Fun and Fish for all at Somers Rotary Club Fishing Derby

As the daffodils popped through the soil and the sound of spring peepers echoed in the background, signs of spring welcomed the young anglers and their families to Wetherell Farm Pond in Somers, as the next generation of anglers tried to catch “the big one” during the Somers Rotary Club’s annual Fishing Derby on Saturday.

Prizes of trophies, fishing rods and tackle boxes lined the trophy case, all awaiting the children in each age category who caught the first fish of the day, the biggest fish and most fish. More than 100 young anglers took part in the competition.

 After the fish were caught, the hungry anglers and their families were treated to hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, sodas, coffee and doughnuts all provided by the Somers Rotary Club.

“This was a great event for families to come out, spend time together and allow them to enjoy the sport of fishing,” said Somers Rotary member Ed Giza. “The kids caught more than 30 fish within the first half hour of the event. We stocked the pond with 180 trout, including rainbow, golden and brown to make sure no one walked away empty handed."

The event’s namesake is the late Paul Monstello, a longstanding and dedicated Somers Rotarian along with an avid fisherman and hunter. 

"He was an all around outdoorsman," said Giza. "So what a better way to honor his name than to have a fishing derby. Though the weather turned rainy within the first few minutes, we all just had a great time. It was a good family day."

In addition to the annual Somers Rotary Fishing Derby for young anglers, the club has introduced a new Fishing Day for Seniors. 

"On April 30, anyone 63 years and older is more than welcome to come out and fish for the day," said Giza.  "Prizes will not be given and the fisherman have to bring their own poles and bait, but the day is sure to bring big catches and give the seniors an opportunity to fish for some good trout."