Nutley Fishing Derby Returns For First Time Since Pandemic

NUTLEY, NJ — Nutley’s annual fishing derby returned to the township last weekend, giving local residents a chance to get together for a morning of relaxation and recreation.

The derby was held at the Mud Hole (Memorial Park) and attracted dozens of families. Winners included:

• First Trout Caught – Jack Lopreiato
• Largest Trout Caught – Hudson Delatorre (15 ½ inches)

This year’s derby is the first to take place since the COVID-19 pandemic, a milestone noted by Commissioner Mauro Tucci.

“While we were required to pause in 2020 due to the pandemic and later to facilitate necessary improvements here at the Mud Hole, we are back and bigger and better than ever,” Tucci told attendees. “Today, the Mud Hole has been stocked with 625 fish and 10,000 minnows, so there's a lot for you to catch.”

The commissioner provided a brief history of the derby, noting its inception in 1960 by then-Mayor Harry Chenoweth and the Nutley Police Department. For many decades thereafter, the competition received steadfast support from Nick Mainiero Sr. and Mainiero’s Sports Shop.

In a special presentation, the Parks and Recreation Department honored Mainiero with a commemorative plaque recognizing his decades of service.

“I'm a little speechless right now,” Mainiero said as he accepted the plaque and thanked township officials. “I know it's been fun for my wife and me and my family. I hope you guys continue doing this and may it go on for generations.”

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