'Gone Fishing' During Coronavirus, Youth Fishing Derby Returns

BEDFORD, NY — For the organizers of the Bedford Recreation Department's 21st Annual Fishing Derby at Lake Marie, 2020 will forever be known as the one that got away, but this year, the event is moving forward hook, line and sinker.

The fishing program in Bedford Hills Memorial Park for kids up to 15-years-old will once again take place on May 23, from noon to 3 p.m. The event is open to both first time and expert anglers. Volunteers from the Sportsman Club of Northern Westchester will be available to show the inexperienced the ins and outs of baiting hooks and telling fishermen’s tall tales.

Prizes donated by the Bedford Hills Neighborhood Association will be awarded during the derby in a variety of categories, not all of which include catching a fish. Bait will be provided, but attendees are expected to bring their own fishing poles.

Admission is $5 for each young angler participating in the event. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

In order to avoid unnecessarily opening a whole can of worms, participants are asked to register for the event no later than May 21.

Online registration for the derby’s return from the deep is available here. For more information, get the Bedford Recreation and Parks Department on the line at 914-666-7004.