Fishing Derby Looking To Reel In Young Anglers In Long Valley

LONG VALLEY, NJ — Join neighbors, friends and family for the annual Fishing Derby for Washington Township and Califon Borough residents, which is coming up on June 11.

Hosted by Washington Township Policeman’s Benevolent Association Local #301 this year's derby will take place on Sunday, June 11 from 9 a.m. to noon at Kohler's Pond on Rock Road.

The event is broken down into three age groups:

• 5 years old and under
• 6 to 9 years old
• 10 to 12 years old

As in previous years, all participants will receive awards for the most fish, the biggest fish, the smallest fish, and the most unusual catch.

Lunch will be available for all attendees and will consist of hot dogs and beverages, police said.

There is no prior registration needed to participate. For any questions contact Cpl. Derek Heymer at dheymer@wtpdmorris.org or at (908)-876-3232 Ext. 1414.

The Fishing Derby has been a sponsored event for several years, but it had to take a break for two years due to COVID-19, and Heymer was excited to bring it back to the township last year.

The derby was a success last year, with more than 60 local youths participating in the community event.

According to event organizers, the three winning fish of the day last year were a 23-inch and 21-inch catfish, as well as an 11-inch bass, and an additional couple hundred fish were pulled out of the pond.