The Boothbay Region Fish & Game Association’s Annual Kids’ Ice Fishing Derby was held on Wily Pond on Saturday, Feb. 18 and the weather and the fish were more than cooperative.

Approximately 20 kids and as many adults turned out for the event. Sunny skies, light winds, and temperatures in the low 40s made for pleasant conditions despite some slush that formed on top of the ice as the morning progressed.

Fifteen brook trout were entered in the contest by the 2 pm deadline. First place, good for $50 cash, went to Jake Kelley for a 14 ¾” fish. Second place, for $25 cash, went to Andrew Meader for his 14 ½-incher, and Dylan Plummer finished third and received $10 cash for his 14-inch trout. Other contestants who entered fish included Robert Shaw, Keegan Murray, Isaac Lewis, Henry Currier, Makayla Pinkham, Hunter Ryan, Laura and CJ Dean, and Emery Lorrain.

Fish & Game Club members handed out a number of nice door prizes, including rod and reel outfits, ice traps, and tackle boxes at the awards ceremony in the clubhouse.

Kids and adults alike enjoyed the hot dogs grilled and steamed by Timber Brown in the clubhouse kitchen, sandwiches provided by Amy Shaw, hot chocolate, coffee and sodas, and a variety of cookies, chips, and other treats.

The Club would like to extend special thanks to those who volunteered their time and talents to ensure the success of the event, including Timber Brown and Michelle Bryer, John Splaine, Keith Royal, Ken Anderson, Dennis Blackman and Susan Flaherty.

The Kids’ Ice Fishing Derby, which is free and open to all children under the age of 16, has become a popular winter event and the club is planning on holding it again next February.