Annual Bridgeport Kiwanis Club Youth Fishing Derby Scheduled to Take Place Saturday at Deegan Lake
By Julie Perine on June 30, 2016 via Connect-Bridgeport.com
The Annual Youth Fishing Derby, sponsored by Bridgeport Kiwanis, is set for Saturday July 2 at Deegan Lake. Though not an official part of the annual Benedum Festival, the derby is always held in conjunction with that event, said Kiwanis Member Richard Bailey. This year, the Benedum Festival was downsized and the spirit of Bridgeport philanthropist, Michael Late Benedum, will be captured in a one-day Picnic in the Park event, which will kick off 10 a.m. Saturday at Bridgeport City Park. (Read more HERE.)
The fishing derby will take place from 9-11 a.m. Children age 2 to 12, accompanied by a parent or guardian, are invited to participate free of charge. No license is required. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Deegan Lake pavilion. Registration is required and families are welcome. Fishermen are to bring their own fishing equipment and bait with live worms suggested.
The derby is operated in catch and release style. Each fish caught will be measured and recorded, with post-tourney recognition given for longest fish, most fish caught and other categories.
The fishing derby is chaired by Susan Lawrence with assistance by Rich Bailey. Both Kiwanis members are longtime advocates of the event. Bailey said he wishes more families would take advantage of the opportunity, a chance to enjoy unspoiled nature on the city’s outskirts and experience the thrill of the catch.
"It's a good way for families to get together and enjoy fishing at Deegan Lake," Bailey said. "Usually, the families come out and enjoy watching and helping the kids catch fish. Deegan and Hinkle Lakes are stocked by the (Bridgeport) Fire Department and there are plenty of fish - and turtles - to be caught."
For more information, call Susan Lawrence at 304-842-6681.
Editor's Note: Photos taken at previous Kiwanis Club Fishing Derby.
