Big Fish, Big Smiles and a Little Moss: Ashland Police Fishing Derby Reels In Community Spirit
ASHLAND — There were fish to catch, bicycles to win and a few impressive clumps of moss that, unfortunately for the young anglers hauling them ashore, did not qualify for a trophy.
Children and families gathered Saturday, Oct. 3, for the 16th annual Ashland Police Division Fishing Derby, enjoying an afternoon of friendly competition, free activities and community togetherness.
One young angler even landed a catch that will give future participants something to fish for.
Jace Finley caught a 23-inch bass, taking first place in the boys’ ages 7–11 division. According to the account of the event, the catch broke the record for the largest bass ever pulled from the pond.
And this fish story came with a measurement to back it up.
Police Chief Curt Dorsey said 66 children registered for the derby, with 107 fish registered during the event. Officers made their rounds measuring catches as children competed for new bicycles awarded to first-place winners in each boys’ and girls’ age category. Trophies were also available for first through third place.
“Today was probably the best year we’ve had,” Dorsey said. “This was awesome.”
This year’s derby combined fishing with a R.O.C.K. Reach Out Cops and Kids event, expanding the fun through a partnership with Ashland County Juvenile Court and grant funding from the Department of Youth Services.
For children, that meant plenty to do between casts: carnival games, inflatables, bounce houses, prizes and snow cones. Food from the Dine and Dash food truck was covered, too. Bait, drinks, food and activities were free, giving families an afternoon together without having to reach for their wallets.
“Everything was free, and I think a lot of parents were shocked by that,” Dorsey said.
Whether children were reeling in bass, catching bluegill or helping relocate some pond vegetation, there was something to keep them smiling.
The moss, meanwhile, put up a respectable showing, although organizers may need a separate category before anyone can ride home on a bicycle for catching it.
Lawrence White, community work service officer with the juvenile probation office, said the court welcomed the opportunity to help support an event that provides positive activities for young people.
White said Judge Karen DeSanto Kellogg places a strong emphasis on connecting youth with services and opportunities that improve their lives. Grant funding helped the partners expand this year’s event beyond fishing.
He praised the variety of activities, noting that children could take a break from the pond and enjoy games, food and inflatables.
The day also reflected the support of local businesses. Dorsey credited Ball Bounce and Sport for donating prizes over several years and Walmart for donating the bicycles.
First-place finishers for the largest fish in each division were:
Ages 3–6, boys: Danny Fields, 8¼-inch bluegill.
Ages 3–6, girls: Auburn Fields, 8-inch bluegill.
Ages 7–11, boys: Jace Finley, 23-inch bass.
Ages 7–11, girls: Willow Cunningham, 19-inch bass.
Ages 12–17, boys: Aiden Sisson, 14½-inch bass.
Ages 12–17, girls: Emily Baker, 8½-inch bluegill.
Emmie Arnett led the most-fish standings with nine catches. Lilly Fultz topped the smallest-fish category with a 5-inch bluegill, proof that a catch does not have to be enormous to earn a little recognition.
Dorsey thanked the community for continuing to support the derby and said the department hopes to maintain this year’s expanded activities.
“We appreciate everyone coming out year after year, and we love doing it,” he said. “So, we’re going to keep it going.”
By the end of the afternoon, the derby had delivered more than fish and prizes. It gave children time with their families, friendly encounters with local officers and a chance to enjoy a community that showed up for them.
Some went home with bicycles. Others went home with fishing stories.
And a few learned that when something heavy tugs on the line, it is wise to hold off on celebrating until the moss clears.
