CHICAGO (WLS) — This weekend saw the hosting of an annual contest. At its core, the Fishing Derby provided a chance for children to relish nature and have loads of fun.
The derby happened Saturday morning at the McKinley Park Lagoon on Chicago’s Southwest Side.
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More than a hundred children made their way to the annual Fishing Derby, casting their lines into the McKinley Park Lagoon.
“You can just put out your fishing rod, and if you have a button fishing rod, you can just press the button and then you can get a fish,” said Jake Esenberg, a 9-year-old participant.
Steve Demitro, is the founder of the event, which is now on its seventh year.
“There is nothing quite like a child experiencing that first bite on the line, the excitement you see in their eyes,” shared Demitro. “Words alone don’t capture it, and that’s the experience we aim to provide.”
The event is meant to expose families to nature and welcome fishers of all levels.
Chicago police officers also joined in on the fun.
“My CAPs team is present today, primarily to ensure everyone’s safety, but also to engage kids and see they have a great time,” stated CPD 9th District Commander Joe Mark.
For Bryan Esenberg and his son, Jake, also 9, attending this event has become a tradition. When ABC7 caught up with them, they had already caught their 63rd fish of the day.
“Wax worms are the trick, if you can plop it, it’s about feel,” Bryan Esenberg remarked. “So with Jake, I’m not catching them; he’s developed that feel. He’s casting and catching.”
They are building memories that they say will last a lifetime.
“I that’s what makes it important,” Bryan Esenberg said. “How do I live in the city and still have experiences outdoor with my son? I had that opportunity with my dad and grandfather, so I tried to do that with my son.”
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