COMMERCE CITY — More than 500 anglers and onlookers attended the seventh annual Fishing Frenzy, a free kids fishing derby Saturday, April 12, at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.
Nearly 250 children ages 3 to 15 competed in two fishing derbies.
Junior angler Ashlyn Sander won the first derby of the day with a 16-inch largemouth bass.
Not to be outdone, angler Ty Till won the second derby and reeled in the biggest catch of the day with an 18-inch largemouth bass.
The prize for smallest fish caught went to Charlotte Hite at 6 and three-quarter inches, with Aden Schimpt taking home the smallest fish prize in the second derby at 13 and three-quarter inches.
Elija Blea and Atreyu Herrera tied for most fish caught, reeling in three each during the morning run, while Mark Shumaker and Josh Murphy tied for most fish caught with two each in the afternoon. All winners received a fishing pole, tackle box, and a $20 gift card donated by Bass Pro Shops.
Participants also had the chance to interact and learn skills from professional sportsmen. Professional staff members, Jim Cranmer and Sam Heckman, from the Bass Pro Shops Denver fishing team were on hand to help rig poles, tie hooks, and share insider fishing tips and secrets of the trade.
A favorite family-oriented event for seven years running, the Fishing Frenzy attracts 500 to 600 participants each year.
For more photos from the event, visit www.commercecitysentinel.com.