Captree State Park To Host Snapper And Crab Fishing Derby

WEST BABYLON, NY — Captree State Park's annual Snapper and Crab Fishing Derby will take place later this summer, the state announced Thursday.

The derby is slated for Saturday, Aug. 16, and Sunday, Aug. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is sponsored by Captree Fuel, Bait and Tackle and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Long Island Region.

According to a release, the derby is held to encourage children 16 and younger to discover and enjoy fishing and crabbing.

There are numerous fishing locations throughout Captree State Park and the tournament is free with a standard $8 vehicle use fee.

Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment, or rent or buy it at Captree Fuel, Bait and Tackle. The shop will be open for sales and rentals from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on both days of the tournament.

The last weigh-in will take place at 2 p.m. Both the snappers and crabs will be weighed alive and live release is encouraged.

Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third heaviest fish in each age category, including 7 years and younger; 8 to 12 years old and 13 to 16 years old; and to the top three heaviest crabs overall, both Saturday and Sunday.

The ceremony, which will begin at 2:30 pm. and feature raffles and giveaways. Winners must be present to receive their prize.

For more information, call Captree State Park at 631-669-0449 or Captree Fuel, Bait and Tackle at 631-587-3430.