On Saturday, August 26, 2007 Bayside Anglers Group Ltd. hosted its 13th Annual Snapper Derby at Bayside Marina. Neighborhood kids were invited to come and experience classic Little Neck Bay fishing. BAG was able to introduce well over 100 local kids (and their families) to the joys of catch and release fishing available right in their own backyard.

After a brief lesson by BAG members, kids were in hot pursuit of their finned quarry with loaner rods provided by the DEC, and using bait generously provided by The Angler party boat of Howard Beach. The fish were playing hard to get, but there was action, and some of our junior sharpies managed to get 2 or 3 fish over the rail. When fishing slowed, kids were energized by our Master of Ceremonies Glen Oberwiler challenging them with some prizes and giveaways provided by Eagle Claw hooks, Frabill Corporation, Pure Fishing, Gary Yamamoto baits, Plano Corp., Rattle Trap Co, Top Brass, TTI-Blakemore Fishing Group and Phase II Lures, and some were purchased through the generous support of The Swedish Princess charter boat of Port Washington, The Angler party boat of Howard Beach. When the fish started biting, the kids had eyes glued to their bobbers in anticipation of winning one of the 3 trophies awarded by BAG and presented by City Council Member and event supporter Tony Avella for the greatest number of fish caught. A free pizza lunch was generously donated by Bayside Marina, and then… right back to fishing!

Despite the unprecedented number of junior anglers, the day was a great success thanks in part to all the club members who attended and put their energies wherever it was needed, and to our comrades in the US Coast Guard Auxiliary who did a fine job keeping our registration table moving quickly and accurately, and keeping a roving watch offshore by boat. They provided us with some great pictures of the crowd from their unique “in the water” perspective. It’s also gratifying to have members of local civic groups like the Friends of Fort Totten, come to support us.

Check out the pictures of the sea of smiling faces and you will know what a success this event was. Thanks to all our sponsors, to our friends who helped, and especially to the kids in attendance whose smiles and spirit made it all worthwhile.

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