A fishing extravaganza took place Saturday evening at Parque de Vida as anglers of all ages turned out to catch the 150-plus rainbow trout dumped into the pond earlier that day.
It was the 10th annual Fishing Derby, co-sponsored by the Dolores River Anglers and city of Cortez. Brad Waltman with the Dolores River Anglers said the group is promoting fly fishing and giving back to the community with the free event.
This year’s derby winner was on the younger end. Leah Gillette, age 2, caught a 12-inch-long trout, earning her a Moana fishing rod and pink tackle box for the biggest fish of the evening.
This particular weekend was chosen because it was Colorado Free Fishing Weekend, two days when Coloradans can fish without purchasing a license. Waltman said they try to time the derby so it coincides with the weekend.
The fish deposited in the pond were donated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. According to Waltman, more than 150 trout were available for the catching, 20 of which were longer than 20 inches.
Only the rainbow trout counted for the derby – participants weren’t supposed to catch the bluegills already residing in the pond.
Catch-and-release fishing was not permitted either. People could either keep the trout for themselves, or give them to a fish-lover on hand.
Earlier in the day, the Dolores River Anglers led a fishing class attended by about 15 people. Waltman said they seek to promote fly-fishing as a sport, and help people realize that it can be accessible.
In addition to the fishing rod and tackle box awarded to Gillette, the event organizers had a variety of swag to give out, including walking sticks donated by Dixie Gray along with monetary donations by the WildEdge Brewing Collective and Main Street Brewery and Restaurant.
