Mahaska County Conservation Holds Fishing Derby

From left to right: Abby Nunnikoven, Kaitlyn Ahrends and Spencer Held

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The Mahaska County Conservation Board once again held their annual Kids’ Fishing Derby at the Russell Wildlife Area on a sunny Saturday morning, June 2nd.

Anglers spread out among the many different ponds hoping to find just the right spot to pull in the biggest fish and, in some cases, the smallest.

Ryan McPherren once again took time out to volunteer to bait hooks and measure fish. Shortly after 10 am, Ryan had measured over 10 fish, with the most popular catch being the large mouth bass. Ryan said that his reason for volunteering was, “I’ve done it before and I’ve enjoyed it. I just like being outdoors and I like helping.”

Awards were given out for the “Biggest Fish” and the “Smallest Fish”. This year’s winners were Abby Nunnikoven that won the “Biggest Fish” plaque for catching a 16 in. gar. Two kids tied for the award for the “Smallest Fish”. Jacob Held and Kaitlyn Ahrends each caught a 5 in. bluegill for the prize. Congratulations!