It was a beautiful day Sunday for the kids fishing derby in Indian Mountain Lake, with 73 children participating.

The day before the lake was stocked with 400 pounds of fish from Big Brown Fish Hatchery. Families helped fill buckets with trout, pickerel, palomino, perch and sunnies in preparation for the derby.

Board member and fishing committee liaison Scott Zupnik said, “This is important for the kids to spend time with their family, friends and neighbors. Lots of people are here to help and give a sense of community and pride in the community.”

Six stations were set up around the lake to measure and weigh the fish. Within a minute of starting, the first fish of the day was caught. Prizes were awarded for first fish, smallest fish, largest trout (in length) and the most fish. There were three age categories for the prizes: 1-6 years old, 7-11 years old and 12-15 years old.

Prizes up for grabs included a $100 Domino’s gift card and gift cards in varying amounts from local business sponsors.

The IML Fishing Committee and 18 community volunteers made it a special day for the kids. Fishing poles were available if needed and everyone was provided with worms. Pat Wagner had the slimy job of handing out worms. She said, “I love fishing. I love to see the kids learning about fishing, that’s our future.”

Belita Webb manned the grill, cooking up hot dogs and supplying the kids with chips and water at no cost.

The fun-filled day was made possible by donations from local businesses, community members, volunteers and the members of the fishing committee.

Fishing derby winners

Largest fish (length) - Peyton Guess (ages 1-6); Matthew Allem (ages 7-11); Adam Ziolkiewicz (ages 12-15).

Smallest fish (length) - Jack Tresslar (1-6); Matthew Allem (7-11); Kieran Weaver (12-15).

Most Fish - Jaxson Frank (1-6); Matthew Allem (7-11); Kieran Weaver (12-15).