Get your fishing poles ready! The 44th annual Parkersburg Fishing Derby is casting off this Saturday, promising a morning full of fun, excitement, and fish for local kids and their families.
Organized by the Wood County Recreation Commission and backed by numerous community sponsors, the derby takes place at City Park and Southwood Park in Parkersburg. This cherished event first began thanks to the efforts of the late Mayor Alvin K. Smith, and it continues to bring smiles to young anglers every spring.
“We’re hoping for good weather,” said Bill Vincent, director of the Recreation Commission. “It was really big last year — and we’re expecting another great turnout.”
Open to Kids Ages 3 to 14
Children between the ages of 3 and 14 are invited to participate. The derby runs from 9 a.m. to noon, and kids will compete in three age groups:
- Ages 3–6
- Ages 7–10
- Ages 11–14
Trophies will be awarded to the top three winners in each category. There are also special prizes for the biggest catches — including a trophy for anyone who lands the elusive golden trout at either park.
Stocked Ponds, Special Prizes
On Wednesday, Mountaineer Trout Farm stocked the ponds with a total of 800 pounds of fish — 400 pounds in each park. Among them is one golden trout per location, which has become something of a legend at the derby. It’s been three years since anyone caught one on derby day, but the challenge keeps the excitement high.
Kids who pre-register online will be entered into a drawing for a lifetime West Virginia hunting and fishing license, a prize that adds even more incentive to sign up early. Last year, Gavyn Davis at Southwood was the lucky winner.
Support from the Community
Volunteers from across the community help make the derby a success each year. Even the Parkersburg High School and Parkersburg South High School football teams show up to lend a hand — helping kids bait hooks, cast lines, and reel in their catch.
Administrative Assistant Kela West summed it up best:
“The fishing derby is more than just a chance to reel in a big one. It’s a fun way for kids to learn patience, connect with nature, enjoy simple moments, and make lasting memories with family and the community.”
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Highlights from 2024
Last year saw around 300 young participants, with some impressive catches:
- Southwood Park
- Grand Champion: Aliyah Burgess – 17½ inch trout
- Largest non-trout: Kaden Dillon – 32½ inch carp
- City Park
- Grand Champion: Lucas Richards – 17-inch trout
- Largest non-trout: Kaden Wright – 23⅝ inch carp
More Than Just Fishing
The derby is just one of many events organized by the Wood County Recreation Commission, which offers more than a dozen programs each year. These include:
- Elementary & small fry basketball
- Winter volleyball
- Indoor & summer pickleball
- Elementary track
- Free summer camps
- Tennis and teeball
- The West Virginia Honey Festival
- The Harvest Moon Festival
Whether your child is an experienced angler or just starting out, the Parkersburg Fishing Derby is a great way to spend the day outdoors, surrounded by nature and community spirit. Don’t miss out — grab your gear, bring the family, and make some memories at this beloved local tradition!
