zarou

Prizes for the largest fish and the most fish caught for the under 5 year olds and the 3rd most fish for the 6-10 years olds.  Photographer Melissa Zarou

Park Ranger Tom Miller shows SCA Jordon Sarber how to measure a fish at the Eastern Neck NWR Fishing Derby. Photographer Melissa Zarou

In partnership with the Friends of Eastern Neck and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge held their Annual Youth Fishing Derby on Saturday, June 14, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 pm.  The fishing derby was held at the headquarters pond located on the road to the Bay view/Butterfly Trail.  The Friends of Eastern Neck provided bait for all participants.  Fishing rods and reels were available for those who wanted to borrow them. Due to late advertising there was only a small group of kids, but the kids, staff, and volunteers had a terrific time.  Every participant caught at least 2 fish and a total of 73 fish were caught and released.

Twelve staff and five volunteers assisted kids with putting a hook on their line, untangling snags, removing fish from their lines, and measuring and weighing each fish caught.   Each registered participant received a gift bag of useful and fun items and information.  Youths competed for prizes for the biggest fish and most fish in 3 age classes (5 and under, 6-10, and 11-15).  There was also a prize for the most unusual fish of the day.  The Friends of Eastern Neck provided free refreshments.  Although the temperature was high, a breeze and shade helped make a nice day.