Press release from Deep River Parks and Recreation

The Deep River Parks and Recreation Department hosted the 40th annual Deep River Fishing Derby at Plattwood Park on May 13. Many anglers tried their luck and utilized their skills in an effort to land a prized trout at the event.

A total of 18 fish were caught during the two hours of the derby, an annual event which is open to area youth aged 5 to 15. The pond was stocked with about 200 fish ranging from 13 to 23 inches. Prizes were awarded for the biggest catch in each of three age categories, with one prize also awarded for the biggest overall catch. The biggest catch of the day went to Charlotte Farrell, who reeled in a 19 1/8-inch rainbow trout.

First place in the 12-15 age category was won by Ceser Pazz with a 16-inch finish. Pazz took first place on a tiebreaker based on the fish’s weight.

For the 9-11 age category, Kyle Aronson claimed first place by catching a 19-inch fish. Adam O’Brien finished second with a 15 1/4-inch trout. William Spearrin landed a 15-inch finish to take third place.

Alex Buestan reeled in an 18-inch trout to finish in first place for the 5-8 age category. Ian Aupin placed second with a 17-inch rainbow trout. Charlotte Brainerd landed a 16-inch trout to finish third.

To celebrate the 40th year of the Deep River Fishing Derby, the pond was also stocked with one super-large 23-inch trout. The big fish was tagged, and any lucky angler who caught it during the derby would get a special prize—a gift certificate and saltwater rod and reel—courtesy of Ted's Bait and Tackle in Old Saybrook. However, this big fish was not caught during the derby, and so it might still be swimming around in the pond.