It was a nice day on May 12 for the Andover Fish and Game Club’s (AF&G) 23rd Annual Kids’ Spring Trout Fishing Derby. Forty-four kids made it out, armed with their fishing poles. The Derby took place, as usual, along the Highland Lake Channel by the AF&G Clubhouse. Free hot dogs and refreshments were enjoyed by the kids and their families while they fished.

The Channel was stocked the night before with 500 trout, half of which were provided by the NH Fish and Game Department. The public stocking had a good turnout of kids who, equipped with a bucket of fish, helped Fish and Game Conservation Officer Towne release the slippery beasts into the water. Thank you, as always, to the NH Fish and Game.

            An impressive 110 trout, plus 20 other types of fish, were reeled in by the eager young anglers. After the big event, 25 lucky prizes and 5 trophies were awarded to lucky participants. Every kid received a participation ribbon.

            The trophy winners were as follows: Longest trout at 14 ¾ inches to Samuel Navoy, second longest trout at 13 ¾ inches to Beau Dow, third longest trout at 13 ⅛ inches to William Huntoon, total length of trout to Cullen Webster, and longest fish in another category, an 11-inch hornpout caught by Kayla Adams.

            The Andover Fish and Game Club thanks everyone who donated their time and supplies to make this event a successful and fun learning experience for the kids. Particular thanks to J & J Market of Andover for providing the refreshments.