Despite the chilly spring air, the 44th Annual Parkersburg Fishing Derby drew in hundreds of eager young anglers and their families on Saturday. Held at both City Park and Southwood Park, the derby brought together the community in a celebration of outdoor fun, family bonding, and of course—fishing.
Open to children ages 3 to 14, the event offered many kids their first taste of casting a line in search of “the big one.” With help from parents, grandparents, and older siblings, kids tied on lures, baited hooks, and learned how to fish—all while building memories that will last a lifetime.
A Turnout That Surpassed Expectations
Despite morning temperatures in the upper 30s to low 40s, participation was strong. According to Kela West of the Wood County Recreation Commission, around 250 kids pre-registered, and over 100 more signed up the morning of the event.
“In total, we had about 500 to 600 people across both parks,” West said. “The weather was cold and cloudy, but thankfully not windy or rainy—which made for great fishing conditions.”
Community Support and School Spirit
The event saw strong community involvement, including help from the Parkersburg High School Big Reds and the Parkersburg South Patriots football teams. The players interacted with kids, offering encouragement and creating excitement just by being there.
“There’s a lot of community support behind this,” said Bill Vincent, Director of Wood County Recreation. “It’s great to see families and volunteers come together for something positive.”
First-Time Fishers, Lifelong Lessons
Families came out with the goal of sharing their love of fishing with the next generation. Parkersburg resident Phil Kupfner brought his young granddaughters, Willow and Virginia, to try out their new fishing poles.
“I want them to fall in love with this—something they can do for life and keep out of trouble,” he said.
For Crystal Ambrose and her 9-year-old daughter Adalynn from Williamstown, fishing is already a favorite pastime.
“She just loves being outdoors and the chance to catch something,” Ambrose said. Adalynn got a tug on her line but wasn’t able to land the fish. When asked what her favorite part of fishing was, she smiled and said, “Catching!”
Building Traditions
Mandy Eisenbarth and her 10-year-old son Cohen Watson were finally able to make it out to the derby this year.
“We always wanted to come, but we were usually busy,” Eisenbarth said. “This year we finally made it.”
Although they didn’t catch anything, Cohen was just happy to be there. “I like to fish,” he said. “I just don’t get to do it very much.”
Big Catches and Big Smiles
At Southwood Park, even with some ongoing construction, organizers made sure conditions were safe and accessible. Kids fished from all around the pond, and a few managed to land impressive catches.
Three-year-old Brooks Richards proudly caught a fish and even kissed it after it was measured—his mom Michaela called it the highlight of his day.
Thirteen-year-old Xavier Powell caught one of the biggest fish of the day—a 15½-inch trout. “Things were slow, but I love being outside,” he said. “We come every year, catch a few fish, cook them, and enjoy it together.”
More Than Just a Derby
Organizers said the day was about more than fishing—it was about connection. Learning to fish teaches patience, responsibility, and respect for nature.
“It’s about being together and enjoying life,” Vincent said. “When you know how to fish, you gain something you’ll carry forever.”
