Outdoors

AMVETS trout derby still a hit at 50

THOMPSONTOWN -- Jim Barnes was there when the initial trout was caught at the first AMVETS Post 122 Youth Trout Derby in Thompsontown.

And Barnes was there Saturday, April 8, for the 50th rendition of the annual derby. Barnes was recognized with a commemorative plaque by the AMVETS for his 50 years of service in helping organize the popular event.

"Jim is very devoted to doing the trout derby for the kids," Vice President of AMVETS Post 122, Herb Lightner, said. "He was the one who originally started it. From where it started to where it's gone is a huge accomplishment for Mr. Barnes."

Despite the chilly weather, nearly 200 kids showed up on the banks of the Delaware Creek. Many more family and friends were in attendance, helping the young anglers bait their hooks, cast and reel in rainbow, brook and palomino trout.

"Just the amount of young people who showed an interest in fishing and their enthusiasm," Lightner said of the highlight of the day. "When I pulled into the lot, it was 29 degrees. To have that many youngsters fighting through the cold and having a good time was awesome."

With more than 1,000 trout stocked by the Lost Creek and Juniata Trout clubs, there were plenty of fish to catch.

Winners this year included:

Girls Age 6 and Under

Anna Zendt - 59 ½ inches

Calliana Kramer - 58 ¼ inches

Girls Age 7 to 9

Ella Devore - 59 ½ inches

Cabrielle Rice - 55 ¾ inches

Girls Age 10 to 12

Neviah Foose - 57 ¾ inches

Oliva Dressler - 57 ¾ inches

Girls Special -- Biggest Fish

Blair Bargo

Boys Age 6 and Under

Waylon Kessler - 58 ¼ inches

Logan Diem - 51 1/2 inches

Boys Age 7 to 9

Robert Eaton Jr. - 62 ¼ inches

Carter Cherry - 59 ½ inches

Boys Age 10 to 12

Cole Musser - 56 inches

Lelean Owens - 54 inches

Boys Special -- Biggest Fish

Rylan Price