The Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment hosted its annual Kids, Cops and Canadian Tire Fishing Derby on Saturday, August 10, 2024. The event, held at the scenic Pembroke Waterfront, drew 80 enthusiastic young anglers to the Ottawa River for a day of fishing, fun, and community engagement.
Under mostly sunny skies, OPP officers, auxiliary officers, and dedicated community volunteers guided the children through the catch-and-release derby. The event, a highlight of the summer for many local families, provided an opportunity for kids to learn about fishing and the importance of conservation in a hands-on environment.
The derby was made possible through the generous support of Canadian Tire, alongside Fishing Forever, a not-for-profit organization committed to funding fishing, conservation, and education initiatives. Additional support came from local businesses and organizations, including Giant Tiger, The Pembroke UOV OPP Detachment Board, the Police Association of Ontario, the OPP Association, the OPP Youth Foundation, The Pembroke Mall, Allan’s Bait and Tackle, The Wholesale Club, and Renfrew County Crime Stoppers. This year’s trophies were generously sponsored by Dean Burchart of Royal Lepage Realty.
Bob Izumi, chair of Fishing Forever, highlighted the joy that fishing can bring to children. “There is nothing that puts a smile on a kid’s face faster than catching a fish,” said Izumi. “Fishing is one of the very best ways for parents and other adults to establish productive and healthy relationships with children.”
The event not only fostered a love for fishing among young participants but also strengthened the bonds between law enforcement and the community, making it a memorable day for all involved.
(Written by: Emma Butler)