WITHERBEE — Approximately 150 youngsters and their adult companions came out of the woods and on to the shore as one fishing line after another plopped its bait into Roe Pond forming concentric circles while waiting for a tug, and the subsequent splashing of, “a big one” during a recent fishing derby.
Roe Pond is intended for those 15 years old and younger. Others fishing in this “dedicated children’s pond” are subject to a minimum fine of $100. Or, as the sign says, as per the Moriah Town Board, “If you cannot pay the fine do not do the crime.”
This 35th edition of the contest is intended for youngsters from 1 to 15.
The event’s judging is unusual from most fishing contests as instead of relying on weight, the winning fish are determined by length. As per the rules, it is done so because it is, “foolproof. There are too many variables to measure the fish by weight. We want to lower the risk of someone cheating and making it unfair to the kids that are following the rules. ”
The pond was fully stocked before the contest with a total of 1,450 fish supplied by the Essex County Fish Hatchery. This included 950 two and three year-old rainbow trout and 400 two and three year-old brown trout. In addition there were from 5-15 “big lunkers” of approximately 25 inches.
In addition to trophies in all the categories, the Moriah Fish & Game Club provided close to 300 hot dogs.
Tournament organizer Jacob Gilbo was pleased by the turnout considering there was a chance that rain would result in fewer participants coming.
Both the Port Henry and Moriah Fish & Game Clubs are looking for new members. Like many local clubs of this nature, their activities are social as well as provide assistance to the local communities.
For additional information call: Port Henry — 518-546-3622; Mineville — 518-942-3084.