The Eagle

Gone fishin’

Sumpter Fishing Derby ‘reels in’ huge crowd of young anglers

The 2026 Sumpter Township Kids Fishing Derby drew a crowd of 500 children and adults to Banotai Park last Saturday for a morning full of fun and, of course, fishing.

Organized by the Township Parks and Recreation Department, junior anglers from ages 8 to 17 were welcome to compete for nine awards including the largest and smallest fish in each of three age groups and the most fish caught for each age group. Multiple awards and prizes were awarded at noon.

The biggest fish of the day measured an impressive 16.5 inches and was caught by an 11-year-old angler.

Those younger than 15 had to have a parent accompany them at the derby. Rules allowed adults to assist children with activities, but the youngster had to be the one to hook and reel in the fish to receive credit for the catch.

The free event didn’t require a fishing license as it aligned with the Michigan Free Fishing Weekend across the state.

The Wayne County Fishing Derby set for the same date at Waterford Bend Park in Northville was cancelled due to high water conditions. That annual event is sponsored in cooperation with the Vietnam Veterans of America, Plymouth/Canton Chapter 528.