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Fishing Derby Hooks ³Ô¹ÏÍø Youth

June 12, 2025

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(Pictured: ³Ô¹ÏÍø children cast their lines for a dream fish at the 6th Annual Fishing Derby at Home Pond – Courtesy of Decatur County Conservation Board.)
 
Morning raindrops bumped the 6th Annual Fishing Derby at Home Pond to the afternoon, but the gray skies didn’t discourage young anglers from reeling in the fun last Saturday. Kayla Stalder, Decatur County Naturalist, and Tim Brunner, ³Ô¹ÏÍø Parks & Recreation Director, organized the annual event.  Nearly 100 participants ages 18 and under, parents, and volunteers were welcomed to the free, family-friendly day at the pond. The derby also landed right in step with Iowa’s Free Fishing Weekend – no license needed.

Fifty children were seen wearing a complimentary T-shirt and every participant was given a prize. A free lunch, donated by Hy-Vee, was served following the fishing competition.  Medals were presented in several categories.  Awards were given for the First Fish, Biggest Fish, Smallest Fish, and Most Fish caught. 

The derby began with children spread along the pond’s shoreline eagerly dropping their lines. Many participants were first-time anglers, guided by parents or volunteers.  Excitement filled the air as the young contenders reeled in their catches, some squealing with delight at their first fish.  For many children, the event served as an introduction to fishing.  Raindrops and clouds were erased by happy faces, and the day was a simple but meaningful success.

Rounding out the event was a raffle, which followed the awards ceremony. Dozens of prizes were handed out, ranging from fishing gear to outdoor-themed items. The raffle kept the excitement going even after the last fish had been caught, and every child felt like a winner. 
 
“As in past years, everyone left this year’s derby a winner with lasting memories,” said Brunner. “With continued support from local organizations and sponsors like Hy-Vee, and RSVP volunteers, the Home Pond Fishing Derby will continue to be a ³Ô¹ÏÍø tradition for years to come.”