A dandy day at Butler City Lake

 

“I caught one!” “Can I touch it?!” Excited shouts echoed across the lake as kids filled the banks for Saturday morning’s Kids Fishing Derby Tournament in Butler. Even if some young anglers didn’t get a single bite while others reeled them in left and right, spirits remained high. There was no shortage of encouragement as kids cheered each other on—whether the catch was a whopper or just a tiny nibble.

From 8:30 a.m. until noon, participants gave it their all in hopes of landing the biggest fish. (And yes, we can confirm there are fish in Butler City Lake—some of us just didn’t have much luck!)

But several young fishers reeled in some impressive catches:

Ages 6 & Under:

1st Place: Wade – 13 1/4 inches

2nd Place: Walker – 9 1/4 inches

3rd Place: Jesse – 8 1/2 inches

Ages 7–11:

1st Place: Jazmine – 13 1/2 inches

2nd Place: Alexis – 13 inches

3rd Place: Bentley – 11 inches

Ages 12–15:

1st Place: Camden with a huge 19 1/4-inch fish!

2nd Place: Camden – 13 inches

3rd Place: Brayden – 9 1/2 inches

Trophies and participation medals were generously donated by the Butler Police Department, with additional prizes including:

Free vanilla ice cream coupons from Sonic

One-day pool passes from the City of Butler

Moo-tropolis passes from Udderly Nuts

A free fishing pole courtesy of the Elks Lodge

After the awards were handed out, everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch of hot dogs and burgers, lovingly prepared by the Children’s Guardians.

A heartfelt thank you to all who helped make this event possible—and for helping bring back the joy of the Kids Fishing Derby Tournament! Here’s to many more years of casting lines, making memories, and reeling in the fun.    -Staff photos and story