Catch and Release: Youth Fishing Derby Small in Attendance; Big on Fun
By Julie Perine on July 13, 2014 via Connect-Bridgeport.com
West Virginia Kiwanis District Governor Sherry Charles spent Saturday’s early morning hours at Deegan Lake measuring fish and assisting with the Bridgeport Kiwanis Youth Fishing Derby, held annually in conjunction with the Benedum Festival.
Participants were few, but the event likely served its purpose. Some of the young anglers – both boys and girls – had successful excursions and will probably want to go fishing again.
Included was 4-year-old Emory Haddix, who served as the festival’s Miss Tiny Queen this year. She and other members of Benedum Festival royalty made appearances at many festival events this weekend. “Emmy” said she really enjoyed the fishing derby 
and according to the measurement she communicated via hand motion, she caught a pretty nice fish. The derby was operated in catch and release style. Each fish caught was measured and recorded, with post-tourney recognition given for longest and biggest catches. But no one walked away empty handed. Each participant was able to choose from an array of donated prizes, including fishing poles, tackle packages and soccer balls.
and according to the measurement she communicated via hand motion, she caught a pretty nice fish. The derby was operated in catch and release style. Each fish caught was measured and recorded, with post-tourney recognition given for longest and biggest catches. But no one walked away empty handed. Each participant was able to choose from an array of donated prizes, including fishing poles, tackle packages and soccer balls.
In addition to the Emmy’s family, including mom Darby, dad Todd and baby brother Creed, members of the Roy and Jackson families were among those who caught some fishing action Saturday morning.
The fishing derby was chaired by Susan Lawrence, assisted by Rich Bailey. Both Kiwanis members are longtime advocates of the event. Bailey said he wishes more families would take advantage of the 
opportunity. The competition is for kids, age 12 and under, but it’s an activity which can be shared by the whole family; no lake fishing permit required. It’s a chance to enjoy unspoiled nature, right on the city’s outskirts and experience the thrill of the catch. Bailey said he appreciated all who took part in this year’s derby and hopes more will get on board next year.
opportunity. The competition is for kids, age 12 and under, but it’s an activity which can be shared by the whole family; no lake fishing permit required. It’s a chance to enjoy unspoiled nature, right on the city’s outskirts and experience the thrill of the catch. Bailey said he appreciated all who took part in this year’s derby and hopes more will get on board next year.
Editor's Note: Photos here and in the gallery below are by Julie Perine and Rich Bailey.
