Heritage Lake 6th Annual Fishing Derby

The sign posted outside the Heritage Lake Clubhouse

One family's lessons in patience

This was the scene at Heritage Lake today when residents gathered to kick off the beginning of summer with the annual Fishing Derby.

Some people arrived as early as 5:30 in the morning to compete against each other for the prize for the biggest catch. Participants ranging from the young to the young at heart practice their skill. Even some furry and feathered friends joined in the fun. 

Some people have it all figured out

Only two anglers hooked anything. The grand prize winner of $100 was Joe Barrett with a 1.1 lb whopper, the second prize of $50 was awarded to Noah Bixley with a 15 oz fish he caught, which was a nice way to start his birthday. The third prize of $25 was raffled off to Caleb Royer.  Despite the few bites, there were still plenty of smiles and laughter to be found. Some blamed for June Gloom saying the fish would be more likely to bite after the sun came out. As one resident put it, "A bad day fishing is still better than a good day at work." To which I responded, "Unless of course you're on Deadliest Catch."

The event went until 8:00 AM at which time the Heritage Lake Master Association along with Valleywide Recreation served the participants a well earned pancake breakfast.

A little girl makes some new friends

I wonder if these guys smelled the pancakes.

Keeping a safe distance from the humans waving pointy sticks

Joe Barrett shows his certificate with his friends

Happy Birthday Noah!

Caleb high fives his little bro after winning the raffle drawing for third place