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Grand Prize Winner

Fletcher S. from Fort Worth, TX took home top honors from the July 14 Children’s Fishing Contest. Photos submitted.

   Sweetheart Days in Hackensack is a wonderful town celebration that included this weeks Hackensack Children’s Fishing Contest. It was definitely a hot day, but 71 children showed up to participate and they still caught 207 fish. We never want any accidents, but a shout out to the volunteers, First Responders, and EMT’s that responded to a youth in distress.  Happy to report that youth is fine.

Kids fishing contest ages 0-5

At the Hackensack Kid’s Fishing Contest Tuesday, July 14, 22 kids in the 0-5 year old group, caught and released 38 fish. Lily S. caught the largest fish (14.0 oz.); Truett V. reeled in the first fish; Jackson S. landed the most fish (9); and Henry R. hooked the smallest fish (3 inches).

   Another shout out to all the volunteers that put on the event every week. This week was especially challenging without the main coordinator unexpectedly available. It proved a challenge, but they were able to get it all done. They have my admiration and thanks.

Kids fishing contest ages 6-9

On July 14, Hackensack Kid’s Fishing Contest, 28 kids in the 6-9 year old group, caught and released 77 fish. Fletcher S. caught the largest fish (7.3 oz.); Melanie P. reeled in the first fish; Faye F. landed the most fish (18); and the smallest fish award went to Lynden A. (3 1/2 inches).

   We will host the Hackensack Chapter of the Izaak Walton League again this year on July 21 and August 4. They are working with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the ‘Get the Lead Out’ program. They are inviting you to bring any amount of lead tackle and turn it in. In exchange, you will receive a small package of lead-free tackle. The goal is to put less lead into our lakes, and learn why. Our contest has been lead-free (prizes) for 4 years, with special thanks to the MN Pollution Control Agency.

Kids fishing contest ages 10-15

In the 10-15 year old group, Tuesday, July 14, 21 kids caught and released 92 fish. Liam V. hooked the largest fish (24 oz.); the first fish was caught by William M.; Ely P. caught the most fish (49) and the smallest fish (3 1/8 inches) was landed by Baile C.

   The hot dog sponsor this week was Lakes Area Powersports in Walker, MN (lakesareapowersports.com). Find all the powersports, marine, and outdoor power equipment you need at Lakes Area Powersports.

Minnow Racing Winner

Evelyn A. from Des Moines, IA was last week’s minnow racing champion.

   Visit our Facebook page to view the weekly photos. You can search Facebook for “Hackensack Children’s Fishing Contest” and click on the Photo Album link on Facebook. Once on the photos page, you can select Album and go to the week you would like to look at

Casting Contest Winner

Emily K. from Hackensack took home top honors in the casting contest.

   If you are interested in helping as a volunteer or in sponsoring our contest next year, contact Bill Kennedy at (218) 838-9468 or [email protected].

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