Easter Izaak Walton Kids’ Fishing Tournament

Photos & Story by UseppaGin

 Kids back and forth up and down the dock either holding a rod with the fish they caught or the shrimp they were using to catch the next one. Grownups were equally busy cheering the lucky ones, consoling the others, baiting lines, netting a catch, and just having old-fashioned fun.

Captain Ken sets the standards. Hands are raised taking the good sportsman Fisherman’s Oath before the first fish is caught. Resident Manager Donald Beckstead measured fish, helped put bait on a line, and when necessary helped a new fisherkid reel in a catch. Sheepshead, Ladyfish, a Flounder and more were all caught and released.

Then in an hour it was over.

Trophies were awarded for Most Fish, Biggest and Smallest Fish, First Fish, and Last Fish. A Master’s Prize was awarded to the best older fisherkid, and the Izaak Walton Hat Prize went to the child best exemplifying the Izaak Walton spirit of good sportsmanship. There were Blue Ribbons and candy for everyone … except the grownups. They got smiles, big ones and memories to take home.