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   The Jeff Maranda Memorial Youth Fishing Challenge was held on June 28, 2025, on Lake Washburn. The annual event aims to spark youth interest in the sport of fishing while also helping to reduce the Northern Pike population on the lake.

   This year’s challenge was hosted on the lakefront of Pat and Julie Maranda, once again providing the perfect setting for the festivities.

   More than 20 Lake Washburn community volunteers assisted with setup and activities throughout the day. Young anglers enjoyed minnow races, casting lessons, and ice cream floats as their catches were weighed and entered into the competition. A total of 33 participants, ages 4 to 16, caught an impressive 150 fish—tipping the scales at over 238 pounds. That’s a lot of pike!

   Among the crowd of over 100 attendees, 49 children received gift bags containing educational materials, courtesy of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Cass County. All young participants were entered into the Fishing Challenge Raffle and went home with exciting prizes and fun memories.

   Fishing poles, tackle boxes, and other prizes were awarded for the heaviest catches across five age categories. This year’s Grand Prize winners were 15-year-old Ethan Hellerman and 11-year-old Louella Gass, who each took home an insulated Clam Ice Tent.

   The Jeff Maranda Memorial Youth Fishing Challenge is made possible through the support of generous contributors, including:

  •  Event Hosts: Pat and Julie Maranda

  •  Lake Washburn Association

  •  Reed’s Family Outfitters – Walker, MN

  •  Land O’ Lakes Marine – Outing, MN

  •  Lake Country Food and Gas – Emily, MN

  •  Redding’s Sports and Spirits – Emily, MN

  •  Holiday Stationstores

  •  Cass County, MN

  •  Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

  •  Hallie and Steve DeVries

  •  Brad Freisz

  •  John Clausen

  •  Lake Washburn Community Event Volunteers

   Year after year, the event is met with good weather, growing crowds, and enthusiastic participation. It continues to exceed expectations—fostering a love of fishing in the next generation while strengthening the bonds of the Lake Washburn community. A win-win for all.

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