The Region 7 Broome County Sportsman Federation held its annual Willard J. Holmes Kids Free Fishing Derby on Sept. 12 at Cole Park in Harpursville, N.Y.

A total of 108 children registered for the event, and approximately 90 fish were caught, making for an enjoyable day on the water.
Participants competed in two age categories, with prizes awarded for the largest fish caught in each division. In the 10-and-under age category, 9-year-old Trenton Wurstner took home the honors for the largest fish with an impressive 14-inch bass. In the 11-to-15 age category, 13-year-old Ashlyn Beamer, of Brackney, Pennsylvania, earned top honors by catching a 14.5-inch bass.
The event and the federation seek to provide opportunities to introduce children to fishing, encourage outdoor recreation, and build an appreciation for the outdoors among the next generation of anglers.


