Forest Lake saw nearly 200 residents – mostly kids – along its shore and in boats during the annual Fishing Derby, sponsored by Methuen Fire Department Local 1691.
During the free event, firefighters grilled up hamburgers and hot dogs while East District City Councilor Ron Marsan and wife Dianne scooped out apple crisp and distributed apple juice and popcorn for all to enjoy.
After a child caught their “big one that didn’t get away,” they eagerly ran to the pavilion to have their fish sized up for the contest. Winners were presented trophies and gift cards.
Here are the winners:
First Fish Caught: Jack Giarrusso, for his 12½-inch bass.
Biggest Bass: A tie between Eli Ortega and Harper Benoit, who both caught 13-inchers.
Biggest (Rainbow) Trout and Biggest Fish Overall: Joezias Taveras, for his 14-inch monster!
Congratulations to all the winners!
-
- Jack Giarrusso proudly holds the trophy he won for catching the first fish of the day, a 12½-inch bass!
-
- Firefighter John Blais assists Joezias Taveras, 7, show off his 14-inch catch (which won the award for Biggest Fish) while little brother Jovanii, 4, looks on. ML photos by Nancy Reardon
-
- Anthony Rosanio holds the 12-inch bass that son Tripp reeled in.
-
- Methuen Fire Department Local 1691 volunteered their time to serve up hamburgers and hot dogs to the hungry fishing families.
-
- Carter Le, 7, and sister Jade, 5, joined their grandfather Kevin Moriarty for a day of fishing fun.
-
- Chase Minicucci, 7, followed by his “Papa” Joe Steele, hands over his catch to Firefighter Ian Brinson to have it sized up.
-
- Fishing is hard work so Ben Collier, 6, and Gannon Nicolosi, 8, decided it was time to take a break.
