Kids win at annual fishing derby

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Rebecca Blossom
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Whether it's for the sport, for the prizes, or just to enjoy the sunshine, Team McChord families keep coming back to the Annual Top III Children's Fishing Derby at Carter Lake on JBLM.

The derby, which has been held for more than a decade, offers children aged one to 14 years old, split into four age groups, the opportunity to learn how to fish and display their skills in the spirit of friendly competition.

This year's Children's Fishing Derby, April 18, saw more than 400 people arrive to take part in the event.

Each age group weighed their catches for the chance to win prizes such as rods, reels, gift cards, and other fishing gear.

"We've been to the derby two years now, and last year my daughter won a brand new fishing rod of her own," said Staff Sgt. Dustin Volk, 62nd Maintenance Squadron aerospace ground equipment inspection and repair lead. "The kids have a great time, and they get to learn something useful."

Families without fishing experience were welcome to join the competition as well.

"If the parents don't know how to fish, we have fishing guides and mentors on hand to assist them in making this a successful event for the family," said Senior Master Sgt. Scott Winchell, 62nd Aerial Port Squadron passenger service superintendent, who helped lead the Fishing Derby committee this year.

"I've been attending the derby for the last eight years, and this year, like every year, we have a lot of parents whose spouses are deployed, enjoying a day out with their children," said Winchell. "We have a lot of first timers out on the lake, too."

Tom Harris, retired Air Force command chief, is far from a first timer.

"I've been back here more times than I can remember. I bring the grandkids each year," said Harris. "It's important to teach them useful skills like fishing, and it's something they can enjoy for the rest of their lives. I'm 86 years old and I still enjoy it."

Harris, who helps coordinate the stocking of fish in lakes on JBLM, believes the derby is good for both the service members and their children.

"I know a few people who work in the state and can get these lakes stocked with fish, so I get with them to fill the lakes up. And why wouldn't I? Our warriors need as much recreation as they can get, and if I can help with that, I'm happy to," said Harris.

Carter Lake was stocked with an estimated 1,250 rainbow trout of varying size for the event, giving children plenty of chances to catch their own fish.

"The parents get to watch the excitement on the faces of their children as they fight to bring in that first catch," said Winchell. "It's always a great moment."

A variety of organizations contributed to the derby this year, including the McChord Key Spouses, the 5/6 Club, the First Sergeants Council, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The USO contributed as well, serving lunch for free to the families who participated.

"A great committee helped put this together this year and really helped make the event a success," said Winchell.

Of the 400 people at Carter Lake for the event, approximately 190 children participated.

"We've received a lot of gratitude," said Winchell. "It's a great event for the kids and for the parents, and it's a healthy way to spend time outdoors with family and friends working on a skillset and hobby that could last a lifetime."