The first “Get Reel” fishing derby is in the books.  We had just under a hundred anglers come out and enjoy a fun day of fishing with friends and family on what was the first beautiful sunny day in May.

Before the park opened its gates there was a line up of cars with eager anglers ready to find a spot and wet a line to kick off the derby.  Anglers from as far off as Toronto showed up to fish in the derby.  It was great meeting and talking to many at the derby.  A lot of smiles and laughs were had throughout the day.

The target species was crappie. One angler, however, kept catching perch.  Unfortunately perch did not count towards the draw prize.  He had a great sense of humor about it though.  Towards the end of the derby, with the hot sun warming up the water,  the crappies finally turned up and a few anglers managed to catch a mess of fish with minutes left in the derby. Thanks to our wonderful sponsors, there were many prizes to give out. It made for a great atmosphere.  Some anglers who won multiple prizes showed great generosity of spirit by giving some away to the younger kids who were not so lucky.

I would like to thank everyone who participated in the derby.  We look forward to seeing you at the next one.  A big thank you to all the volunteer staff who made the day a success.  It would have not been possible without you.  Lastly I would like to acknowledge  our wonderful sponsors who donated the prize that were given away.  Bills Bait and Tackle, Boston Pizza,  Bennett’s Apples and Cider,  Marcie’s Cookies,  Binbrook Conservation, Fishing World, Frosty’s Fish and Chips in Dundas, and Living Hope Christian Assembly.  Thank you for your support.

— Lorenzo