A fun-filled day of fishing was enjoyed by over a hundred kids and their families at the Pembroke Waterfront on Saturday August 12, 2023. The annual Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Derby, organized by the Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), brought together Officers and Auxiliary, community volunteers, and generous sponsors to make this event possible.
The young anglers showed their skills and enthusiasm in the catch and release derby, where they had a chance to reel in some fish from the beautiful Ottawa River. Even the rain could not dampen their spirits or their smiles.
The event was supported by Fishing Forever, a non-profit organization that funds fishing, conservation, and education projects across Canada. Other sponsors included the City of Pembroke, Pembroke Police Service Board, the Police Association of Ontario, Canadian Tire, The Pembroke Mall, Giant Tiger and Allan’s Bait and Tackle.
Fishing Forever chair Bob Izumi said that fishing is a great way to connect with kids and foster positive relationships. “I love to create opportunities for children and families to go fishing,” he said. “There is nothing that puts a smile on a kid’s face faster than catching a fish.”
(Written by Luke Notman)