MINERVA - Residents of Minerva celebrated their town July 3 with the annual Minerva Day fishing derby held at Minerva Lake. Anglers as well as finny friends were out in force that Saturday morning.
The fish taken from Minerva Lake that day came in all sizes (but mostly small) and a few shapes, consistent with pumpkinseed sunfish and yellow perch. The day was warm and friendly, and so were the young anglers who participated.
Kids from age four to 15 came out to try their luck in the clean waters of Minerva Lake. A triple-beam balance of flawless accuracy was used to weigh the fish after they were hooked. Following the recording of these weights, the fish were released back into the waters of the lake, only to occasionally be caught again. Winners in three age levels won fine fishing tackle, including fishing poles.
The derby, sponsored by the Minerva Parks and Recreation Committee, was a success and, although not everyone who wet their worms caught a fish, they all had a great time.
Fishing derby prize results are as follows:
Ages seven and under
First prize: Conner McDermott
Second prize: Chase Quintin
Third prize: Seth Varney
Ages 8 - 11
First prize: Kaleb Davie'
Second prize: Brandon Baker
Third prize: Ryan McDermott
Ages 12 - 16
First prize: Lucas Ten Eyck
Second prize: Jacob Galusha
Tinniest fish award
Abby Seaman
Prettiest fish award
Aaron Fresca
Most fish caught and monster of the day awards
Alex Ruzbacki
Competition was indeed fierce among these anglers, in a friendly sort of way. The monster fish, a half-pound pumpkinseed of exceeding beauty, caught by Ruzbacki was admired and gently returned to the waters.
Several individuals and organizations deserve thanks for helping the fishing derby to be as successful as it was. Thanks to the Minerva Service Organization for donating the funds needed to supply the fishing tackle and poles and to John and Wanda Callihan for donating the substantial prize for the day's monster fish. Tackle and poles were purchased at Murdie's General Store in Minerva. Thanks also to Minerva Central School for letting one of its balances be used to weigh the fish caught in this contest. A special thanks to Cameron Dubay for providing lifeguard services for the derby.
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