Cops connect with kids at Cops and Kids Fishing Derby

DAVID LECLAIR 

With the weather not promising Saturday, it was a hot and sticky morning as young anglers of all experience levels gathered at Victoria Park in Belleville to participate in the 17th annual Cops and Kids Fishing Derby.  

Rods with reels were provided for the kids for keeps that needed fishing gear.  

Belleville Police Sgt. Pat Comeau started organizing the Cops and Kids Fishing Derby back in 2007.

Pre-Covid, the derby attracted more than 400 participants.

“We’re building ourselves back up,” said Comeau.  

 This year, the popular derby was approximately 250 participants strong.

“I’m not concerned with the big numbers; I’m more concerned about kids smiling,” said Comeau along the shores of the Bay of Quinte.

At least 50 volunteers put forward their time and effort to help make the derby successful.

“I can’t do this event without all the volunteers,” he said.  

For the children, a free barbecue handed out lunch while other snacks, ice cream, and goodies were also on the menu.

Adults attending with their youngsters were encouraged to enjoy food at the cost of donations to help fund the derby and keep it an annual fun event.

“The donations go towards all the rods, reels, worms, trophies, along with the prizes and free lunch for the kids,” Comeau said.

“We also run ice derbies in the winter; as long as the ice is good, we try to do two ice fishing derbies a year.” 

Multiple sponsors set up various fun activity booths at the derby headquarters in Victoria Park.

Children attendees had the chance to make custom spinners, get their faces painted, and participate in a casting contest that awards a trophy to the furthest cast of the day.  

“Nothing yet, just some nibbles,” said Phil Mckenna as he baited his daughter Lilly’s hook, hoping Lilly could land a fish. Officers took measurements as fish got caught, documented their sizes, and then assisted in releasing the fish safely back into the Bay of Quinte.  

Conservation Officers also assisted with baiting hooks, taking off and identifying fish, and answering any curious questions the youngsters had during their morning on the bayside. 

 It was a very successful morning for youngster Jack Sarley who won two trophies for the most extended cast and the biggest fish for the under-seven age group.

“My favourite part of the day was winning the trophies,” said Sarley with a big smile while waiting in line with his dad for the participation prize.

All children attending received a prize for participation at the end of the event, which wrapped up in the early afternoon hours.