Up and Coming Anglers Join Pasadena Sportfishing Derby

With reels in hands, enticing bait dangling from hooks and the pure excitement of kids eager to catch fish, the Kid’s Fishing Derby at Downs Park on Saturday was a success for the Pasadena community.

Families poured into the park located on Mountain Road with the hopes of catching a prize-winning fish. Over 89 contestants registered to compete in the derby and were divided into two age groups, 5-8 and 9-13.

 “We saw a big fish flop in the water in front of us, but no one could catch him,” said Julia Eldred. “Today I brought out my three kids plus my niece and nephew for the derby, it’s fun and a great way to spend a Saturday - especially if you‘re babysitting.”

Sponsored by the Pasadena Sportsfishing Group, the Kid’s Fishing Derby is an annual event hosted at Downs Park, Lake Waterford and Fort Smallwood Park.

The fishing enthusiasts meet regularly at the Earleigh Heights Fire Department in Severna Park and hosts fishing events for both children and adults. The two hour derby had contestants competing to catch the largest fish in their age group.

 “I came out today to help the Pasadena Sportfishing Group with the event. I’ve been doing this for about 10 years now and the event itself has been around for about 17-18 years,” said John Smith, a volunteer. 

Following the competition, food and beverages were offered to the contestants and their families, and an awards ceremony followed with trophies and prizes of fishing gear. Also, as each child was registered in the event a ticket was given to their parents for door prizes.

And the winners are:

Ages 5-8

First Place: Alyssa Fraiser, 6, with a 9 1/2 inch perch

Second Place: Zach Moore, 8, with a 7 3/4 inch perch

Third Place: David Sweeney, 6, with a 7 inch perch

Ages 9-13 

First Place: Trace Carollton, 11, with a 12 1/4 inch rockfish

Second Place: John Lewis III, 12, with a 10 1/2 inch rockfish

Third Place: Alexis Weisgerber, 12, with a 10 inch perch

All winners received trophies and prizes and were photographed with Roxy the Rockfish, the mascot of the Pasadena Sportfishing Group.

The Sportfishing group made it fun for all by providing a goody bag filled with fishing gear as an honorable mention to all of the young anglers.