Record numbers go fish to benefit veterans

BELFAST – The cars rolled into the American Legion parking lot by late afternoon Saturday, the occupants loaded down with fish and memories.

The 15th annual Sons of the American Legion Fishing Derby drew a record crowd of participants this year and proved a boon to Maine’s veterans.

“It’s a fun time for families, and the best thing is all the money goes to Maine’s veterans,” said organizer Joe Cooper. “It’s been a great derby.”

This was the first year the derby expanded to waters beyond the borders of Waldo County. The organizers opened the derby to lakes and ponds within a 46-mile radius of Belfast.

That allowed fishermen from Knox, Penobscot, Somerset and Hancock counties to tackle familiar waters closer to home and still compete for the prizes, which consisted of cash awards as well as all types of outdoor gear. Area retailers donated the prizes.

“We’re thankful for everyone who contributed and helped make this a success,” said Cooper.

The largest fish caught during the daylong derby was a 6-pound, 8-ounce small-mouth bass hooked by David Bunker. The adult winners were: togue, Cliff Larrabee, 3 pounds, 7 ounces; salmon, Dalton Wilbur, 1 pound, 1 ounce; brook trout, David Crooker, 1 pound; large-mouth bass, Paul Jameson, 6 pounds, 6 ounces; small-mouth bass, Paul Jasienowski, 4 pounds; pickerel, John Degraff, 3 pounds, 5 ounces; perch, Wesley Butler, 5 ounces.

Winners in the children’s division were: salmon, Brodie Sylvia, 1 pound, 6 ounces; brown trout, Jared Holland, 8 ounces; small-mouth bass, Houston Mathis, 3 pounds, 4 ounces; large-mouth bass, Christine Sweetland, 5 pounds, 9 ounces; pickerel, Houston Mathis, 3 pounds, 3 ounces; perch, Ben Bailey, 6 ounces.