Fishing Derby Returns This Weekend

The annual tradition of young anglers coming to Echo Lake Park is set to continue tomorrow with the Ninth Annual Baxter's Fishing Derby. 

Drawing anywhere from 75 to 200 participants Director of Community Relations Steven Fecher said the event provides a unique experience for the children who take part. "It's different than what most people think of as active recreation," he said. "It's kind of a passive kind."

The event is open for children between 5 and 14-years-old and gives them a chance to enjoy a day at the park while hoping to bring in a fish to remember the day. 

Fecher said the lake should be fully stocked for the competition thanks to work by the state and the Lake Restoration Committee. Close to 700 trout, catfish and bass are estimated to be swimming around the lake thanks to the infusion of fish. 

Fecher said the only thing competitors have to bring to the event is their rod and reel. The rest of the day is provided by donations from a variety of places including Bob and Barbara Baxter whose family the event is named after. Stop & Shop also provides hot dogs and snacks for the day. He also said participants will get bracelets for the Rob's Best Friend Fund and the Palmetto Animal Assisted Life Services in South Carolina. 

Weather permitting registration starts at 8:15 and the event is scheduled to run between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Fecher said trophies will be awarded for smallest fish, largest fish and most fish caught over three age groups. 

Fecher said he did not think a little rain would be enough to delay the event but there is a rain date of Sunday just in case. 

For more information about the Rob's Best Friend program check out their website.