The first day of the Castleton Sports Club Annual Fishing Derby took place on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Ryken’s Pond.
The two day event has been taking place since 1989 with generations of anglers taking part in the event over the years.
Kevin White who has been President of the Club for the last 10 years and been part of the club for 25 years said it’s something the attracts visitors from Cobourg to Campbellford each year.
“We provide an opportunity for children to come out and fish and they usually all catch a fish.”
Prizes are awarded for the biggest catch of the day for both Saturday and Sunday.
On Saturday the biggest cast was just over seven pounds with 188 anglers taking part.
The pond is stocked with 300 rainbow trout a year and George Ryken and his family graciously allow the event each year.
“It’s quite an experience for anybody to watch a child, four, five or six-years-old and their bringing in a fish as long as their arm. The look in their face is just incredible and it’s very rewarding.”
There is also a barbeque and prize (bicycle) for both days for the largest fish caught along with other great prizes in a raffle.
Money raised goes towards the Castleton Sports Club which operates a facility that has four soccer pitches and two ball diamonds. In the winter time, weather depending there are two outdoor rinks installed, free to anyone who wishes to use them.
“It’s a small community with a big heart and a big opportunity for growth for children and families to enjoy the outdoors.”
The event takes place again tomorrow north of Castleton starting at 8 a.m. and ending at 3 p.m. for youths 14 and under.
Sponsors for the event are Pro Advantage, Battlefield Equipment, Amherst Crane and Concrete Pumping and Lucky Strike.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
