Reeling in Fun and Prizes at the 38th Annual Canyon Lake Kids Fishing Derby

The 38th Annual Canyon Lake Kids Fishing Derby, hosted by the Canyon Lake Bassmasters Club, was a resounding success, drawing nearly 300 young anglers to the picturesque waters of Canyon Lake. The event, which has become a beloved tradition in the community, offered a day of outdoor adventure, friendly competition, and the chance to reel in some impressive catches.

Casting a Line for Prizes and Bragging Rights

A Morning of Fishing and Friendly Competition

The young participants were given the opportunity to fish anywhere on the lake between 6 and 11 a.m., with the goal of catching the biggest fish in each of the four species categories: bluegill, crappie, catfish, and carp. The excitement was palpable as the kids cast their lines, eager to land the winning catch and claim their prizes.The Bassmasters Club, with the help of generous sponsors, had purchased approximately $6,000 worth of prizes to ensure that no participant went home empty-handed. In addition to the trophies awarded to the top anglers in each age group, all participants were entered into a free drawing for a chance to win a brand-new bicycle. The lucky winners, Nolan Hewitt, Oliver Lemmon, Kaiya Evans, and Paris Alanbar, pedaled away with their new two-wheeled prizes, their faces beaming with joy.

Celebrating the Standout Anglers

The standout anglers of the day were recognized with trophies for their impressive catches. In the five to seven age group, Oliver Lemmon took first place with a total weight of 15.10 lbs., followed by Weston Barker with 11.88 lbs. and Claire Libring with 7.98 lbs.In the eight to 11 age group, Anderson Ben reeled in first place with a total weight of 19.65 lbs., followed by Claire Fleck with 13.93 lbs. and Chloe Evans with 13.33 lbs. The 12 to 15 age group saw Aidan Moreno take the top spot with 16.51 lbs., while Zeke Lozano and Sam Lesievr rounded out the top three with 13.60 lbs. and 13.40 lbs., respectively.The big fish winners in each category were also celebrated. Maveric Thomas caught a carp weighing an impressive 15.28 lbs., Wyatt Rowe landed a catfish weighing 7.58 lbs., Dominic Gadmina reeled in a crappie weighing 1.49 lbs., and Brantlee Siders caught a bluegill weighing 1.53 lbs.

A Delightful Lunch and Camaraderie

After a morning of fishing and friendly competition, the participants and their families were treated to a complimentary lunch of hot dogs, chips, drinks, and snow cones. This provided a perfect opportunity for the young anglers to share their stories, compare their catches, and celebrate their achievements with their loved ones.The 38th Annual Canyon Lake Kids Fishing Derby was a testament to the power of community, outdoor recreation, and the joy of fishing. The event not only fostered a love for the sport among the next generation but also created lasting memories and a sense of camaraderie that will undoubtedly inspire the participants to return year after year.